Do you know that with the help of electrolyte drinks, you can consume important minerals?

Electrolytes are minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium that are present in the tissue, blood, and other bodily fluids.

Moreover, these are critical for nerve and muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and hydration.

Some drinks are naturally rich in electrolytes while others undergo special formulations to provide electrolytes.

The term electrolyte refers to the fact that these are substances with an electrical charge.

A number of bodily functions rely on a small electric current, which electrolytes provide.

You can maintain a healthy electrolyte balance with a diet of food and drinks rich in electrolytes.

While some other people like high-performing athletes and people who are ill and dehydrated may need a boost.

Keep on reading to learn more about electrolyte drinks.

Electrolyte Drinks

The term electrolyte refers to chemicals that carry an electric charge when you dissolve them in water.

However, in terms of nutrition, it refers to minerals that play a crucial role in your body.

Moreover, electrolytes appear in your tissues, blood, urine, and other bodily fluids.

These include:

• sodium
• calcium
• potassium
• phosphate
• chloride
• magnesium

These minerals are important for a number of bodily functions.

These include keeping your body hydrated, controlling the nervous system, and balancing the acidic and basic, i.e. pH levels of the body.

List of Beverages high in Electrolytes

Some beverages are natural sources of electrolytes, while some are electrolyte-infused drinks.

The following are six common drinks high in electrolytes:

Cow’s Milk

Cow’s milk is naturally high in electrolytes and includes calcium, sodium, and potassium.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies, FNDDS, 1 cup of regular whole cow’s milk provides:

• 300 milligrams, mg of calcium
• 92.7 mg of sodium
• 366 mg of potassium

Moreover, it is a good source of macronutrients.

If you exercise vigorously, then this combination of electrolytes and macronutrients makes cow’s milk an easy post-workout electrolyte drink.

However, cow’s milk may not be suitable for anyone.

For instance, regular cow milk is often not an option if you have lactose intolerance.

While a lactose-free version may be a better option.

In the same way, no animal-derived milk, cow, or otherwise is an option for those who follow a vegan diet.

Also, there are plenty of other dairy alternatives like soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk.

However, some research suggests that not only do plant-based ilks fail to provide comparable levels of vitamins and minerals, but the vitamins and minerals are absorbed less easily than those present in cow’s milk as well.

Fruit Juice

Fruit juices like orange juice, cherry juice, and watermelon juice tend to be good sources of magnesium potassium, and phosphorus.

According to FNDDS, the average school container or 124 grams of 100% orange juice provides:

• 13.6 mg of magnesium
• 221 mg of potassium
• 34..7mg of phosphorus

Moreover, fruit juices can also be good sources of antioxidants and vitamins.

However, most fruit juices are low in sodium and high in sugar.

The same containers of orange juice contain 2.48 mg of sodium, but 10.3 grams of sugar also.

Coconut Water

It is another source of certain electrolytes, particularly potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium.

FNDDS states that 240 g of unsweetened coconut water contains:

• 14.4 mg of magnesium
• 62.4 mg of sodium
• 16.8 mg of calcium
• 396 mg of potassium

Other Sources of Electrolytes

Some other sources of electrolytes are:

Nutrient-added water beverages

These are low-calories, low-sugar options for electrolyte drinks.

Electrolyte-infused water beverages do not have the same amounts of sugars and calories, as fruit juices and sports drinks.

Moreover, depending on the brand, they may even provide a more diverse mix of electrolytes.

If the beverage uses the term “water” on its packaging, the Food and Drug Administration, DA states that the product must meet all safety requirements.

And label all the ingredients including minerals on the nutritional information label.

Sports Drinks

These drinks are available electrolyte beverages.

Though popular, sports drinks have their fair share of pros and cons.

For instance, sports drinks are a convenient way for high-endurance athletes to stay hydrated and replenish the electrolytes they lose through sweat.

Moreover, there are sugar-free options available and some may also provide energy-boosting benefits.

On the other hand, sports drinks contain more electrolytes than an average person needs.

They contain a lot of sugar, i.e. a 360 milliliter serving of sports drinks contains 21 g of sugar.

Overall, commercial electrolyte drinks like sports drinks may be a good choice for athletes.

But may not be suitable for an average person.

Oral electrolyte Solutions

Oral electrolyte solutions are another type of commercial electrolyte drink.

Manufacturers often formulate these with an optimal balance of electrolytes and sugar to help you recover from dehydration.

For instance, an 8-ounce serving of commercial oral electrolyte solution can contain:

• 244 mg of sodium
• 184 mg of potassium
• 294 mg of chloride

Anecdotally, you can recommend these types of drinks for replenishing electrolytes in children with diarrhea or vomiting.

They are suitable for adults who may be at risk of dehydration.

