There are just times when your menstrual cycle falls on the days when it feels the most inconvenient. But luckily, there is some food to get periods early. And while there is some debate on their effectiveness, it’s certainly worth a shot when you need that time of the month to come a little earlier. Is It Possible For Food to Induce Periods? Many have been curious about inducing periods, from scientists to nutrition experts to regular people just getting through shark week. In spite of that interest, there is little scientific research on whether food can or cannot induce periods. Thus, many people tend to look at period triggers as a menstrual myth. However, there is much anecdotal evidence and cultural practices that seem to point to the possibility of inducing your period. This depends on your body, though, so it’s best to take the information with a grain of salt. Why Try to Bring About Your Period? For some, it can seem like an odd job to induce your period when it usually entails mood swings and cramps. If anything, people may prefer to delay their menstrual cycle or omit it altogether. But in reality, it can be good to get your period early. Here are some reasons that may resonate with you: To regulate your period: Some people experience amenorrhea, a condition where you consistently miss your menstrual cycle throughout the year. Other chronic conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis also hinder your reproductive health. Trying period-inducing activities and food may help with those circumstances. To schedule your period pains: Attending an important event that you would prefer Aunt Flo to miss? Hoping to go swimming without the worries of the Red Sea seeping through? Inducing your period may help you get that time of the month over with and go pad-free during that critical week of your life. To free up time to exercise: It’s recommended to exercise during your period week to improve your mood. However, if you prefer to rest when it’s your time of the month, turn to period-inducing food. Plus, you get to gain three to five pounds during your period. You can work and burn through them when you finally get around to working out after. Food to Get Your Periods Early As a prelude, it’s crucial to have a balanced diet. Not getting enough vitamins, minerals and nutrients can delay your period. In the event of missing your menstruation, consult a doctor or dietician regarding the matter. There are certain food ingredients that people have preached as a period-inducing snack or drink. 1. Papaya Papaya is a rich source of Vitamin C, the most important carotenoid, with a reputation for inducing your period. While there is no direct evidence, papaya can supposedly help with regulating menstrual flow. Research also points to the fruit’s anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. 2. Citrus Citrus fruits deserve a mention when it comes to vitamin C. Try to incorporate a few slices of lemon, oranges, and limes into your dishes and drinks. You can also enjoy them as they are or with some salt. Doing so may lead to Aunt Flo coming a few days earlier than usual. 3. Raspberry Certain berries like raspberry can help with treating PMS cramps and nausea. Some also use it as a uterine tonic to alleviate the pain experienced when in labor. Since it has quite an impact on your reproductive health, this ingredient is suggested to help with triggering your period. 4. Parsley Parsley is an infamous garnish, but there’s more to this plant than meets the eye. When steeped in a cup of hot water, you can brew a natural remedy tea packed with antioxidants. Parsley tea can serve as an emmenagogue for better menstrual flow and hormonal balance. 5. Ginger Drinking ginger tea is known in alternative medicine for removing throat swells. There is also a possibility that it can help with internal inflammation. Direct consumption of this root can help regulate your uterine muscles and trigger menstruation. 6. Beetroot A glass of beetroot juice is linked to easing up dysmenorrhea symptoms like painful uterus contractions. They are also high in iron and magnesium, which are essential for improving blood flow in the body. 7. Pineapple Pineapple is often associated with sexual health, specifically to detoxify one’s fluids and boost libido. It’s believed to improve blood flow in the body. This all-around fruit also fills up one-third of your recommended vitamin C intake, making it a reasonable contender regarding period-inducing food options. 8. Sesame Seeds A study finds sesame effective in inducing menstrual bleeding in spite of oligomenorrhea. This is a condition where you only have four to nine periods per year. Plus, if you do get your period, a blend of turmeric, boswellia and sesame can provide pain relief. 9. Spices Speaking of turmeric, food with a little more heat may be linked to getting your period early. If you have the opportunity, try to use more spices. Paprika seasoning for your meals and dashes of cinnamon on your beverages should work. You can also try incorporating cayenne together with ginger and lemon for the ultimate wellness shot.  10. Sugarcane Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar advises drinking sugarcane juice a week before menstruation. This is especially the case when they experience spotting. In the same post, she also details that it’s a fertility booster that can help with sperm quality and lactation. 11. Mango  Mango may seem less popular than citrus fruits and pineapple, but it also provides quite a bit of Vitamin C. Their sweetness also melds well together with chili powder and lime juice. Potentially get your period early and enjoy a sweet and spicy snack in the process. Reset Your Menstruation Rescheduling your period to even a day or week earlier may work, but there is no absolute guarantee. Try one of the food options above and let us know whether it works for you!

Recently there’s been a resurgence of interest in home births as an alternative to hospital deliveries. An at home birth, where a woman gives birth in the comfort of her own home with the assistance of a trained midwife or a qualified health care professional, offers a unique and intimate experience for expectant mothers.  The Benefits: Why Do Some People Opt For an At Home Birth? The decision to have a home birth is deeply personal, influenced by several factors reflecting an individual’s values, beliefs and preferences. While hospital births are a standard choice for many, a growing number of expectant parents are opting for the intimate and personal experience of giving birth at home.  In the United States, less than 1% of births occur at home, and 25% of these births are unplanned or unattended by a medical professional. Unplanned home births are associated with higher risks for the mother and baby compared to planned births. Here are some reasons why you may be considering a home birth: It’s Comfortable Home births provide a unique opportunity for mothers to labor and deliver in the comfort of their own space. The familiar surroundings can contribute to feelings of security and relaxation, which can positively impact the birthing experience  It’s Empowering Choosing a home birth often reflects a desire for increased control and autonomy over the birthing process. Some women feel empowered by actively participating in decision-making, choosing their birthing positions and creating a birthing environment that aligns with their values.  It’s Personalized A midwife is typically present at an at home birth, offering personalized and continuous care throughout the process. Building a trusting relationship with a midwife creates a connection, individualized support and attention that may be challenging to achieve in a hospital setting. There’s a Reduced Need for Medical Interventions For those seeking a more natural and unmedicated birthing experience, home births can be an attractive option. There's more emphasis on minimal medical interventions. This approach aligns with the belief that childbirth is a natural process, and the body is well-equipped to handle it without unnecessary interventions.  Due to the nature of studies regarding home births vs. hospital births, women are very reluctant to participate, so there’s limited data on the subject. However, a 2015 study in Oregon — the state with the highest number of at home births — found that medical interventions were less common at home than in a hospital.  There’s More Freedom Home births allow for greater freedom during labor, giving mothers the flexibility to adopt positions that are most comfortable for them. The ability to choose water births, use birthing balls or move around freely can enhance the birth experience and contribute to overall satisfaction.  Family Can Be Involved Home births often encourage family members to actively participate, including partners and children. Including family members can create a supportive and emotionally rich environment, creating a sense of unity and shared joy.  There’s a Reduced Risk of Infections Hospitals can be environments where the risk of infections is higher. Giving birth at home may reduce exposure to potential pathogens, providing a more controlled and hygienic environment. It Involves Cultural and Spiritual Beliefs Cultural or spiritual beliefs may play a significant role in the decision to give birth at home. Some women find that the home setting allows for the incorporation of cultural rituals, ceremonies or spiritual practices that hold deep meaning for the birthing family.  Lower Stress Levels Being in a familiar and comfortable setting can contribute to lower stress levels during labor. The absence of the hustle and bustle of a hospital environment can create a more calming atmosphere, promoting a positive and memorable birthing experience.  