Health News
The essential impact of sunlight on the human body
Sunlight and its influence on our well-being Its impact on the human circadian cycle is a particularly fascinating aspect. It is this cycle that decides when we feel energetic or tired. It is directly influenced by the intensity, duration and cycles of light exposure . Exposure to light in the morning can advance the circadian cycle . In other words, it can help us wake up earlier and feel more alert during the day. Furthermore, the effect of sunlight on melatonin production is just as significant. Melatonin is the hormone that promotes sleep. During the middle of the day, lots of exposure to natural light can reduce the production of this hormone, thereby increasing our level of arousal. The relationship between light and visual comfort is well understood, but its impacts on physiology remain to be explored. For example, it is important to provide privileged access to natural light in indoor environments. Not only for reasons of lighting and architectural layout, but also to contribute positively to our biology and well-being. Sunlight and Vitamin D: a Crucial Relationship The role of sunlight in the synthesis of vitamin D by the human body is well established. Indeed, when the skin is exposed to sunlight of sufficient intensity, it produces vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for our body: it notably allows the absorption of calcium and phosphate in our body, which is crucial for the development and preservation of our bones and teeth. It is important to emphasize that exposure to sunlight must be moderate and controlled by adequate protection methods, because too prolonged exposure can have harmful effects on the skin and general health. Therefore, a balance is necessary to reap the benefits of vitamin D and protect against the damage caused by too much exposure to sunlight. It is important to remember that the intensity, duration and cycles of exposure to light can influence the production of vitamin D by our body. For example, exposure to morning light can be beneficial for advancing the circadian cycle and increasing our vitamin D levels. The negative effects of excessive sun exposure You should know that sunlight , despite its many benefits, can also cause less beneficial effects when exposure is excessive. One of the key factors to consider in the impact of light on the body is the intensity , duration and cycles of light exposure . Indeed, high exposure to natural light, especially in the middle of the day, can cause a series of undesirable physiological reactions. Excessive exposure can reduce melatonin production and increase arousal levels. This can ultimately disrupt the circadian cycle, which is essential for proper regulation of sleep and alertness. Furthermore, exposure to light in the morning can advance the circadian cycle, which can cause a discrepancy with natural sleep times. Furthermore, depending on the orientation of your windows, natural lighting may vary throughout the day. For example, west-facing windows promote brightening at the end of the day, which can dampen circadian stimulation. Too much exposure to the sun is linked to certain diseases, particularly those related to aging. It is therefore important to regulate our exposure to light and adapt our environment for optimal brightness, both for our visual comfort and for our physiology.
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Understanding your respiratory system
Understanding your respiratory system is a vital necessity, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining our life and overall health. Nothing is more fundamental than being able to breathe. Any interference with your breathing, no matter how small, can have a significant impact on your daily well-being. Detailed anatomy of the respiratory system Arranged in the thoracic cavity , the primary organs of our respiratory system, the lungs , are conical, flexible and expandable organs. Like a sponge, they are made up of millions of tiny sacs called pulmonary alveoli . These alveoli are lined with blood capillaries, allowing the exchange of oxygen with the bloodstream , as well as the elimination of carbon dioxide, which is then exhaled. A thin layer of tissue, called the pleura , seals each lung tightly, insulating them from the outside. These two pleural membranes facilitate virtually frictionless movement of the lungs against the walls of the chest cavity during breathing. This makes the breathing process more efficient. Common diseases of the respiratory system The most common is undoubtedly bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial ducts that causes excessive mucus production and constriction of the airways. This can lead to wheezing, wet coughing, and tightness in the chest. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic, the latter often caused by smoking. Another serious illness is pneumonia, an infection that causes inflammation of the lung alveoli, the vital structures where gas exchange occurs. Pneumonia can result from a variety of infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Pneumonia can cause high fever, productive cough, and significant difficulty breathing. Another notable disorder is emphysema, a disease in which the alveoli are damaged, leading to a decreased efficiency of gas exchange in the lungs. Emphysema is often linked to smoking and can cause severe shortness of breath. Asthma is a chronic disorder in which the airways become sensitive and narrow in response to factors such as pollen, dust and other allergens. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing and chest tightness. How to maintain a healthy respiratory system First of all, it is essential to reduce, or even completely stop, your tobacco consumption. Indeed, the harmful components of tobacco directly affect the lungs and can cause serious respiratory illnesses. Even passive smoking can harm your respiratory system. Exercising regularly is also an excellent way to optimize breathing capacity . By using your lungs, these activities help improve the diffusion of oxygen into your bloodstream and better extract CO2. Additionally, physical activity increases your lung capacity and strengthens the surrounding muscles that assist your breathing. The air you breathe also has a significant impact on your respiratory health. It is therefore wise to avoid highly polluted places or to wear a mask when the air quality is poor. The presence of dust, mold or chemicals in the air can worsen respiratory irritation and infections.