Making Electrolyte Drinks at Home

There are a number of ways you can make it at home. These are:

Electrolyte Tablets

Making an electrolyte drink at home can be as simple as adding an electrolyte tablet. These are available online and also in health and wellness stores.

Smoothies

Fruit or vegetable smoothies are an easy and popular way to balance your electrolytes at home.

You can use the following fruits and vegetables high in electrolytes:

• bananas
• avocadoes
• spinach
• kale

Oral Rehydration Recipe

You can also make your own oral rehydration therapies with basic kitchen staples.

For instance, you can make an oral rehydration solution by mixing the following:

• 1 liter of water
• 6 teaspoon, tsp of sugar
• 1/2 tsp of salt

Recommended Amount of Electrolytes

Most people need the following recommended daily amounts of electrolytes to maintain a healthy balance:

Sodium: Maximum of 2,300 mg.

Chloride: Roughly the same as sodium as most dietary chloride comes from salt.

Potassium: The National Institute of Health, NIH recommends 2,600 mg for adult females and 3,400 mg for adult males.

Calcium: The NIH suggests about 1,000 mg for those between the age of 19 to 50 for males.

About 1,200 mg for females aging 51 years and older and males aging 71 years and older.

Phosphate: Adults of age 19 and older need 700 mg.

Magnesium: NIH recommends 310 mg for females and 400 mg for males aging between 19 to 30 years of age.

Moreover, about 320 mg for females and 420 mg for males 31 years and older.

However, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may need higher or lower amounts.

Their doctor can recommend an appropriate amount.

ELectrolyte Imbalance

When the electrolyte levels in your body become too high or too low, it can cause an electrolyte imbalance.

It happens when the amount of water in your body changes.

In most cases, your body needs to take in as much fluid as it loses.

Without that balance, your body can become dehydrated, i.e. have too little water, or overhydrated, i.e. have too much water.

A number of factors can affect the water balance of your body.

These include:

• excessive sweating
• not eating or drinking enough
• medications like diuretics and laxatives
• vomiting and diarrhea
• kidney or heart problems
• congestive heart failure

Moreover, certain other medical conditions show an association with electrolyte imbalance.

For instance, an analysis indicates an association between COVID-19 severity and significantly lower levels of sodium, potassium, and calcium

When you have an electrolyte imbalance, you may experience a wide range of symptoms.

These can include shortness of breath, confusion, rapid heart heart raete o an irregualr heartbeat.

Therefore, doctors advise that you should seek medical advice or see a doctor in case you experience severe symptoms like:

• convulsions
• seizures
• rapid blood pressure changes

A doctor can find whether you have an electrolyte imbalance or another condition, as well as the appropriate treatment.

How you can Maintain the Balance

When you consume a balanced diet that includes nutritious foods and drinks, you can supply your body with important and necessary minerals to support a healthy electrolyte balance.

This means to make sure that your diet includes fruits and vegetables rich in electrolytes.

Moreover, it also includes healthy sources of essential minerals.

Moreover, it is important to maintain hydration throughout the day.

If you exercise, you should pay close attention to your fluid intake.

Mild to moderate workouts may only require water, while longer and more intense workouts call for more robust electrolyte drinks.

However, if you experience symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting, you may also want to pay attention to your fluid intake and consider an oral electrolyte solution to avoid dehydration.

Thus, if you experience symptoms of electrolyte imabalcne, you should consider consulting a doctor.

Benefits and Risks of Electrolyte Drinks

If you maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated, you will not need electrolyte drinks.

However, these drinks can provide a quick and convenient way for athletes to replenish electrolytes lost from sweat.

Or help those with severe diarrhea or vomiting to stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance.

However, if you regularly consume electrolyte drinks, you may consume more than necessary.

These can have associated risks.

For instance, it can lead to:

• hypernatremia
• hyperkalemia
• hypercalcemia

These occur when you have too much sodium, potassium, or calcium in the blood.

Final Thoughts

Electrolytes are important minerals that play a key role in a number of bodily functions. You can get sufficient levels of electrolytes from the diet, however, an electrolyte-rich beverage can also be beneficial for athletes who engage in intense exercise or those who are ill and at risk for dehydration.

You can also make electrolyte-rich beverages at home by mixing salt, sugar, and water. However, you should try to maintain healthy electrolyte levels, as too much or too little can result in an imbalance, which can have associated risks. If you have concerns about your electrolyte level, make sure to contact your doctor.

pH, as you know, stands for the potential of hydrogen present in any chemical compound. In layman’s terms, it measures the hydrogen-ion concentration of a substance. Logically speaking, the pH scale typically measures and classifies a substance’s acidity or baseness in a solution.