A Shorter Recovery Time The recovery period is typically six to eight weeks, but some women find the transition from birth to postpartum recovery is smoother at home. Additionally, being in a familiar and supportive environment can contribute to a quicker recovery and a more positive postpartum experience.  What Are the Risks? While home births can be a safe and satisfying option for low-risk pregnancies, it’s important to acknowledge the potential risks associated with delivering at home. You should make this decision after careful consideration and consultation with qualified health care professionals. Some of the potential risks include: Unforeseen Complications One of the main concerns with home births is the potential for unforeseen complications that may require urgent medical attention. While the majority of pregnancies progress smoothly — with many women only experiencing mild acid reflux — complications such as fetal distress, umbilical cord issues or maternal bleeding can arise suddenly and necessitate immediate intervention. Complications occur in approximately 8% of pregnancies and can be harmful if they’re left untreated.  Emergency Situations In the event of a medical emergency, like a sudden change in the mother’s or baby’s condition, there may be a delay in accessing emergency medical care. A quick emergency response is critical for ensuring the well-being of the mother and the baby.  Postpartum Hemorrhage Postpartum hemorrhage — excessive bleeding after childbirth — is a potential risk during any birth. While midwives are trained to manage this, the immediate availability of medical resources in a hospital setting can be crucial in severe cases. This condition is very rare but without medical intervention can be life-threatening.  Neonatal Resuscitation  Some babies require resuscitation immediately after birth due to various reasons, including breathing difficulties. While midwives are equipped to handle these situations, it's beneficial to have specialized equipment and expertise available. Transportation Delays In an emergency, the time it takes to transport the mother to a hospital could be a critical factor. Factors like distance to the hospital, weather conditions or traffic may impact how quickly one can access medical care. Limited Access to Pain Relief Lastly, home births may limit access to certain pain relief options available in hospitals, such as epidurals. While there are natural pain relief options, some may find labor challenging without additional pain management. Things to Consider While the idea of a home birth offers several benefits, it’s vital to weigh the potential risks and make informed decisions aligning with your preferences and circumstances. Risk assessment: While home births can be a safe option for low-risk pregnancies, it’s crucial to assess and manage potential risks. A qualified health care provider should conduct through prenatal screenings to ensure the mother and baby are suitable candidates for a home birth.  Emergency preparedness: Adequate planning for emergencies is essential in home births. A skilled midwife is prepared to handle complications. Additionally, they can make the decision to transfer the mother to a hospital if necessary. Postpartum support: Comprehensive postpartum care is essential. This care includes monitoring the health of the mother and baby, providing breastfeeding support and addressing any potential complications.  Is It the Right Choice? Home births offer an alternative approach to childbirth prioritizing the natural process and emotional well-being of the mother. However, multiple risks and considerations mean this option may not be suitable for every woman or every situation. It’s essential to communicate openly with health care providers to ensure a safe and satisfying home birth experience.