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The benefits of alder on the human body
Whether you have difficulty maintaining a strong immune system, blood circulation problems or respiratory problems, alder may well offer you a natural and effective solution. Alder: a powerful ally for the immune system Recent scientific studies such as that conducted by Tung et al. explored the anti-flu components of the bark of Alnus japonica , a species of alder. The results demonstrated notable antiviral activity. These findings suggest alder as a valuable ally in the fight against viruses but also as a tool to strengthen the overall immune system . Supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of Alnus glutinosa also yields bioactive compounds with potential application in pharmacology. This time, the benefits are linked to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cardiovascular activities. Alder and its role in improving blood circulation Alder has remarkable therapeutic properties, particularly in improving blood circulation . The Alnus genus (scientific name for Alder) is recognized for its vasoprotective properties. That is to say, its ability to protect and strengthen our blood vessels. More specifically, certain subspecies like Alnus cordata or Alnus rubra are traditionally used in folk medicine to treat various vascular conditions, thanks to their key bioactive constituents . The active ingredients of Alder facilitate the dilation of blood vessels , thus increasing blood flow and reducing blood pressure. This not only contributes to better blood circulation, but also to reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Alders have an intense anti-inflammatory effect. They help reduce inflammation in the walls of blood vessels, contributing to smoother circulation and preventing potentially dangerous blockages. Support of the respiratory system by alder Alder's ability to support the respiratory system is just as impressive as its other health benefits. Its bark, rich in tannins and flavonoids, has an expectorant effect, helping to clear congested airways, thus making breathing easier. Additionally, a study conducted by Tung et al. showed antiviral activities in the bark of Alnus japonica , particularly against influenza, suggesting that Alder may offer protection against various respiratory diseases. It is essential to note that modern medical science has not yet fully explored the full potential benefits of Alder on the respiratory system. In contrast, people who suffer from chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis have reported improvement in their symptoms after incorporating Alder into their health care regimen.
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The role of sport in reducing stress
In the constant quest for balance and well-being in an often stressful world, sport emerges as a precious ally. Beyond its obvious physical benefits, it also offers refuge for the restless mind, acting as a powerful antidote to daily stress. What are the benefits of sport for stress? What sports or exercises should you practice for this? Discover in this article how to easily integrate physical activity into your daily life. Sport: ideal for reducing stress Sport can be an effective tool, a holistic approach to help manage stress, due to its beneficial physiological and psychological effects. Find out more in detail in this first part. Physiological effects First, during exercise, the body releases endorphins , natural chemicals that act as painkillers and antidepressants. These can induce a feeling of well-being and reduce the perception of pain. Additionally, regular physical activity can help reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. High levels of these hormones are associated with increased stress and anxiety. Release and relaxation It should also be noted that sport offers a way to release physical tension accumulated in the body due to stress . Through physical activity, you can channel your energy in a positive way, thereby reducing the feeling of restlessness. Moving and stretching muscles during exercise can also help with muscle relaxation , relieving physical tension associated with stress. Focus and distraction While you are participating in a sporting activity, your attention is often directed towards the activity itself. This can help take your mind off stressful or obsessive thoughts , allowing you to focus on the present moment . Additionally, exercise can act as a form of mental break , allowing you to temporarily step away from sources of stress and focus on a physical task. Improved general well-being It is also common to say that regular exercise can promote deeper and more restful sleep , which is essential for managing stress. Adequate sleep can help you feel more rested and better equipped to face daily challenges. And achieving fitness goals can boost your confidence and self-esteem , which can help you better cope with the stresses and challenges of daily life. Social support Participating in sports can connect you with other people with similar interests, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and strengthen your social support network , an important factor in managing stress. Recommended sports and exercises The most practiced sports The choice of sport largely depends on your personal preferences, your current physical condition and what attracts you the most. Here are some suggestions for sports that are often recommended to help manage and reduce stress: Running or brisk walking: these are simple and accessible activities that can be done almost anywhere. They encourage the release of endorphins and provide an opportunity to focus on your breathing and rhythm, which can help reduce stress. Yoga: This sport combines physical postures, conscious breathing and meditation, making it an excellent practice for stress management. It can help relax the body and mind and improve flexibility. Pilates: As for pilates, it is a method of exercise that focuses on strengthening deep muscles, improving posture, and promoting stability and flexibility. Controlled movements and synchronized breathing can help calm the mind and reduce stress. Swimming: This is a low-impact sport that offers a feeling of lightness and freedom in the water. It works all muscle groups while providing a calm and soothing atmosphere, which can be beneficial for reducing stress. Cycling: Cycling, whether outdoors or indoors, can be a great way to decompress and get moving while burning calories. It offers cardiovascular stimulation while allowing you to enjoy nature or urban landscapes. Martial arts: Practicing martial arts, such as karate, taekwondo or tai chi, combines physical movement with mental focus, which can help reduce stress and improve self-confidence. Dance: Dance is a form of bodily expression that can be very liberating and empowering. Whatever the dance, finding a form of dance that you enjoy can be a great way to release stress and have fun at the same time. Exercises at home If you prefer to exercise at home to manage and reduce stress, there are many options to explore. Below are some generally recommended exercises that you can do at home. Cardiovascular training : in this category, we find running on the spot, knee raises (quickly alternating rising knees) or jumping jacks (simple but effective split jumps to increase the heart rate) . Muscle training : here, you can do push-ups (to strengthen the chest, shoulders, arms), squats (to strengthen the muscles of the legs and buttocks), but also lunges (alternating steps to work the muscles of the lower body). Yoga and stretching : already mentioned earlier in this article, yoga is an excellent sport to help manage and reduce stress. Exploring different yoga postures helps improve flexibility and relaxation. Meditation and breathing : to practice guided meditation and relaxation, it is possible to use applications or online videos. As for deep breathing, it helps calm the mind and body when done correctly. Dancing : putting on some music and letting yourself go while dancing freely is also an interesting option to release stress and improve your mood. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) : These are short but intense workouts that alternate between periods of intense work and periods of rest. Either way, choose exercises that you enjoy and are within your current fitness level. Start slowly and progress at your own pace. Please note, it is also important to allow time to rest and recover between training sessions in order to prevent overwork and promote optimal recovery. Conclusion In conclusion, sport undeniably plays an essential role in managing and reducing stress. By following the advice and practicing the adapted exercises presented in this article, you can easily integrate physical activity into your daily life and reap the many benefits, whether physically but also for your mental well-being and emotional. So what are you waiting for to get started?