You should know that a healthy mouth usually has 7.1 approx as per the pH scale. This figure may be slightly above the neutral pH of 7. However, when you introduce acidic foods through your diet – they constantly lower this figure. As a result, you endanger your teeth and dental health. That sounds interesting, right?

Therefore, you should know the pH of any food item you eat. Keep reading to learn more on the topic and how the pH scale can affect your dental health.

Does the pH Level of Your Mouth Matter?

Do you know the pH level of your mouth is essential as it affects the health of your teeth and gums? You may also have heard about the pH level of your body that affects your health.

Studies show that lower or more acidic pH levels in your mouth are associated with a greater risk for severe health conditions. Examples are obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Similarly, higher pH levels, or more alkaline – are connected to improvements in memory and cognition, reduced pain, and lower risk of hypertension and stroke. That sounds interesting, right?

So you may ask, how is pH connected to your dental health? The pH level in your mouth will directly or indirectly affect the health of your teeth and gums. Therefore, the best practice is maintaining a healthy pH level in your oral cavity through the foods you eat.

By consciously regulating the pH in your mouth, you can quickly help reduce the harmful bacteria. As a result, it will reduce your risk of gum disease, gum infection, tooth cavities, and tooth decay. 

Bacteria feed on sugars commonly found in table sugar or sucrose. Therefore, foods like pasta, candies, sodas, bread, and even natural fruits may give bacteria in the mouth more stuff to feed on. Thus producing lactic acids, which leads to tooth decay.

Tooth Decay and pH Scale

It is essential to know that one common way tooth decay can occur – is when the pH level in your mouth starts to fall below 5.5. The neutral pH level is 7.0, but this will drop when you begin to consume acidic foods and drinks. When your mouth gets exposed to long periods of low pH – it will allow cavities causing bacteria to develop.

We all know that sugar is terrible for your teeth. Exposure to sugars frequently may cause the pH of the dental plaque to fall below a healthy level. However, if you can keep your plaque on teeth at a level of 7.0 or greater, you will not be at risk for cavity-causing bacteria, even when exposed to sugars.

Some foods, such as sugary beverages and snacks, increase your mouth’s acidity. Hence the pH can change dramatically with the types of foods you consume. Highly acidic foods, like lemons, often lower your pH, while other foods, like melons, may increase the pH.

The saliva secreted from your salivary glands in the mouth helps to neutralize these acids to a large extent. Acidic foods can also increase the acidity of saliva. If the pH does not cancel quickly – it may allow the harmful bacteria to deteriorate the condition of your mouth. As a result, it may lead to cavities or even the need for a root canal treatment in the long run.

Acids in Your Mouth – pH Scale

The word acid has several negative meanings, typically conjuring up images of a dangerous liquid effortlessly eating through some solid substance. Think of these acids in your mouth are pretty different from those found in labs, like hydrochloric acid.

But these acids can still erode whatever substance they come in contact with. It may be the outer layer of your teeth. You often consume some foods and beverages that are naturally acidic, like apples, oranges, and other citrus fruits.

Several food items contain sugars and carbs that the bacteria or oral microbe in your mouth consume and finally convert into lactic acid. The presence of this lactic acid lowers the pH scale of your mouth. Meaning it indicates higher acidity.

It is important to note that when the pH scale of your mouth drops below a level of 5.5, your tooth enamel may start to dissolve under the acid attack. In such a scenario, the tooth decay process progresses unchecked. Finally, the acid damage will make your enamel too weak to protect your teeth from harmful bacteria. These bacteria can easily slip past the enamel and infect the inner tissues of the teeth.

How to Keep Your Dental pH Scale Under Control?

Cutting acidic foods out of your diet may be possible, though it can be challenging. Moreover, it might also deprive you of essential minerals and nutrients. Unfortunately, ceasing to feed the oral bacteria in your mouth means not feeding yourself.

Therefore, the best option is to brush and routinely floss your teeth. Probably as it is among your best defenses against the invasion of organic acid. Oral bacteria are more harmful as they produce acid in more significant numbers. 

If left alone and untreated, these harmful bacteria may create plaque, which hardens into tartar. This plaque on teeth and tartar increase your chances of developing a cavity. If you want to eat something acidic or sugary, do so as part of a large meal. The reason is that the other components of your feast may help balance out the acidic invasion on your tooth enamel. Finally, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water when you are done eating.

How Can You Increase The pH Level of Your Mouth?

In order to maintain a healthy pH level in your mouth, the first step should be to increase alkalinity. It is essential to understand that improving your oral cavity’s pH scale may have several advantages. You could do it simply by maintaining an alkaline-friendly diet. 

Below are some tips to help you get started:

1 Eat More Vegetables

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is healthy for your body and dental health. Green vegetables are rich in minerals and vitamins that help increase alkalinity. In addition, fresh veggies could help fight off bacteria and infections too. 

Experts say that the more vibrant colored fruits and vegetables you eat, the more beneficial it is. Not only for your dental health but for your overall health too. Some good choices may include bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, kale leaves, asparagus, and green beans.

2. More Beans & Seeds

Most beans are often high in alkaline, such as navy, soy, and lima beans. Other good options to move to alkaline food include caraway, fennel, cumin, and sesame seeds.

3. Cut Back on Bread to Maintain pH Scale

Note that most grains and bread fall under the acidic range of foods. Limiting bread in meals may be the most challenging part of any diet. But you need to understand that there are healthier options, such as almond flour bread, which is slightly alkaline.

4 Artificial Sweeteners Be Careful

Alternatives to sugar, as you know, are often very acidic, like xylitol, honey, and beet sugar. You might be safer using Stevia as it is high in alkaline.

5 Avoid Condiments

Do you know condiments like mayonnaise, ketchup,  mustard, miso, and peanut butter are highly acidic? Of course, eating a hot dog or burger plain without a sauce is difficult. The best option is to offset condiments’ acidity with other alkaline stuff. Your good choices are mango, melons, cantaloupe, apples, or carrots.

6 Limit Alcohol, Dairy, and Coffee

Wine, cheese, and coffee are all very acidic. You would also agree that this stuff can be challenging to give up. You may try to reduce your intake of these items simply.

Checking Your pH Levels

There are a couple of methods with which you can test the pH levels of your mouth. Did you know that hydrion pH test paper – can be used to test your saliva? You can do the test in the comfort of your home. You can purchase the kit from your local health food store. In addition, you can also get your pH level tested by your dentist at the clinic.

When should you test your pH level? The best time to test your pH levels is first thing in the morning before eating or drinking anything. If the levels are low, know that it is never too late to take the necessary steps to reach a healthy level.

pH Level Testing

If your pH level is below 7.0, acidemia might occur. Acidemia is the abnormal acidity of your blood. In such a condition, your mouth will be more susceptible to decay, recurrent decay, periodontitis, and even halitosis. 

Are your pH levels low? Remember, it is never too late to take steps to bring your body chemistry back into balance. Avoiding alkaline-producing foods and limiting acidic foods help balance your body chemistry – towards a more alkaline condition.

Other factors are also responsible. It may include removing excess concentrations of carbon dioxide in your body. To reduce deep breathing exercises – you can reduce stress too. The process will help maintain the pH balance in the body.

It is important to note that balanced body chemistry will also help protect your body and your teeth and gums from bacterial infections and other severe medical conditions. 

Contact our team if you have any further queries about the pH level in your mouth or anything relating to oral health. They can also help you better understand what you need to know about the pH levels of your oral cavity.

Do you sweat profusely? That can be annoying because sweat also releases an unpleasant smell. One solution to reduce sweating is to get underarm botox.

Sweating is normal and can actually be good for your health.

However, if it happens for no particular reason and no remedies or OTC treatments have successfully controlled it, you can consider getting botox.

Botox is a neurotoxin that is safe for cosmetic and medicinal purposes.

This article discusses how you can prevent excessive sweating by getting botox in your underarms.

Let’s know more about the procedure below.

 

Procedure for Underarm Botox

A dermatologist can inject botulinum toxin in both of your underarms in only 10 minutes. 

You should look for a doctor that is certified in using Botox and can provide treatment for excessive underarm sweating and not only wrinkles.

You can find details on physicians who work in using botox for sweating in the database of the International Hyperhidrosis Society.

The health professional will begin to insert botox using small injections, right beneath the skin.

They will use a grid pattern to inject where the injection sites are only 1 to 2 centimeters away.

The number of injections in each armpit may differ according to your situation but you will usually need 15 to 25 injections in each.

This may sound nightmarish but first, the doctor marks the areas with ink to inject Botox carefully and next, they will use a fine needle.

Hence, it will not be as painful but rather uncomfortable.

Before injecting, your doctor in a dermatological clinic will numb the skin using a local anesthetic or ice.

This prevents from feeling any pain.

The procedure can take 45 minutes in total.

You may wonder how that will affect underarm sweat.

Well, Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin which are chemical substances that affect the function and structure of the nervous system.

Botox injections, work on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

Neurotransmitters are essentially chemicals that tell your body to react in a certain way.

Acetylcholine binds to sweat glands in order to indicate a sweat release.

However, botox blocks acetylcholine’s release.

Therefore, the overactive nerves are now paralyzed and they cannot signal the sweat glands to release sweat.

It will not affect any touch or sensation in your arm rather it will treat excessive sweating only in areas where the botox was injected.

Does It Work?

Botox treatment for armpit sweat is FDA-approved.

