General Health & Wellbeing – Page 3

Could Artificial Sweeteners Increase Risk of Cancer?

🍬 Artificial sweeteners, like aspartame and acesulfame-K, are common in many of our favourite “sugar-free” foods and drinks. They help cut calories, but are they really safe?
A recent study from France looked into this and found some worrying connections between these sweeteners and cancer.

🔍 What Was the Study About?
Researchers wanted to see if eating artificial sweeteners could increase the risk of getting cancer. They studied over 100,000 adults for nearly 8 years, tracking what they ate and how much artificial sweetener they consumed.

📊 What Did They Find?
The study showed that people who consumed higher amounts of artificial sweeteners had a slightly higher risk of developing cancer. Specifically, aspartame and acesulfame-K were linked to a higher risk of cancer overall, and especially breast cancer and cancers related to obesity.

🔑 Key Takeaways
– Higher Cancer Risk: People who consumed more artificial sweeteners had a higher chance of getting cancer compared to those who didn’t use them as much.
– Specific Sweeteners: Aspartame and acesulfame-K were particularly linked to this increased risk.
– Healthier Choices: This study suggests it might be wise to limit the intake of these sweeteners until more is known about their long-term effects.

❓ Why Should You Care?
Even though the increase in cancer risk is small, it’s still important to be aware of what we put into our bodies. Opting for natural sweeteners and whole foods might be a better choice for our long-term health.

🌿 What Can You Do?
– Read Labels: Check for artificial sweeteners in the ingredient lists of your favourite foods and drinks.
– Moderation: Try to reduce your intake of products with artificial sweeteners.
– Natural Alternatives: Consider using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or simply enjoying foods in their natural state.

Read the full study here

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Stoptober: A Great Time to Quit Smoking

General Health & Wellbeing, Therapies Posted by Jadwiga Thu, September 26, 2024 11:38AM

Stoptober is an annual public health campaign encouraging people to quit smoking throughout the month of October. With thousands participating, it’s the perfect time to take that step toward better health and a smoke-free life. Whether you’ve tried quitting before or this is your first attempt, Stoptober offers motivation, community support, and various tools to make your quit journey smoother.

One highly effective, but often overlooked method for quitting smoking is clinical hypnotherapy. For many people, a single 90-minute hypnotherapy session is enough to reframe their thinking and break the habit for good.

How Hypnotherapy Can Help You Quit Smoking

Clinical hypnotherapy works by targeting the subconscious mind. It helps change the mental and emotional patterns that keep you attached to smoking, making it easier to let go of the habit. Unlike traditional methods that may rely on willpower alone, hypnotherapy taps into your underlying motivations, helping you overcome the cravings and triggers that often derail quit attempts.

A session with a qualified hypnotherapist is tailored to your unique needs, addressing the specific reasons you smoke—whether it’s stress, habit, or even social triggers. During the session, you’ll be guided into a deeply relaxed state where positive suggestions are introduced, helping you change your mindset around smoking. Many report that one session is all they need to stop smoking for good.

The Timeline of Positive Changes After You Quit Smoking

When you quit smoking, the benefits to your health start almost immediately and continue to improve over time. Here’s a timeline of what happens in your body after you’ve stopped:

20 minutes: Your heart rate and blood pressure begin to drop, and circulation improves.
12 hours: Carbon monoxide levels in your blood return to normal, improving oxygen levels in your body.
24 hours: Your risk of heart attack decreases as your body starts to clear out toxins.
48 hours: Nerve endings begin to regrow, and your sense of taste and smell start to improve.
72 hours: Breathing becomes easier as your bronchial tubes begin to relax, and energy levels rise.
1 to 3 months: Your lung function improves significantly, and walking becomes easier.
9 months: Cilia in your lungs fully recover, reducing coughing and respiratory infections.
1 year: Your risk of heart disease is cut in half compared to when you smoked.
5 to 15 years: Your risk of stroke drops to that of a non-smoker.
10 years: Your risk of lung cancer is about half that of a smoker.
15 years: Your risk of heart disease is the same as someone who has never smoked.

Why Choose Hypnotherapy During Stoptober?

Stoptober is an excellent time to quit because you’re not alone—thousands of people are making the same commitment, and support is everywhere. Adding hypnotherapy to your quitting strategy can boost your chances of success. It offers a drug-free, side-effect-free approach that addresses the psychological roots of your smoking habit, potentially making it easier than ever to stop.

If you’re truly committed to quitting smoking, a 90-minute clinical hypnotherapy session could be the powerful nudge you need. This Stoptober, take charge of your health and embrace a life free from smoking.