As a man, your risk of developing prostate-related issues increases as you age. That’s why medical professionals often recommend having your prostate checked if you are over 40 years old. However, long before then, you should already be taking active steps to reduce your risk factors so you can enter your golden years with one less worry. To that end, here are seven prostate health tips you should regularly follow before your 40th birthday.  1. Maintain a Healthy Weight Obesity is a known risk factor for many health issues, including prostate cancer. According to a study by the European Association for the Study of Obesity, every additional 3.9 inches on a man’s waist increases his risk of dying from prostate cancer by 7%.  That’s why it’s important to maintain a healthy weight based on your ideal body mass index (BMI), where you measure your height against your weight. A normal weight is a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9, whereas anything over 30 is considered obese.  2. Include More Vegetables in Everyday Meals  Vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy body. Many leafy greens, including spinach, arugula and kale, are low in calories yet contain high fiber and phytonutrients that can help keep your prostate healthy. Certain cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts are rich in antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.  More importantly, eating vegetables regularly supports healthy aging by helping delay the shortening of telomeres. These are the protective caps on DNA that shorten as you grow older. The cell dies once the body’s telomeres are gone, so eating foods that delay their reduction is crucial for aging gracefully.  3. Eat Less Red Meat  It’s like every time you’re looking at health tips, there’s always a recommendation about reducing red meat consumption. There’s a good reason for that — eating lots of red meat and processed meats increases your risk of developing cancer. A 2022 study published in the National Library of Medicine suggests increasing processed meats intake by 50 grams per day can result in a 4% higher risk of developing total prostate cancer.  Additionally, research by the American Cancer Society (ACS) found men diagnosed with prostate cancer have up to 20% lower risk of prematurely dying by replacing red meat with poultry.  4. Exercise Frequently Staying active and regularly exercising provides a ton of health benefits, including boosting brain health, strengthening muscles and reducing the risk of diseases. Simply walking or doing an equivalent exercise for three hours a week can result in an 86% lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.  The best part is you don't even have to hit the gym to get your workout done. Simple activities at home, like squats and lunges, can help exercise your lower body muscles and ensure proper circulation. If you’re iffy about sweating so much, try swimming. The water supports up to 75% of your body and provides a complete workout without you breaking a sweat.  6. Manage Your Stress  The older you get, the more you need to pay attention to your stress levels. While there is no direct correlation between prostate health and stress, being under chronic prolonged mental pressure can compromise your immune system, disrupting your body’s natural ability to heal. Plus, it increases your risk of chronic diseases. Learn to set aside time to destress. Whether that’s through meditation, quality sleep or just being around your loved ones, what’s important is that you take care of your mental health and ease daily pressures.  6. Have Regular Sex  Several studies show that frequent ejaculation may be beneficial to prostate health. One study found that men who ejaculated at least 21 times in a month had a 20% lower chance of prostate issues than men who only ejaculated at most seven times in the same period.  The reasoning behind this is quite straightforward — harmful carcinogens naturally build up in the prostate and regular ejaculation flushes them out. That’s the theory at least, but hey, if you ever needed a medical reason to have more frequent sex with your partner, there you go.  7. Quit Smoking Smoking is simply bad for your health. There are no ifs and buts about it. Most studies have yet to establish a direct link between smoking and prostate cancer. However, they do show that smokers have an increased risk of dying from prostate cancer.  Smoking is also linked to dozens of health issues, any of which can increase the amount of carcinogenic compounds in the body and weaken the immune system. As you get older, be mindful of actions that impact your health and consider going cold turkey on smoking.  Common Prostate Conditions Beyond following these prostate health tips, it’s equally important to understand the common conditions that can affect the prostate. The three most common culprits include:  Prostatitis: This inflammation of the prostate gland causes severe discomfort and a burning sensation when urinating. Prostatitis is often caused by bacteria, though there’s also a non-bacterial version, which is more difficult to treat as the symptoms vary.  Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): This enlargement of the prostate puts pressure on the bladder, making it difficult to urinate. BPH is noncancerous and usually not life-threatening, but it’s crucial to get proper treatment nonetheless.  Cancer: This malignant growth within the prostate can become more aggressive as the patient gets older, eventually spreading to other internal body systems. The ACS estimates over 299,000 new cases of prostate cancer in 2024.  Prostate Condition Symptoms  The prostate gland tends to grow larger with age. In your 20s and 30s, it’s about the size of a walnut. At 40, it might have grown to the size of an apricot and then a lemon by the time you clock 60. So, if you’re 50 or older and start to feel an enlargement down there, it might be a normal part of aging. Nevertheless, make sure to inform your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:  Frequent urination during the day Constantly feeling like you need to pee Having obstructed urine flow Feeling pain whenever you urinate or ejaculate  Needing to get up multiple times at night to pee Your doctor will perform the necessary diagnostic tests to determine the issue and discuss the next steps.  Protect Your Prostate  The reality is there’s no way to guarantee you won’t get a prostate-related issue. However, adhering to these prostate health tips may significantly lower your risk factors. As a bonus, these helpful recommendations will also improve your overall well-being. Keep these guidelines in mind and take action now to protect your prostate. 