These injections can reduce excessive sweating and underarm moisture significantly by 82 to 87 percent.

The results will take a while to show. It will take 2 to 4 days to see some changes while the full effect is achieved 2 weeks later.

The results will last for 3 to 12 months.

It is a temporary solution as you will need them again as booster injections.

Booster injections will be needed after every 7 to 16 months.

Besides that, the body odor will significantly decrease too.

This works as the odor stems from the bacteria that live in moist and warm areas. Once, you remove the moisture, the smell dispels too.

While sweating may reduce after the treatment, it will not exactly finish.

It is one of the axillary hyperhidrosis treatments. Since there may still be sweating, you cannot forego deodorant and antiperspirants. 

However, your doctor will advise you to avoid them for at least 12 to 24 hours after the procedure.

They will also recommend avoiding hot baths for a day or two to prevent irritation.

Though, the underarms are not the only place where there might be sweating.

In fact, areas of the body such as the hands, feet, head, face, chest, back and nose can get sweaty too.

However, getting botox injections at these parts can prove to be painful and result in side effects.

Since it can get a little complicated, you should only get these from an expert in the field.

They will also know who is not fit for getting botox.

For instance, people with Myasthenia Gravis should stay clear of it. They are not candidates for botox.

The doctor will also guide you on the preparations and aftercare of the procedure.

More below!

Underarm Botox Aftercare and Preparation

Before beginning the procedure, your doctor will book an appointment to know of any medical conditions you are suffering from.

Since it is not suited to everyone, let them know your medical history and whether you take any blood thinners.

You will need to stop blood thinners a few days prior to the treatment in order to prevent bruising.

Besides that, discuss all the medications you take and only stop them if your doctor instructs you to.

While coming to the clinic, they will guide about wearing the right clothes. This will probably be a short sleeves shirt to reach the underarms easily and one dark in color to prevent ink stains from showing.

Moreover, you should not shave your underarms 3 to 4 days prior to the procedure.

The aftercare is simple. You can go about your day as usual after the treatment without needing any downtime.

Though you should avoid applying deodorants, perfumes, antiperspirants, take a hot water shower and bath and exercise for the rest of the day.

Keep avoiding these for at least 12 to 24 hours or the time your doctor recommends.

Other than that, you will only feel tenderness around the treatment area. This will likely go away in a day or two.

The doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment at least a week or two later after the procedure ends.

This appointment will allow the doctor to see your progress and touch up any missing areas.

They will also schedule this to look for another thing, side effects.

Side effects of botox are rare but they are still possible.

Let’s find out about them below!

Side Effects

Botox underarms side effects can occur even if rarely.

They are generally safe to get.

The follow-up appointment with your doctor will highlight any of the side effects occurring so that you can treat them timely.

Among these, the common ones are:

• toxicity
• severe muscle weakness
• severe allergic reaction i.e. anaphylaxis
• skin irritation
• bleeding
• headache
• fatigue
• dry mouth
• pain at the injection site
• a bruise at the treatment area
• flu symptoms
• eye dryness, facial paralysis, droopy eyelid for facial botox injections

Muscle weakness is a common side effect of botox. Severe muscle weakness can cause asymmetry.

While this usually happens when the treatment site is the palm rather than the underarms, muscle weakness in the entire body needs immediate medical attention.

Other severe side effects include:

• vision problems facing difficulty seeing
• losing bladder control
• having skin rash and hives
• facing difficulty in speaking, breathing and swallowing

In case you are experiencing any of these symptoms, rush to your doctor to seek immediate medical attention.

Concerns 

Do you think that sweat is important for the body to cool off so will blocking its release affect how your body cools down?

Rest assured, getting botox in your armpits does not affect sweating in your entire body. Each area just has a fraction of sweat glands and in your underarms, there is only 2 percent of them.

Thus affecting the sweat glands in the underarms does not prevent your body from cooling down.

Also if you are concerned that sweating less in your underarms will increase sweating in the rest of the body then that isn’t true either.

There may be no side effects at all or minor side effects after the treatment.

Though, if you notice any concerning symptoms then visit your doctor soon.

Underarm Botox Pros and Cons

Pros 

It is a generally safe procedure with minimal side effects if any.

Moreover, it is effective and long-lasting. You can go without booster injections for as long as a year.

Since they reduce sweat release by 82 to 87 percent, the injections are highly effective.

Besides that, it is a less invasive procedure than surgery.

The pain resulting is also minimal and can be controlled with a local anesthetic or ice.

Cons 

Botox for underarms may be long-lasting but it is still temporary.

It is not a permanent solution to controlling excessive sweat. You will need booster injections eventually if you want the results to continue longer.

This treatment is also costly. The expenses are huge in comparison to dealing with sweating with deodorants and perfumes.