Find out more

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A little bit about Mugwort

General Health & Wellbeing Posted by Jadwiga Wed, September 25, 2024 11:45AM

Mugwort, scientifically known as Artemisia vulgaris, is a fascinating herb with a rich history and a variety of benefits. Whether you’re interested in herbal remedies or just curious about traditional uses, mugwort has something to offer. Let’s explore this versatile herb, its historical background, and how to use it safely.

What Does Mugwort Look Like? 🌱

Mugwort is a perennial herb that can grow up to 6 feet tall. It has feathery, deeply lobed leaves that are green on top and silvery-white underneath, giving the plant a distinctive appearance. The plant produces small, inconspicuous yellow or reddish-brown flowers in late summer. The aroma of mugwort is strong and aromatic, often described as earthy and slightly bitter.

A Brief History of Mugwort 🌍

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): In TCM, mugwort has been used for centuries for its warming and tonifying properties. Known as “Ai Ye,” it’s commonly employed in moxibustion—a technique where mugwort is burned near acupuncture points to enhance healing. It’s believed to help with digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and general energy balance.

Ayurveda: In Ayurvedic medicine, mugwort is recognized for its digestive and respiratory benefits. Often used as a part of formulations to promote healthy digestion and respiratory function, it’s valued for its warming qualities and ability to balance the body’s doshas (energetic forces).

Western Herbalism: In Western herbal practices, mugwort has been utilized for its various therapeutic properties. Historically, it was used to treat digestive problems, stimulate appetite, and relieve menstrual discomfort. Its use in folklore often involves dream enhancement and protection against evil spirits. 🌙

Where to Find Mugwort 🌿

Mugwort can be found growing wild in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It thrives in well-drained soil and often appears in fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. You can also purchase dried mugwort from herbal shops or online stores.

Which Parts Are Used? 🌾

The most commonly used parts of mugwort are the leaves and stems. These parts are harvested and dried for use in teas, tinctures, and poultices. The leaves contain the active compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects.

How to Use Mugwort 🌿

Mugwort can be used in several ways:

Teas: Infuse dried mugwort leaves to make a tea. This is a common way to harness its digestive and calming effects. However, mugwort has a strong, somewhat bitter flavour, so you might want to blend it with other herbs for a milder taste.
Tinctures: Mugwort tinctures are a concentrated liquid form of the herb. They can be taken in small doses to support digestion and other health concerns.
Poultices: Apply a poultice made from crushed mugwort leaves to areas of discomfort. This traditional method is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Aromatherapy: Mugwort essential oil can be used in aromatherapy for relaxation and to enhance dream recall.

Precautions and Safety ⚠️

While mugwort offers many benefits, it’s important to use it with caution:

Pregnancy: Avoid using mugwort during pregnancy, as it can stimulate uterine contractions and potentially lead to complications.
Allergies: Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies) may also react to mugwort.
Consultation: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Stay curious and healthy,
The Acorn Team 🌟

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Tummy Troubles on Your Travels?

General Health & Wellbeing Posted by Jadwiga Thu, September 19, 2024 11:44AM

Planning a trip and worried about traveller’s diarrhoea? Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) might just be your gut’s new best friend. This powerful probiotic yeast has been shown to help maintain digestive health and prevent unpleasant digestive issues while traveling. Let’s dive into the research and see how it can benefit you!

What Is Saccharomyces Boulardii? 🍞
Saccharomyces boulardii is a beneficial yeast that acts as a probiotic. Unlike bacteria-based probiotics, S. boulardii is a yeast that helps balance the good bacteria in your gut, supporting overall digestive health.

The Research Behind Its Benefits 🌍🔬
Recent studies have shown that S. boulardii is highly effective in preventing traveller’s diarrhoea, a common issue for many travellers. Here’s a closer look at the findings:

– Traveller’s Diarrhoea Prevention: A comprehensive review of 27 clinical trials involving over 5,000 patients found that S. boulardii significantly reduces the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea. This makes it a reliable choice for maintaining gut health on your journeys. ✈️💧

– Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhoea: The same review highlighted S. boulardii’s effectiveness in preventing diarrhoea caused by antibiotics. This is particularly useful when antibiotics disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. 💊

– Additional Uses: Besides traveller’s diarrhoea and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, S. boulardii has shown promise in managing symptoms related to Helicobacter pylori treatment and enteral nutrition. While it’s also being investigated for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease, more research is needed to confirm these benefits. 🌿

Why Is This Important for You?
S. boulardii is a well-tolerated and effective probiotic that can be a game-changer for your gut health, especially when traveling. Its ability to reduce the risk of diarrhoea and support digestive balance makes it a valuable addition to your wellness routine.

Please remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including S. boulardii, to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual health needs. 🩺

For a deeper dive into the research: