Did you know that around 78% of Americans will have had at least one cavity by the time they are 17, and the ADHA suggests that 80% of the population has gum disease? With such factors as the average American diet consisting of regular consumption of highly processed foods and improper oral hygiene and maintenance, it is no surprise that these statistics continue to climb.

Since your pearly whites are often the first thing people notice when they meet you, the condition of your teeth could further imply the condition of your overall health. Thankfully, if you have been feeling self-conscious about your mouth and the health of your teeth and gums, there is always no better time than now to do something about it.

Ultimately, postponing any oral health concerns could lead to greater problems down the line, which can most often be prevented with timely and proper care and forethought. In reality, poor oral health can cause health issues and pain if not addressed and have a negative impact on your confidence and self-esteem.

In this article, we will look at what you can do now to improve your oral health to help you boost your physical and mental well-being to avoid any problems arising in the near future.

No. 1

Use the Right Toothbrush and Change It Regularly

It is important to find the right toothbrush for you to use regularly and to replace it when you start noticing any degradation of the bristles. Choosing one that is gentle on the teeth and gums is ideal, as using a hard toothbrush can cause undue harm to your gums or enamel over time.

Typically, electric toothbrushes are recommended to give your mouth a deep, gentle, and more thorough clean. If you have one, don't forget to change your toothbrush head regularly, as they will not last forever. This should be done at least every three months or when the bristles begin to fray.

No. 2

Correct Any dental Issues

If you have any dental concerns, it is imperative that you visit your dentist to discuss them. Broken teeth, missing teeth, or misalignment can cause pain and discomfort and increase the risk of your oral health being compromised over time. When left unaddressed, these situations often cause much larger issues to form. For example, bits of food and debris in your mouth can become trapped, making brushing difficult, thereby leading to tooth decay or infection.

Talk to your dentist about their treatment options, including dental implants, braces, aligners, or other suggestions for improving your dental health and addressing any other dental concerns you may have. This can help you evaluate what changes you can make to improve how you care for your teeth and how to enhance their appearance.

No. 3

Remember Your Tongue

Plaque doesn't just build up on your teeth. It can build up on your tongue, too. Don't forget to include your tongue health in your oral care routine, and use a good mouthwash or a tongue scraper to help you remove any plaque that might build up. At the very minimum, a build-up on your tongue can cause bad breath; in more severe cases, it can lead to further complications. So, it is crucial that you do not neglect this part of your daily oral care routine.

No. 4

Floss

If you've ever lied to your dentist about flossing regularly, it may be time to find the right type of flossing device or method that works best for you. Whether you opt for regular floss, ready-made floss picks or accessories, interdental brushes, or even a water flosser, there are many options to choose from. Flossing every day is necessary for improving and maintaining your oral health and avoiding tooth decay.

No. 5

Eat for health

Naturally, what you consume must come into contact with your teeth and will affect the entire microbiome of your mouth. If you are consuming the average American diet, you will undoubtedly come into regular contact with refined carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods. These foods may damage your teeth and cause demineralization, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Sticking to a well-balanced and whole food diet consisting of nutrient, calcium, and fiber-dense fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and proteins is best for maintaining optimal oral health as they contain beneficial nutrients and minerals that help in preventing bacteria-causing plaque and tooth decay from forming.

Takeaways

Your mouth can say so much about your health before you even say a word. So, it is imperative that you maintain your oral health at all costs. While it may seem daunting over the course of a lifetime, interestingly, improving your oral health generally requires eating the right foods, finding the right oral products for your oral care, and committing to regular cleaning habits.

In addition, visiting your dentist regularly to ascertain the health of your teeth and gums is a detrimental part of the process of helping you make the right choices for your long-term oral health. Ultimately, in order to achieve lasting oral health, receiving timely oral maintenance and treatments when you need them is not only imperative but smart.

There is nothing more uncomfortable than having flat feet. Flat foot or flat feet, also known as fallen arches happen when the foot's arch is collapsed, and the whole foot is in direct contact with the ground.

A flat foot condition is at times a result of abnormal foot growth and happens to a person with no existent arch; it can also be genetic. The result: a flattened arch. Other flat foot causes include bone fractures, arthritis, and even torn tendons.

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Regardless of the reason for flatfoot, it can cause some serious foot pain. While many people with flat feet do not experience any pain or discomfort, some may require treatment. 

A study published in the National Library of Medicine for male and female adults compared the prevalence of flat foot. The results showed that the prevalence of flexible flat foot was 13.6% (for males-12.8%; for females-14.4%).  

In this article, we will explore various methods for treating flat feet, focusing on exercises, supportive footwear, and other at-home interventions.