Getting sick is never fun. You don’t feel like yourself and life has to pause until you recover. The good news is that you don’t have to wait around until the flu runs its course. Use this guide to learn how to recover from the flu and enjoy longer periods of robust health between fevers and stuffy noses. Watch for Flu Symptoms The flu — also known as influenza — has some typical symptoms but may not always exhibit the same signs when someone gets sick. Everyone must learn how the flu presents, which includes the following symptoms that last seven to 10 days: Lung inflammation (a wet cough) High fever Body aches Headaches Sore throat Stuffy nose People can easily manage these symptoms at home by waiting seven to 10 days until they resolve themselves. Those at higher risk due to age or preexisting conditions could experience complications if the virus overwhelms their immune systems. If you exhibit these symptoms and struggle to breathe or experience a fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit, contact your doctor or go to the emergency room. You may have other more complicated illnesses with flu-like symptoms that require medical attention. Start Your Journey to Recovery Regain control over your health using these tips to recover faster from the flu. You’ll give your body what it needs to fight the virus and heal itself in record time. 1. Get More Sleep Than Usual You might have heard a loved one recommend that you get some sleep when you’re sick. The kind advice has scientific backing. When you’re napping or sleeping through the night, your body uses your restored energy to repair and regulate inflammatory signaling, making your immune system more effective. It’s crucial to sleep as much as possible when you have the flu. Try taking an over-the-counter fever or congestion medication if your symptoms make you uncomfortable. If sleep is elusive even when you’re not sick, journal about your anxiety to release it from your mind. You might fall asleep more easily when your body is less stressed. 2. Drink Extra Water Enjoy a mug of tea or flavored water with extra electrolytes when you have the flu. Staying hydrated gives your body enough water to regulate your temperature, which could shorten the length of your fever. The average adult drinks 44 ounces of water daily, but you could increase your intake to aid your immune system in its fight against your fever. 3. Take Some Vitamins Although there isn’t a singular vitamin or mineral that eradicates the flu virus, you can eat a healthier diet to fortify your immune system when you’re sick. Research shows that vitamin D aids macrophages and T-cells people use to overcome viruses. Zinc can also limit a virus’s replication abilities when consumed after you get sick. Ask a loved one to help you find healthier foods if you’re already sick and can’t devote your typical time or energy to your research. You can always make a list to know what to eat the next time you catch the flu. Foods like carrots, broccoli and nuts are great places to start. Depending on your health history, you could also talk with your doctor about taking specific vitamin supplements. 4. Stay Warm Indoors and Out Wear a sweatshirt in bed and layer your jackets if you need to go outside while battling the flu. If you stay warm, you’ll improve your immune response by giving your body the heat it needs to maintain its energy. If you’re cold, it prioritizes warming your internal organs rather than maintaining your immune system. You could also increase your thermostat by one or two degrees if it wouldn’t affect your electricity bill very much. 5. Use a Humidifier Imagine stepping into a warm, dry room. You inhale a big breath and the thin air rakes up your nasal passages. Your imagination isn’t causing the sensation. Dry air irritates the nose by stealing its moisture and causing microscopic cracks. Your body responds by producing mucus to protect your airways. This might be helpful if you’re taking a winter stroll while you’re healthy, but it’s a challenge for anyone who’s already congested with influenza. If you can’t breathe through your nose, try hanging out or sleeping by a humidifier. It could make your congestion less intense if your home has dry air. Prevent Future Illnesses You won’t need to worry about getting sick if you use these tips to protect your health. See how you could integrate them with your daily routine to fortify your health in seemingly effortless ways. Wash Your Hands More Effectively You’re already washing your hands before making a meal and after using the restroom. How much effort do you put into scrubbing and what’s the temperature of the water? Follow expert-approved handwashing steps to wash bacteria and viruses away, like counting for 20 seconds or using high-quality soap. You’ll be less likely to get sick by touching your mouth or eyes afterward. Wear a Mask When Needed Washing your hands is great, but it’s not super effective if you’re breathing the same air as someone with the airborne versions of influenza. Check your state health department’s website to watch their seasonal flu tracker. If the reports of flu cases increase where you live, you can always wear a mask in public until the numbers start decreasing again. Get Your Vaccinations The flu vaccine is available for people older than six months of age. Research shows it reduces the odds of getting influenza between 40–60% and reduces symptom severity if you get the virus after your vaccination. Check with your doctor to get caught up on your vaccination history and get further protected with the annual flu shot. Study How to Recover From the Flu Battling the flu is a shared experience. You’ll get it occasionally throughout your life, but it doesn’t have to be severe or scary. Use these tips to recover from the flu and stay healthy more easily. Preventative measures and science-baked recovery strategies will make you feel your best and quickly bounce back from illnesses.