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Vitamin B12 deficiencies
Vitamin B12 deficiency is an often underestimated, but potentially serious, health problem. Vitamin B12 is indeed an essential vitamin for the proper functioning of many body systems, including the production of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system. How to recognize, understand and resolve a vitamin B12 deficiency? We tell you everything you need to know in this article! What you need to know about vitamin B12 What is vitamin B12? Vitamins B12, also known as cobalamins , are a group of organic compounds that contain cobalt in their chemical structure. Cobalt, the central component of vitamin B12, is an essential chemical element . It is involved in enzymatic reactions crucial for essential biological processes such as the formation of red blood cells, the metabolism of fatty acids and the functioning of the nervous system. It can therefore be said that cobalt plays a vital role in maintaining health and normal functioning of the human body . Their importance for the human body Like other types of vitamins, vitamin B12 is considered important for the human body. And this is explained in particular by its different key functions: The formation of red blood cells : Vitamin B12 is essential for the synthesis of DNA, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. A vitamin B12 deficiency can therefore lead to abnormal production of red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. The functioning of the nervous system : vitamin B12 is necessary for the health of nerve cells and the transmission of nerve signals. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to damage to peripheral nerves, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and coordination problems. Metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids : Vitamin B12 also plays an important role in the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids, which are essential for energy production and other metabolic processes in the human body. Food sources of vitamin B12 Vitamins B12 can be assimilated from a certain range of foods, the main ones being animal products . Red meat (beef, lamb) or poultry (chicken, turkey), for example, are an important source of vitamin B12 for humans. However, fish and seafood , such as salmon, trout, tuna, shrimp or even mussels, are also good alternatives rich in vitamin B12. Finally, eggs and dairy products , such as milk, cheese or yogurt, also contain vitamin B12. Plant foods , on the other hand, do not naturally contain vitamin B12. However, some sources are enriched with vitamin B12 . Here we can take the example of cereals, plant-based drinks or even meat substitutes. Vitamin B12 deficiencies What can cause vitamin B12 deficiencies? Vitamin B12 deficiencies can be caused by several factors, the main ones being: An unbalanced diet : people following a vegan or vegetarian diet have a higher risk than others of vitamin B12 deficiency, because this vitamin is mainly present in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Malabsorption : certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, atrophic gastritis or gastric surgery, can lead to poor absorption of vitamin B12 by the body, even if it is consumed in sufficient quantity. Taking medications : Some medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (used to treat heartburn and ulcers) and metformins (used to treat type 2 diabetes), may interfere with absorption vitamin B12. Underlying medical conditions : Conditions such as pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks the cells responsible for producing the intrinsic factor needed for vitamin B12 absorption, can also lead to a deficiency in vitamin B12. Aging : The body's ability to absorb vitamin B12 generally declines with age, which may increase the risk of deficiency in older adults. What are the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency? Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can develop gradually and vary from person to person. And in some cases, vitamin B12 deficiency may be asymptomatic, especially in the early stages. But if you want to get an idea of what a vitamin B12 deficiency translates to, here are some of the main symptoms. First, persistent fatigue and weakness : People affected by vitamin B12 deficiency may feel tired even after adequate rest. Additionally, a deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to anemia , characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood. Symptoms associated with anemia may include pale skin, feeling cold, or dizziness. Vitamin B12 deficiencies can also lead to neurological problems , which may be recognized by the following symptoms: numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty coordinating, balance problems, nerve pain, burning sensations and muscle weakness. Furthermore, cognitive functions can also be affected by vitamin B12 deficiencies. Which can then cause difficulty concentrating, memory problems, mental confusion and a reduction in intellectual abilities. Finally, some people with vitamin B12 deficiency may experience mood changes (irritability, depression, anxiety, mood swings). What solutions to overcome vitamin B12 deficiencies? To compensate for vitamin B12 deficiencies, several solutions exist today: Vitamin B12 supplements : Vitamin B12 supplements can be taken orally or in the form of injections, depending on the severity of the deficiency and individual needs. For example this food supplement Cell Complex Vitalié and Immunity , rich in vitamins and various essential nutrients. A modification of the diet : for people following a vegan or vegetarian diet, incorporating foods rich in vitamin B12 can help prevent deficiencies. This may include foods such as seaweed, shiitake mushrooms, and foods fortified with vitamin B12. Treatment of underlying conditions : If vitamin B12 deficiency is due to an underlying disease, such as malabsorption or lack of intrinsic factor, treatment of this condition may be necessary to correct the vitamin B12 deficiency . In all cases, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations if vitamin B12 deficiency is suspected. Conclusion Ultimately, vitamin B12 deficiencies are a significant health challenge, requiring vigilance and preventive actions. By monitoring your nutritional intake, consulting a healthcare professional if necessary, and exploring supplementation options, it is possible to effectively prevent and treat these deficiencies through simple, natural solutions.