Here are 10 tips to assist you in relieving your flat foot condition:

No. 1

Strengthen the arches of your feet with exercise

While experiencing pain as a result of flat foot, it is recommended to take it easy on yourself and avoid strenuous activities or being on your feet for extended periods of time.

For instance, if you are an athlete, take some time off and allow the pain to lessen for a couple of days before getting back to your exercise routine again. Avoid over-exerting yourself as you slowly get back into your routine. Also, stretch your feet before attempting any sort of exercise.

Once you feel that discomfort is manageable, it is good to strengthen the muscles in your feet regularly so you can alleviate the symptoms associated with flat feet.

Here are a few exercises that can be incorporated into your routine:

1. Arch Raises: Sit on a chair and place a towel roll or a small ball under your affected foot. Push your foot downward, keeping your heel on the ground, and try to lift the arch of your foot. Hold for a few seconds and repeat 10-15 times for both feet.

2. Toe Curls: Place a small towel on the floor and stand barefoot on it. Use your toes to scrunch and drag the towel toward you. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 times for both feet.

3. Calf Stretches: Stand facing a wall, placing your hands on the wall for support. Step one foot back, keeping both heels on the ground. Lean forward, bending your front knee while keeping your back leg straight. You should feel a stretch in your calf muscles. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times on each leg.

No. 2

Wear supporitive shoes

It is pretty straightforward: If you do not have the right arch support, your feet will experience some pain and discomfort. Most importantly, if you are on needing to be on your feet daily and for long periods of time, you will need to find an immediate solution for your discomfort.

The solution: Find orthopedic shoes for men and women online. Go for shoes that have robust arch support and removable insoles; shoes with low heels and wide toes can also assist.

Wearing proper footwear plays a significant role in managing flat feet. Follow these tips when selecting supportive footwear:

1. Arch Support: Look for shoes that have built-in arch support or consider using orthotic shoe inserts to provide adequate arch support. This helps to stabilize the feet and reduce stress on the arches.

2. Stability: Choose shoes with a firm heel counter and good lateral support. This provides stability and prevents excessive pronation, which can aggravate flat feet.

3. Cushioning: Opt for shoes with cushioning in the midsole to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet.

4. Proper Fit: Ensure that your shoes fit properly, with enough room in the toe box and a snug fit around the heel. Avoid shoes that are either too tight or too loose, as they can contribute to foot discomfort

No. 3

Wear orthotics

Orthotics, an artificial support or brace,  can aid with various kinds of foot issues, particularly flat foot. Consult with a podiatrist to get prescription orthotics, or you can obtain a pair of over-the-counter foot support devices that are suitable for you.

No. 4

Address weight concerns

Your weight plays a significant role in foot pain. Consider this; gravity contributes to the problem as well, and all of the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in your foot become weaker and weaker the more weight they have to support.

Someone who is overweight can develop flat foot because the weight causes their arches to collapse creating an issue that was not there to begin with. It becomes harder to address as time goes on.

If you already suffer from flat foot, being overweight can exacerbate the issue even further, resulting in worsening flat foot pain that goes on for years if not decades.

No. 5

Massage your feet

Nothing beats getting a relaxing massage particularly when your feet are in pain. There are numerous advantages to having your feet professionally massaged or massaging them yourself. Massages assist with joint and muscle relaxation and alleviate tension on the foot.

When you are experiencing foot pain, this will be the most enjoyable experience as it will promote blood circulation and ease inflammation. You will find fast relief, especially if you have a deep tissue massager on hand.

These massage guns are powerful handheld devices that you can use on yourself and on the go. They also have interchangeable attachments to target different areas and can be used on other parts of your body. So, it is a great investment.

No. 6

Soak your feet in Epsom salt

In addition to massages, Epsom salt baths will also help with chronic pain in the feet. Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate, which is a chemical compound made up of magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen.

Magnesium helps increase the availability of glucose in the blood, muscles, and brain thereby reducing the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. When used in a bath, the magnesium soaks into the skin.

After a good foot massage, soak your feet in Epsom salt and warm water to promote blood circulation and ease aches and soreness.

Keep in mind that ice can also be used, but for cases where you need first aid caused by injury. Ice will prevent swelling and inflammation, while heat will improve blood flow and relax your tissues.

No. 7

Try Hypericum

If you are experiencing intense pain–either sharp or shooting upwards along the nerve, Hypericum can help to alleviate it naturally. Hypericum, also known as St. John’s Wart is a homeopathic pain remedy that relieves shooting nerve pain and has been around since the Roman and Greek ages. They used it to treat wounds, relieve gastrointestinal and menstrual issues, depression, and even sciatica.

What is so wonderful about hypericum is that it can reduce inflammation in the feet. It is highly effective in treating injuries and easing aches and pain. It is also used to treat sensitive, nerve-rich areas such as fingers, toes, and the spine (especially the coccyx), which are predominant areas that experience shooting nerve pain. 

No. 8

Look into surgery if needed

To deal with extreme flat foot pain, surgery may prove to be the only choice. Joining your ankle or foot bones together, taking out bones, or even grafting bones to form an elevated arch are all viable options that you will need to consider if this is the route you must go. Consult with your podiatrist to know whether surgery is the right solution for your case.

No. 9

Avoid placing stress on your feet

Many people go about their lives wearing improper footwear for their foot type. This could cause further injury and strain to your flat foot condition. Take into account the size, shape, and form of your feet, and get quality-made and long-lasting footwear that is fully supportive.

Safeguard your feet by putting on soft slippers indoors and cushioned shoes outdoors and also avoid high heels or stilettos. Exerting stress on your feet while walking on hard surfaces can certainly cause undesirable pain.

In many cultures, it is normal to walk around barefoot, but did you know that it is much more comfortable to wear slippers and socks on a bare floor?

Additionally, the environment where you will be using your footwear is also a factor to consider. You will need to find supportive footwear that is suitable for different conditions or settings. For instance, if you plan to run, make sure that your running shoes are made specifically for running and to protect your feet from injury. 

Takeaways

Trying any number of these methods will surely help you find relief in time. With a bit of effort and research, you can manage flat foot pain and live an active and pain-free lifestyle.

As you have seen, there is no need to go on suffering from foot pain any longer because there are so many ways to find support for your flat foot condition. As with all health concerns, addressing the problem is the first step.

Once you decide to take active steps to learn effective methods to treat and manage your flat foot condition, you can then work on preventing negative outcomes from resurfacing.

In time, you will get to a place where you experience fewer undesirable symptoms because your attention is on the matter and your body will eventually respond in a positive way.

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When it comes to improving your health, many different options are available. You can eat healthy foods, exercise, and take supplements. You can also use essential oils and other natural remedies. A natural remedy that you may have never heard of is terpenes.

Terpenes are a diverse group of organic compounds found in plants and fruits. They are responsible for the unique scents and flavors of various plants. Terpenes may have beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic effects. Terpenes may also help improve mood and cognitive function.

What are terpenes, and what do they do?

Leaves and flowers of plants produce terpenes in special glands on their surface. When the plant is disturbed, these glands release the terpenes into the air, providing a defense against predators and pests. Terpenes are also responsible for the distinctive aromas of many fruits and spices. For instance, the fragrant oils giving cannabis its diversity are associated with the various types of terpenes found in each strain. 

The therapeutic effects of terpenes have been known for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, terpenes are used to treat various conditions, including pain, inflammation, and anxiety. In the United States, terpenes are increasingly used in natural and alternative medicines.

Four benefits of terpenes that you may not know about

Terpenes have been studied extensively in scientific literature over the past few decades. Here are four known benefits of terpenes:

01

The entourage effect

The entourage effect is one of the most exciting areas of study in terpenes. The entourage effect is the synergistic interaction between different compounds in cannabis that leads to improved therapeutic effects.

02

Anti-inflammatory effects

One of the most well-known benefits of terpenes is their anti-inflammatory effects. These effects might help treat conditions like arthritis and Crohn's disease.

Terpenes may reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, terpenes may have the ability to modulate the body's immune response.

03

Antioxidant effects

Another important benefit of terpenes is their ability to act as antioxidants. Terpenes scavenge damaging free radicals and help to protect cells from oxidative damage. This property of terpenes is thought to be responsible for many of the health benefits associated with them.

04

Analgesic effects

Terpenes might also have analgesic effects. This means that they may help to relieve pain. Terpenes work by modulating the body's pain response and inhibiting the activity of pain-inducing enzymes.

How to use terpenes to improve your health

You can use terpenes to improve your health in several ways; You can take them orally in foods or drinks, inhale them by vaping or aromatherapy, or apply them topically in creams. There are many different types of terpenes, each with its unique benefits. Here are some of the most popular terpenes and their effects: 

• Limonene - Limonene is a terpene found in many plants and fruits. It has various beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic effects.

• Myrcene - When consumed in large quantities, myrcene may sedate and impair locomotion. Researchers discovered that myrcene has anti-inflammatory properties in cells, as well as the ability to slow damage and disease progression. Myrcene's anti-inflammatory properties may aid in the killing of cancerous cells.

• Linalool - Linalool is a naturally occurring essential oil found in many plants and is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis and lavender. It has calming properties, making it helpful in treating depression and anxiety.

Takeaways

In closing, terpenes are generally safe for most people. However, some people may experience side effects such as skin irritation and headaches. If you experience any adverse effects, stop taking terpenes and speak to your healthcare provider. By developing your knowledge of the different terpenes available and their properties, you will be well-equipped when shopping for products that contain them. You will be able to identify the positive effects that you would like to experience and narrow down the most beneficial terpenes for you.

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Menopause is the medical term for the season in a woman's life when she goes through hormonal changes that cause her menstrual cycle to stop. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can happen at an earlier age such as your early 40s as well.

As women age, their ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing most of their estrogen, and they go into menopause. Menopausal symptoms can include hot flashes, mood swings and anxiety, loss of libido, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, and more.

There are different stages of menopause:

• Perimenopause is also referred to as “menopause transition,” and can occur up to 10 years before menopause actually begins.

• Menopause is the halt of a woman's menstrual cycle.

• Postmenopause is considered the 10 years that follow menopause.

The symptoms of menopause are different for everyone—some women have few or no symptoms, while others have many. It is important to address your symptoms so that you are able to identify ways that can help improve your quality of life during this transition. In this article, we will discuss several ways to treat and ease the symptoms of menopause, naturally.

01

Reduce stress

Stress is a major cause of many health problems. It can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression. It is important to reduce stress as it has a major impact on our overall health. Stress also has a negative effect on the way we feel and respond. It can manifest in the body as pain and inflammation.

There are many ways to reduce stress without having to resort to medication or expensive treatments and a plethora of side effects. Some of these ways include being attentive to the foods you are consuming, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and setting aside time for self-care and wellness practices.

02

Use food as medicine

We all know that a balanced diet is important for our health, but what is the ideal diet during menopause? To properly answer this question, we must first gain awareness that, to begin with (and since birth), we have been misguided in our understanding of the ideal diet. What has been considered a balanced diet is actually not; What we are eating is having detrimental effects on our health.

In light of this, we must relearn what nutrition is and learn how to use food as medicine. By focusing on nutrient-dense whole foods, fruits, and vegetables, we can discover that in terms of regulating our health, we are more in control than we think. We can create desirable health outcomes simply by being more educated about what we are eating.

A few key factors that have been found beneficial in treating menopause-related symptoms are: avoiding high-fat or sugary foods, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water every day. You should also avoid caffeine as there has been a link between caffeine intake and hot flashes.

03

Try cannabis to ease your symptoms

A great amount of research shows that cannabis has been found to be effective in treating symptoms of menopause. In a study published in the journal, Menopause, the top three menopause-related symptoms that women prefer cannabis to help with were sleep disturbance (67.4%), mood/anxiety (46.1%), and libido (30.4%).

When deciding on cannabis to treat menopausal symptoms, it is best to consider the different characteristics of products (e.g., mode of use, cannabinoid profile) all of which can yield different results and side effects.

For instance, a sativa strain will provide different effects and modes of relief than an indica strain. It is best to do your research and learn about the vast selection of cannabis products available. You can then decide on the best mode of use and cannabinoid profile for yourself, then go from there. Feel comfortable experimenting as this is the only way that you will discover what works best for you.

04

Stay active with regular exercise

Exercise is important for your health and mental well-being. It can dramatically help you feel better while you are going through menopause.

There are many benefits of exercise during menopause, including:

• Helps with weight loss and helps the body maintain muscle mass, which can be lost during menopause.

• Promotes a healthy heart and increases blood flow to the brain.

• Makes it easier to sleep better and have more energy throughout the day.

• Promotes mood stability, reduces anxiety, and improves memory.

Takeaways

Menopause can be a time of much stress, emotion, and change—all of which are already difficult to endure without hormonal factors involved. It is important to be attentive to the changes that your body is experiencing and to know that you can successfully manage your symptoms. As women, we are always evolving, so this is another season that we must embrace. In doing so, we can equip ourselves with the knowledge of how to best care for ourselves through this process.

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CBD has been proven effective in reducing inflammation and pain in various medical conditions, both chronic and acute. CBD is known to act by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate various body functions, including pain perception and inflammation. A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that CBD may be an effective treatment for various forms of pain, including:

• Arthritis pain

• Cancer-related pain

• Chronic back pain

• Neuropathic pain (nerve pain)

• Postoperative pain

• Some types of migraines and headaches

While in-depth research is necessary to confirm these findings, CBD may provide relief for many people who suffer from chronic pain. CBD is available in the market in various forms, including capsules, oils, tinctures, and topical creams. It can be ingested by dropping it under the tongue or applied topically to the affected area. For people who do not like the taste of CBD oil, capsules are also available.

Pros and cons

CBD oil vs. CBD cream

Choosing the best CBD product for pain relief can be tricky. Various CBD products are available in the market, and each has its pros and cons. This article will look at two of the most popular options: CBD oil and CBD cream. Both have their unique upsides and downsides. Here's a look at the key differences between CBD oil and CBD cream to help you decide which one is right for you.

CBD Oil

CBD oil is a popular choice for pain relief because it's easy to take and can be absorbed quickly by the body.

Pros:

• Can be taken orally or added to food or drink for easy ingestion

• Often used as a general wellness supplement

• Can be easily purchased online or in health food stores

• Dosage can be estimated with the help of a dropper

Cons:

• It may cause gastrointestinal discomfort when taken orally

• Not as effective topically for pain relief

• May need to bear the earthy taste 

CBD Cream

CBD cream is a great alternative to CBD oil if you're looking for something that can be applied topically. 

Pros:

• Can be applied directly to the skin for targeted pain relief

• Absorbs quickly and is non-greasy

• Often used in conjunction with other topical treatments such as heat or cold therapy

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than CBD oil

• Not as widely available as CBD oil

• Difficult to estimate the exact dosage 

Takeaways

So, which is better? That solely depends on your individual preferences. CBD oil may be the better option if you're looking for general wellness benefits. But if you're specifically looking for pain relief, CBD cream is likely to be more effective.

Find some great recommendations for both CBD oils and topical CBD products here: Shop CBD Oil for Depression from JustCBD

Whichever option you decide, make sure to do your research and buy from a reputable brand. Moreover, It is important to consider the dosage instructions on the product label carefully. Talk to your doctor or a certified cannabis specialist to see what they recommend for you.

The craze for cannabis-extracted health products has grown exponentially over the years. Much of the popularity of such products is due to their therapeutic properties. For example, CBD or cannabidiol is the second most prevalent compound in the cannabis plant. The growing efficacy, accessibility, and demand for cannabis products have made it a billion-dollar industry. 

CBD is said to have excellent medicinal properties, and it is mainly used in managing chronic pain and inflammation. CBD is even well accepted as a complementary medication in many conditions. Nowadays, people are using CBD capsules to relieve arthritis pain. 

Though there has not been much research regarding CBD and arthritis, available research points positively. So, let's see if CBD could help in inhibiting arthritis symptoms. But before we do that, let's dive into some information about what arthritis is exactly. 

CBD Capsules And Arthritis 

Arthritis is mainly described as the swelling and tenderness of joints. The symptoms of arthritis include pain and stiffness in joints, inflammation, and redness that worsens with age. Typically, arthritis affects the older population, but it could also be due to genetics or injury. The common kinds of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Can CBD Help With Arthritis? 

The use of CBD to treat chronic pain conditions has increased over the years. Reputed organizations such as the Arthritis Foundation have even released CBD guidelines for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Studies suggest CBD can help in reducing inflammation as well as in lowering the pain caused by arthritis. 

According to a 2006 controlled clinical trial on patients with rheumatoid arthritis, researchers found that patients' conditions improved after taking Sativex, a CBD-based medication. After 5 weeks of use, researchers concluded that Sativex improved pain conditions and helped lower inflammation. Moreover, the patients could also sleep peacefully due to less pain. 

A 2008 review study found that CBD can reduce pain and improve sleeping conditions without adverse side effects. In addition, a 2011 study on rats found that it helped reduce pain associated with inflammation in rats by affecting the pain receptors. Similarly, a 2016 study involving CBD gel and rats found that the gel can reduce swelling and joint pain without side effects. A 2017 study also claims it to be a safe and useful treatment plan for joint pains due to osteoarthritis. 

Even the National Centres for Complementary and Integrative Health says that CBD could be moderately helpful in managing chronic pain conditions. Another 2020 review reported that it could help manage chronic pain, improve sleep, and lower inflammation. However, according to the researchers, these effects are specific to certain conditions. 

Apart from this scientific evidence, much anecdotal evidence suggests using CBD may help with the symptoms of arthritis. For example, a 2019 national survey of the Arthritis Foundation involving 2,600 people found that 79% were using or have used CBD for arthritis.

Takeaways

As more studies and evidence mounts as to CBD’s effectiveness to treat pain and inflammation, more and more people are beginning to take the opportunity to try it for themselves and seek relief. The great news is that people are finding positive results, and it is helping them achieve a more natural approach to treating their health conditions such as arthritis. With so many CBD products now available on the market, you can be sure that you will find a use for this amazing natural substance that nature has provided for us.