Wellness trends come and go, but some have roots in historic ingredients like charcoal. People have used it to better their health for centuries. Is charcoal toothpaste bad for you if it’s always been around? Check out the pros and cons before deciding if it’s the next addition to your dental routine. What Is Charcoal Toothpaste? Charcoal toothpaste is any toothpaste with activated charcoal as a primary ingredient. When decomposing plant remains burn, they turn into charcoal and become the powerful material known primarily as an energy source. Deactivating it by adding more oxygen transforms charcoal into a more absorbent material that purifies or detoxifies whatever it touches. Benefits of Charcoal Toothpaste Toothpaste manufacturers often add charcoal as a secondary product for people seeking dental help. These are the primary benefits you could enjoy if you decide to use it at least once a week. 1. It Whitens Teeth Researchers recently discovered that charcoal toothpaste whitens teeth as effectively as fluoride toothpaste with whitening ingredients. The purifying effects of the activated charcoal and abrasive texture scrub stains away with ease. People may try it if the ingredients in fluoride toothpaste aren’t as effective as they wanted. 2. It Freshens Your Breath You may occasionally have bad breath if you don’t brush your teeth daily. Bacteria builds up in your teeth, along the gumline and over your tongue. It’s what causes the foul odor that makes people reach for breath mints. Activated charcoal toothpaste assists with that challenge too. Charcoal is a naturally purifying substance due to its ability to bind with impurities. It acts like a sticky fly trap to the bacteria in your mouth, carrying it down the drain when you spit and rinse your toothbrush. Comparatively, toothpaste provides ingredients that fortify your teeth but don’t focus primarily on removing bacteria. 3. It Scrubs Plaque Away Plaque is the slimy substance that may coat your teeth when you wake up. It can fortify into a solid mass along the gumline if you don’t have a daily dental routine. It’s challenging to remove without dental tools, but charcoal can help. The abrasive material is tougher on plaque than smooth toothpaste, so you’ll scrub more of the plaque away by using charcoal toothpaste. Drawbacks to Brushing With Charcoal There are a few notable downsides to using charcoal toothpaste that you should consider before trying it. They may change your mind about the tools you collect to protect your dental health. 1. It Absorbs Medicines Doctors often recommend that their patients take prescriptions first thing in the morning or late at night. The side effects make one or the other better for the patient’s quality of life, but both options would require taking a prescription medication around the same time as a person would use charcoal toothpaste. Charcoal sits in the digestive system and absorbs ingested medications because it purifies whatever substance it’s in. The medicine never reaches the person’s bloodstream. It could prevent your body from processing your prescription medication if you accidentally swallowed some of the toothpaste. 2. It’s Rough on the Gums People can have sensitive gums for various reasons. They might have nausea during their pregnancy, which erodes the gums with potent stomach acid if the pregnant person vomits frequently. Individuals can also develop gum disease or have minimal gum development due to their genetics. Charcoal is an abrasive material. The larger granules will tear at the gumline even with gentle brush strokes. It may cause excessive bleeding if you already have gum issues. 3. It Could Cause Constipation Adults know not to swallow toothpaste, but sometimes it’s hard to spit all of it out. Regular toothpaste has ingredients that account for accidents like that. Activated charcoal is much different. If someone accidentally swallows their charcoal toothpaste, it could cause constipation by absorbing the liquid in the colon. Your stool may also turn black, but that’s more common when people swallow things like charcoal beverages. Best Charcoal Toothpaste Options These are some of the most popular charcoal toothpaste options available to consumers. See what they could do for your dental health if you’re interested in trying it. Colgate Optic White Toothpaste With Charcoal Colgate is a well-known dental hygiene brand. They have numerous toothpaste products available for various health benefits, including whitening teeth with charcoal. The cool mint flavor may remind you of your previous toothpaste choices, while the fluoride strengthens your enamel. This is a great option for anyone who wants to use charcoal toothpaste long-term. The affordable price includes two tubes, so you won’t run out anytime soon. $11.93 from Amazon Burt’s Bees Charcoal + Whitening Toothpaste Try an all-natural charcoal toothpaste by opting for Burt’s Bees. The brand, known for organic lip balms and lotions, has a charcoal dental hygiene line with a subtle mint flavor. It has thousands of positive reviews for everything from its effectiveness to the brand’s commitment to never testing products on animals. It could align with your cruelty-free or vegan lifestyle and dental health goals. $14.91 from Amazon Sensodyne Charcoal Toothpaste for Whitening Sensitive Teeth You might be familiar with Sensodyne if your dentist has ever recommended a specialized toothpaste for your sensitive teeth. The brand makes different types of toothpaste for people who have weakened gums or experience sharp pain when they brush with cold water. The company’s charcoal product still sticks to its 24/7 sensitivity protection promise by using smaller granules. This deal includes a pack of three that are equally good at whitening and strengthening teeth. It’s an excellent place to start if you already rely on brands like Sensodyne to make your mouth more comfortable. $20.99 from Amazon Is Charcoal Toothpaste Bad for You? Once you’ve weighed your options and potentially talked with your doctor, you’ll know if charcoal toothpaste is bad for you. It could eliminate your bad breath and whiten your teeth if you haven’t had much luck with traditional products. Consider the risks before making an educated purchase the next time you visit the dental hygiene aisle at your local grocery store.

People often describe pregnancy as one of the most beautiful times in your life. While it may seem that way looking back on it, you’re probably not feeling too glamorous right now. Backaches, exhaustion and the constant need to use the restroom are likely already starting to get old, but one symptom is one of the most frustrating of them all. What is morning sickness and how can you manage it? How Typical Is Morning Sickness? As many as seven in 10 pregnancies will cause morning sickness, so it’s a practically universal experience. Hopefully, you’ll fall into the 30% that don’t experience it — you should know by the time you’re about six to eight weeks pregnant, which is when morning sickness is most likely to appear. It should wrap up by 16–20 weeks, but there’s always the chance it could last the whole 39 weeks. There’s also a rarer, more severe form of morning sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), which affects less than 11% of people. While the milder form of this symptom consists of nausea that sometimes leads to vomiting, HG will almost always cause vomiting will likely last until your pregnancy is over. What Is Morning Sickness? According to the American Pregnancy Association, morning sickness is when you feel nauseous during your first trimester. As scientists have recently discovered, the influx of hormones your body produces is often the culprit — specifically a protein called GDF15 within the placenta. It began as an evolutionary benefit that warned the brain of foods that could harbor infectious organisms, but now, it can make your favorite foods seem stomach-turning. However, they do note that many factors can lead to morning sickness. Even though “morning” is in the name, nausea could strike at any time of day. Doctors do believe it’s a sign that the placenta is developing healthily, so at least there’s one benefit, even if it drives you crazy. When Morning Sickness Becomes Hyperemesis Gravidarum As stated earlier, while morning sickness will cause nausea and occasional vomiting, HG will almost always lead to getting ill. It’s characterized by frequent enough vomiting that leads to extreme dehydration and weight loss of at least five percent of your pre-pregnancy weight. You may also experience ketonemia, ketonuria or abnormal electrolyte levels. The National Library of Medicine currently lists higher levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) as the cause but notes that the data has yet to be consistent. Researchers also offer excess estrogen levels and gastroesophageal reflux disease as potential causes, but as is the case with hCG, more research is necessary. However, you’re more likely to develop it if someone else in your family had an HG diagnosis. How to Treat Morning Sickness at Home Feeling sick nearly every day can make your pregnancy a struggle. Luckily, many have come before you and discovered the following remedies to make your nausea easier to stomach. 1. Take Supplements While there are plenty of companies on the market that promise morning sickness relief, your doctor can help you find a supplement that’s safe for your body. Vitamin B6 is a common remedy, along with ginger tea, which you can make by slicing some of the root and steeping it in hot water. The longer you leave it, the stronger it’ll be, so remember to set a timer. 2. Avoid Trigger Foods The easiest way to dodge your morning sickness is to save your favorite but nausea-triggering foods until after the first trimester or you’ve given birth. One common trigger is fried and fatty foods — as yummy as they are, they stick around in your stomach for longer, which is a surefire way to make you feel sick. Warm meals can also be an issue if they have strong smells. According to TLC, other common triggers can include: Spicy foods Anything pungent, like garlic and onions Milk Coffee Citrus With milk, coffee and citrus, it can help to eat something before you consume them. 3. Keep Your Meals Small If you tend to feel sick after eating, try to eat frequent and smaller meals. Eating something large and nourishing does feel much more satisfying, but it could overwhelm your stomach. Bland snacks like crackers and pretzels can keep you full throughout the day without irritating your already sensitive digestive system. According to Ohio State University doctors, these foods can be your go-to easy meals: Popsicles Vegetables and chilled fruit Eggs Cereal Chicken Yogurt 4. Drink Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer If you don’t feel like making tea every time your morning sickness comes on, stock up on ginger beer or ale. Both contain gingerols and shogaols that have anti-inflammatory and nausea-fighting properties, making either beverage an excellent choice when your stomach starts turning. Even just the carbonation can help — you’d be surprised by how much a few big burps can do. Be cautious about which ginger ale you buy, though. The sugar and caffeine in some brands can make you feel even sicker, while others only contain ginger flavoring, so check the labels, and try to buy sugar- and caffeine-free versions. Ginger beers can have more ginger than ale, but again, it’s crucial to read the nutrition facts. Also, it’s often stronger than ginger ale, so you’ll either think it’s delicious if you love the taste or might find the soda form more palatable. 5. Get Plenty of Rest Unsurprisingly, pregnancy makes you pretty tired, so you may need to adjust your sleep schedule to avoid morning sickness. Give yourself enough time in the morning so you don’t have to rush out of bed and start with something simple, like cereal or fruit. You’d probably also benefit from going to bed earlier. When to See a Professional for Help You should see your pregnancy care professional for advice if none of these remedies help and your symptoms sound more like hyperemesis gravidarum. While frequent sickness isn’t necessarily harmful, HG can cause dehydration and weight loss, which could lead to complications. What Is Morning Sickness? Your Guide to Tackling This Irritating Symptom No one likes feeling nauseous, but it’s particularly frustrating when you’re feeling that way every day along with being pregnant. Unfortunately, the answer to “What is morning sickness?” is it’s one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. You have many options for treating it at home, but be sure to talk to a specialist if you feel and get sick constantly — they’ll give you specific advice that can provide relief.