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The benefits of oregano
Oregano is an herb with multiple virtues whose benefits are combined with its rich and aromatic flavors. Originating from the sunny lands of the Mediterranean, it is not only a culinary ingredient appreciated for centuries, but also a veritable open-air pharmacy. Antioxidant, digestive support, anti-inflammatory; explore all the benefits of oregano in this article! Oregano What is oregano? Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a herbaceous plant in the Lamiaceae family . Native to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa , it is widely distributed in Mediterranean regions. It usually grows in meadows, hills and mountains. But it is also often grown in gardens because of its culinary use and medicinal properties. Oregano thrives in warm, sunny climates . It is well suited to Mediterranean climates, but it can also be grown in other regions with hot, dry summers. It can be sensitive to frost and prefers warmer temperatures Typically, oregano is grown from seeds . It prefers well-drained, sunny soil , but it can also tolerate some shade. The plant requires little maintenance once established and can be harvested several times as it grows. The leaves are often used fresh or dried as a seasoning in cooking. Besides its culinary use, oregano is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. It is sometimes made into essential oil for its antimicrobial and aromatic effects. Additionally, oregano is often grown as an ornamental plant for its pretty purple or pink flowers. In what forms can I obtain it? Today, oregano is available in several forms, each suited to different uses. To give you some ideas, here are the main forms in which it is possible to obtain oregano: Dried Leaves: This is one of the most common forms of oregano available in the market today. Oregano leaves are harvested, dried and packaged for use as a seasoning in cooking. They generally retain their flavor and aroma well when stored in a cool, dry place. Ground dried oregano: Some brands also offer ground dried oregano, which means the oregano leaves are ground into a fine powder. This shape can be convenient for use in spice blends or when you want even distribution of flavor throughout a dish. Fresh oregano: If you have the option, you can also purchase fresh oregano at farmers' markets, specialty grocery stores, or even grow your own oregano plant in your garden. Fresh leaves often have a more intense flavor than dried leaves and can be used in the same way. Oregano Essential Oil: Oregano essential oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the oregano plant. It can be used for medicinal, aromatic and cosmetic purposes due to its antimicrobial properties and distinctive fragrance. Be careful, oregano essential oil is very concentrated and should be used with caution and diluted according to the appropriate recommendations. Dried oregano capsules: some food supplements contain oregano in the form of capsules or tablets. These products can be used for medicinal purposes, including to support the immune system or for their antimicrobial properties. It is important to follow package directions and consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement. It is based on the needs and preferences of each person that it is appropriate to choose the form of oregano that best meets the needs and expectations, whether for cooking, health or other applications.Top of formBottom of the form The benefits of oregano For physical health Oregano offers a range of physical health benefits thanks to its richness in antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds. These properties can help protect cells from oxidative damage and fight infections. Antioxidant effects: Antioxidants found in oregano, such as flavonoids and phenols, help neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and contributing to overall cellular health. Regular consumption of oregano can therefore help prevent various diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, etc. Antimicrobial properties: Compounds such as carvacrol and thymol found in oregano have demonstrated powerful antimicrobial properties, capable of fighting a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. These properties make it a valuable natural remedy for treating infections, strengthening the immune system and supporting health. Anti-inflammatory effects: Certain compounds in oregano, such as phenolic acids, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and digestive disorders. Oregano may therefore be beneficial in relieving pain, swelling and discomfort caused by inflammation, thereby promoting overall well-being. For digestion Additionally, oregano has been known for its digestive benefits for centuries, thanks to its carminative and digestive properties that help relieve gastrointestinal disorders. Improved digestion: oregano stimulates the production of digestive juices, thus promoting efficient digestion. It can help relieve bloating, cramps and gas, making the digestive process easier. Its digestive action can also help reduce discomfort after meals and promote optimal absorption of essential nutrients. Carminative properties: The carminative properties of oregano help relieve gastrointestinal spasms and expel intestinal gas. This can help relieve abdominal discomfort and prevent bloating. By supporting regular and comfortable digestion, oregano can contribute to maintaining a healthy and balanced digestive system. For the immune system Finally, oregano provides valuable support to the immune system through its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help strengthen the body's natural defenses against infections and disease. Boosts the immune system: The antimicrobial compounds found in oregano help fight pathogens, thereby boosting the immune system's ability to protect the body against infections. By boosting the immune response, oregano may help reduce the risk of infectious diseases and promote faster recovery if infected. Disease prevention: Thanks to its high antioxidant content, oregano helps protect cells against oxidative damage, thereby strengthening the overall health of the body and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. By combining its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, oregano may play an important role in disease prevention, supporting long-term well-being. Conclusion In conclusion, oregano turns out to be much more than just an aromatic herb used in cooking. With its antioxidant compounds, antimicrobial properties and digestive support, it offers a range of health benefits. Whether as a seasoning in your favorite dishes, as an infusion to relieve digestive ailments, or even in supplement form, oregano deserves a special place in your daily routine.
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Protecting your hearing health
Hearing health refers to the ability of your hearing system to function effectively. It is a valuable sense that deserves to be maintained. However, several factors can cause this ability to deteriorate, including frequent exposure to loud noises and natural aging. The importance of good hearing health It is essential to understand that hearing health is a crucial component of our overall well-being. It allows us to communicate effectively, maintain social relationships, and improve our quality of life. Unfortunately, many people suffer from hearing loss or other hearing problems , often untreated, which can have a negative impact on their daily lives. Hearing loss can negatively impact quality of life , impairing communication and social interactions. Thus, hearing screening and medical monitoring are essential to early diagnosis and management of hearing loss. It is important to note that excess noise can be harmful to health, causing not only hearing problems such as deafness and tinnitus, but also more general health problems, including cardiovascular pathologies. Therefore, preserving our hearing is not only a matter of convenience, but a necessity to maintain good general health. Untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia, depression and other health problems. Therefore, regular hearing medical check-ups are strongly recommended, especially for the elderly and at-risk groups. How to maintain good hearing health It is strongly recommended that you avoid establishments or activities that have a reputation for high noise levels. If you cannot avoid these environments, be sure to move as far away from loudspeakers as possible, monitor the noise level using audio devices, and wear protective foam earplugs . Prevention of hearing loss can be ensured by reducing exposure to excessive noise. It is common to reduce the duration of exposure to high noise levels and not to exceed certain weekly exposure limits, depending on the noise levels. This consultation can be carried out with a hearing aid professional , who will be able to give you specific and adapted advice. Finally, think about the youngest: prolonged or inappropriate use of tablets, smartphones and headphones can increase the risk of hearing loss, damage to the auditory system and tinnitus in children. It is therefore essential to adjust sound levels and limit the use of these devices. Better understand hearing aids and their effects A hearing aid is a device used to improve hearing. Its main role is to make sound more audible to the person using it. According to the ACHIEVE clinical study , using hearing aids can reduce cognitive decline by half in older people with hearing loss at risk of cognitive decline. They can also improve sound perception and reduce tinnitus . There are a variety of hearing aids, including cochlear implants , which stimulate the cochlea to help better perceive sounds, especially high-frequency sounds. On the other hand, conventional hearing aids are often used to improve the perception of low-pitched sounds. A new trend is the combination of conventional hearing aids and cochlear implants in some patients with severe hearing loss. This combined approach can potentially allow for better perception of the entire sound spectrum. The medical community recommends consulting a hearing care professional for proper information about hearing health and hearing aid use. Research continues on hearing and therapeutic approaches to improve hearing health. Ongoing advances in this field could bring us closer to more effective solutions to treat hearing loss and improve the quality of life of those affected.
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Essential essential oils for the spring season
As spring approaches with its share of changes, it may be particularly interesting to take stock of the essential essential oils of this season. Essential oils and the change of season Our bodies often respond to seasonal changes. With the arrival of spring, we may feel more energetic, but also more vulnerable to environmental allergens like pollen . Fortunately, certain essential oils can help us manage these seasonal changes. Essential oils , a powerful concentrate of the plants from which they are extracted, are known for their many beneficial properties. They can help us alleviate allergy symptoms, promote calm and strengthen our immune system . There are different ways to enjoy the benefits of essential oils. Inhalation and diffusion are the most commonly used methods. Inhalation consists of breathing the vapors of an essential oil placed on a handkerchief or diluted in hot water. As for diffusion , it allows the molecules of essential oils to be dispersed in the ambient air. Essential essential oils for the spring season The use of essential oils in spring offers a natural solution to combat the unwanted effects that this season can bring. Among these essential oils , three of them are particularly essential: tarragon, eucalyptus and Roman chamomile. Tarragon is renowned for its powerful antiallergic properties, particularly effective against seasonal allergies such as hay fever. Eucalyptus , on the other hand, provides relief to the respiratory tract and facilitates breathing, which can be of great help when the amount of pollen in the air increases. Roman chamomile is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Essential oils are often used synergistically to increase their effectiveness. For example, a popular recipe for combating pollen allergies involves mixing equal amounts of tarragon, eucalyptus, and Roman chamomile essential oil. This synergy offers an effective way to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies. How to use essential oils in spring The respiratory tract is one of the most effective for benefiting from the benefits of essential oils. With an explosive spring scent, these well-being elixirs provide a real boost. Indeed, a simple inhalation or diffusion allows the body to benefit from their properties. A good way to stock up on energy at the start of spring is to diffuse a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil in your home. Known for its revitalizing properties, it helps fight against the effects of pollen. For those who are more sensitive to seasonal allergies, the use of tarragon essential oil is recommended. It has natural antihistamine properties and helps relieve pollen allergy symptoms . Simply add a few drops to a diffuser, or inhale it directly. Let's now move on to Roman chamomile essential oil , a real asset against stress and sleep disorders . It will be a great help in finding restful sleep and fully enjoying the spring days.
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Polyphenols understanding their importance and impact
Polyphenols are a family of chemical compounds found naturally in plants. They are recognized for their antioxidant properties, but also for their beneficial effects on health in general. Understanding polyphenols: what are they? Polyphenols are primarily known as antioxidant compounds , serving to protect our cells against free radicals . Unlike simple antioxidants, polyphenols are more complex compounds, with more varied structures. There are several thousand polyphenols found in the plant world , among which several hundred are found in the plants that we consume regularly. On our plates, polyphenols are present in greater quantities in fruits such as strawberries, lychees, grapes, vegetables such as artichokes, parsley, Brussels sprouts, but also in tea, red wine and chocolate. black. The types of polyphenols are diverse and varied, but we can cite a few main classes: flavanols , flavonols , flavanones , hydroxycinnamic acids and anthocyanidins . Each of these types of polyphenols has specific properties and contributes, in its own way, to the body's defense. The relationship between polyphenols and human health They are recognized as powerful antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals responsible for cell damage. Thus, incorporating foods rich in polyphenols into our daily diet can have a visible impact on our health. Different mechanisms of action of polyphenols have been noted, although these are not yet fully elucidated. It is, however, essential to understand that the activity of these complex molecules is influenced by the metabolic and genetic status of each individual, but also by the form in which they are ingested. Even more, epidemiological studies show a reduction in the risk of serious diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, associated with increased consumption of foods rich in polyphenols. Wine, in particular, is notable for its content of antioxidant phenolic compounds and, when consumed in moderation, may have beneficial effects on atherosclerosis, diabetes and hypertension. How to increase your consumption of polyphenols? An excellent way to increase your consumption of polyphenols is to adopt a varied, balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables . Products such as strawberries, lychees, grapes, artichokes, and Brussels sprouts are veritable gold mines when it comes to polyphenols. Black tea , green tea , red wine , garlic , parsley , and dark chocolate are also excellent sources of polyphenols. It should be noted that regular consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in polyphenols is recommended. However, before taking food supplements based on polyphenols , we strongly recommend that you speak with a doctor. These dietary supplements may interact with other medications and potentially cause side effects.
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