Plus, you will need booster injections after every 7 to 16 months which adds up the expenses.

You must also remember that Botox treatment is not FDA-approved for other areas of the body except for the underarms.

It can in fact be quite painful to inject them into the soles of the feet and the palms.

While the procedure is generally safe, there can always be a possibility of getting severe side effects. Keep that in mind before getting the treatment.

In Conclusion 

Now that you know the pros and cons, side effects as well as effectiveness of underarm botox, weigh your options to see if this is the right treatment for controlling your sweat.

Nonetheless, you will have sweat-free and odor-free underarms for a few months. Hence, you can choose to get the injections before a special occasion.

 

 

Is your squeaky clean face and makeup generally covered by grease and shine towards the afternoon? Are you curious to know who the culprit is? It is sebum – the excess oil secreted by the sebaceous glands present in your skin. Why do these glands exist and is it possible to control their activity? 

Sebaceous glands are microscopic organs in your skin that secrete an oily substance. The secretion is called sebum, which lubricates and waterproofs your skin.

The sebaceous glands are part of the integumentary system – which often includes the hair, skin, nails, and other structures that might help protect your body from env or physical damage. The glands are part of the pilosebaceous unit, which comprises the hair follicle, hair shaft, and erector pili muscles (responsible for your goosebumps). 

These pilosebaceous units are found everywhere on your body except the lower lip, palms of the hands, and tops and soles of the feet. The most significant concentrations of these units – are on the face, scalp, upper neck, and chest, where most acne outbreaks occur.

What Sebaceous Glands Do?

Depending on their location in your body, there can be anywhere from 2,500 to 6,000 sebaceous glands per square inch. The number is surprisingly high. While most of these sebaceous glands are connect to a hair follicle, some open directly to the skin surface. It may include the meibomian glands of the eyelids and the Fordyce spots of your lips and genitals.

These glands work in tandem with your eccrine glands, which produce sweat. They help regulate the body temperature. In hot conditions, these glands excrete sebum mixed with sweat to slow the rate of evaporation. In cold temperatures, your sebum will contain more lipids. These lipids will shield the hair and your skin from moisture that can facilitate heat loss.

Additionally, sebum contains squalene and other substances to maintain moisture and regulate temperatures. Squalene also prevents bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms from causing infection.

Functions

• Sebaceous glands, along with sweat glands, help to regulate your body temp. 
• Sebum’s composition is such that it helps prevent the entry of fungi, bacteria, and other microbes into the deeper layers.
• Sebum keeps your skin lubricated and prevents water loss.
• These glands make acids that form an acid mantle on the skin. The pH of this thin protective layer is 4.5 and 6.2. This pH level helps against the alkaline foreign substances.

What Is Sebum?

These glands are attached to your hair follicles and release natural oils called sebum. It comprises fats (like triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and cholesterol) and cellular debris.

In a scenario when your skin produces too much sebum due to overactive sebaceous glands, you tend to have oily skin. But when there is too little sebum due to underactive glands, you may have dry skin.

The oil you see on your skin’s surface is more than just sebum. In addition to sebum, it contains dead skin cells, sweat, and dirt.

Role in Pimples

Most of us associate the condition with sebaceous glands like pimples and acne. At the same time, the pores of your skin are great self-cleaning machines. But any accumulation of debris or dirt can combine with sebum. Resulting in the creation of a glue-like compound that can seal the entryway.

Once the pores on your skin are blocked, bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes can begin to multiply. Over time they thrive, leading to the development of a pus-filled bump you recognize as a pimple.

The colonization of bacteria may further trigger an immune response, thus leading to inflammation as your body tries to control the infection.

Hope you know that pimples are medically known as acne vulgaris. Acne that is severe and consolidated into boil-like pustules is commonly referred to as cystic acne.

You may also be aware that teenagers tend to be most vulnerable to pimples. Probably because the changes in hormones increase the volume of sebum during those years. The hormonal change also leads to the concentration of wax esters within it, which leads to thicker, gummier oils. Some of the most common treatments may include antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and anti-androgen drugs such as spironolactone.

Pimples might indeed result from hormonal imbalances – they can also be caused by steroids, contraceptives, and some immune-suppressing drugs. Pimples can also be mistaken for other conditions like folliculitis, lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei, and Demodex mites. However, these conditions are scarce.

How To Control Sebum Production?

You can use skincare products like moisturizers, cleansers, and serums that regulate the amount of sebum your skin makes. You can use a face cleanser if you have been struggling to find a gentle cleanser that may suit your oily skin. 

One of its key ingredients is niacinamide – which can control the overactive sebaceous glands and also minimizes sebum production.

One primary reason could be your diet – it could be why there is an overproduction of sebum in the skin. So try to avoid foods high in fats and sugars. Consult your doctor if you are worried about excess sebum on your skin.

Your doctor might suggest birth control pills if you have extremely oily skin. They may also examine acne and prescribe drugs that can reduce sebum production.

Gland Development

Do you know your baby’s sebaceous glands are first visible between weeks 13 and 16 – of the fetal development process? They emerge from the same stem cells that give rise to the fetus’s outermost layer of skin, called the epidermis. 

Following birth, the activity of these glands will gradually decrease and become nearly inactive between the ages of two and six. After this period, the production of sebum will steadily increase. It reaches an apex during puberty as boys and girls both experience a sudden spike in the male hormones (androgens).

The overproduction, combined with the routine shedding of dead skin cells – may clog pores and lead to blackheads. Blackheads are also known as open comedones, whiteheads or closed comedones, and pimples or acne.

Your sebum production will slow down by around 20, and it will continue to diminish the older you get. As this occurs, your skin can become drier and lose elasticity. These changes are referred to as sebostasis – which tend to occur in tandem with decreases in androgen production.

The loss of moisture and depletion of collagen and keratin can lead to characteristically dry skin (xerosis cutis) and brittle hair.

Role in Other Disorders

As you may be aware, pimples are the most common concern associated with the sebaceous glands. Other conditions may affect them as well:

• Seborrheic dermatitis – a chronic, mild form of dermatitis often caused by changes in the these glands.
• Nevus sebaceous – it is the development of a benign tumor on the skin surface. They are often visible on the neck, face, or scalp – which might sometimes turn cancerous.
• Rosacea – a chronic inflammatory, non-infectious disease of the sebaceous glands and also the connective tissues of the face
• Phymatous rosacea – is also a non-infectious skin condition often characterized by the overgrowth of these glands. 
• Sebaceous carcinoma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer.

Skin Care Tips

While hormones and genetics play a large part in the way these sebaceous glands work, there are certain things you can do to help them function properly:

• Stay well hydrated. Indeed, dehydration does not cause acne. But it can lead to the thickening of sebum as your eccrine glands are deprived of water. Generally speaking, try drinking around eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day to stay hydrated. Drink more if you are overweight. 
• Avoid harsh cleansers. Harsh ones can cause dryness and flaking that may further potentiate pore blockage.
• Use a warm compress. If you often have blocked pores, wash with a medicated soap. Later hold a warm, moist washcloth against your skin to dissolve the sebum build-up.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure. A little sun may indeed help improve acne. But anything more could cause dryness and inflammation. Limit your exposure to no more than 15 minutes every day. Always wear sunblock or sunscreen.
• Moisturize. You do not need an expensive product to replace lost collagen. Instead, you should find a non-oily cream or lotion made especially for the face. By replenishing the moisture, your sebaceous glands can not, you can slow down the aging-related damage. In the process, it improves your overall skin quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sebaceous hyperplasia?

People with overactive sebaceous glands might have a relatively common condition commonly known as sebaceous hyperplasia. This condition typically causes small, skin-colored bumps that generally appear on the skin. These small bumps are glands that have become enlarged and are often visible on the skin.

Where are sweat glands located?

Sweat glands in your body are located in nearly every area. The only places in the body that do not contain sweat glands are the lips, nail beds, external ear canal, and specific parts of the genitals.

Do Fordyce spots have a cure?

Fordyce spots are harmless. So generally, a cure or treatment is not necessary. Fordyce spots are tiny, yellowish, non-cancerous bumps that can appear on the outer edge of your lips and genitals. If they become irritated or itchy, your doctor may prescribe a mild topical steroid to offer relief.

Read other related articles on hair follicle, hair transplant, and more

When you think about coconut oil’s health benefits, the last thing that would probably come to your mind is rubbing the edible plant’s grease oil all over your skin and hair. But today, dermatologists and a growing body of scientific studies – are starting to bring the plant’s potential to light. You would be surprised to know that coconut oil has unique ingredients – that do magic to your skin and hair.

Coconut oil is a highly versatile health and beauty product. You might use it for all sorts of things, from cooking and cleaning to moisturizing your skin and removing makeup. Others may use the oil to help improve the health and condition of your hair. Here we explore the pros and cons of using the oil on your skin and hair.

Coconut Oil For Your Skin

The oil has long been considered a beauty cure-all. This sweet-smelling oil would magically disappear your skin conditions like acne (acne scar treatment) and eczema. It can make your hair grow thicker and longer.

The good news is the oil is a great beauty staple that can be used for several things – including the skin- and hair-care treatments. It is important to note that the wonderfully moisturizing ingredient can be used in plenty of beauty products and skin-care routines. It also works well. But no, the oil will not “cure” you of anything at the end of the day.

The oil may not be the wonder drug given its composition. But the oil can serve as an excellent moisturizer. Plus, some of the fatty acids in the oil, like lauric acid, have antimicrobial effects that can significantly help fight the virus, bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens.

And there is another reason coconut oil can make such a good moisturizer. The oil is solid just below room temperature – which we chemists define as 77 degrees. But it melts quickly when warmed with hands and efficiently into your skin with massage. Therefore, it is less messy to apply when in the semisolid state. Therefore, if you want straight coconut oil for skin care, it is best to store it away from the heat.

Now, as you are a little more about what coconut oil does, here we talk about some of its many uses. 

1. Body Moisturizer

Because the oil is relatively comedogenic, many dermatologists do not recommend it for use on the face. Especially if you have naturally blemish-prone skin. Instead of using the oil to moisturize your face as it may cause breakouts, you can use it as a moisturizer for the body. Probably because the oil is rich in fatty acids. Moreover, it has both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Do you know that skin on your face has more sebaceous glands than other body parts? Thus making it prone to oiliness. The most significant difference is that the skin on your face usually is thinner than the skin on your body. Moreover, the skin cell turnover rate on your face is faster, which explains why your body’s skin can be drier. The oil is an excellent moisturizer; you can use it to moisturize any body part. 

2. Eczema Relief

The keyword here is that the oil will not cure any conditions, including eczema. But it can help mitigate some of the symptoms, like itchiness and dryness. 

The oil can help the skin barrier and seal moisture. The oil is excellent for those with sensitive skin and eczema. The best option is to apply any other skincare you may want and seal it all with coconut oil.

3. Makeup Remover

The oil is a great makeup remover as it can easily break down lipid-soluble impurities like makeup and sebum, which is responsible for oily skin. If you wear a lot of makeup, you can use coconut oil as an initial cleanse. The oil can actually do a reasonably good job as it can help get rid of dirt and oil buildup that accumulates throughout the day. 

4. Body Scrub

If your limbs look dull and feel like sandpaper – you can use coconut oil to whip up your body scrub. You can exfoliate with it for brighter and softer skin. The oil may actually help counteract the irritation caused by exfoliation. It could be an ideal option for people with sensitive skin to test out exfoliation. 

5. Highlight your cheeks.

Nothing perks up a tired face like a bit of a highlighter. Simply sweep a small amount of organic oil on top of makeup and leave it alone. Your skin will start glowing – which is why many natural makeup brands use the oil as a base ingredient in their formulas. 

Why Choose Coconut Oil For Your Hair?

Coconut oil is a unique combination of natural fats, making it helpful in treating the skin. These fatty acids include linoleic acid, which is beneficial for acne-prone skin. The oil also contains up to 50 percent lauric acid – which is hydrating and antimicrobial. 

Several studies show that coconut oil – extracted from the meat of mature coconuts can help improve skin barrier function. The oil can also repair your skin with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Therefore, it can fight the signs of skin aging and make an effective moisturizer.

And, when your cookies smell like coconut oil – is there anything more luscious than coconut oil? Yes, you can think of fantastic beauty uses for coconut oil that does not require spending a fortune. All you need is one thing- raw, preferably organic virgin coconut oil.

Now, as tempted as you might be to use it on your peeling sunburn (hello, trapped heat!) or on a fresh cut (stick to antibiotic ointment), you may want to hit pause. 

It is important to note that coconut oil will not work for every ailment or every skin type. Especially if you are acne-prone – since it may clog the pores. Instead, these are the natural few DIY coconut oil tricks your doctor may recommend.

1. Deep Conditioner

Are you struggling with dry, brittle hair that is damaged and even prone to breakage? The oil can be a great thing to condition. Or you can leave it in to help repair the hair damage that occurs to your hair shafts from heat, coloring, and the sun. Leave the oil for at least an hour to let it sink in and penetrate your strands.

Most hair conditioners often contain coconut oil because it quickly penetrates your hair strands and can even prevent protein loss. Just apply a quarter-sized dollop to your hair, comb it – and let it rest by piling it into a loose bun. You may place a soft towel over your pillow or sleep in a shower cap. In the morning, just rinse with a gentle shampoo. 

2. Minimizes Dandruff

Coconut oil is beneficial for your hair as it can help lower the levels of yeast on the skin that drive flaking, inflammation, and itching. All of which are associated with dandruff. 

Therefore, you can try minimizing the problem with an ultra-moisturizing coconut oil treatment. Only heat 2 or 3 tablespoons of oil on the stove over a low flame. Once the oil liquefies, immediately remove it from the stove. This is to avoid the hair getting too hot.

Then, gently massage the oil into your scalp. If you have oil left over, you can use it to coat the rest of your hair. Next, allow the oil to sit on your scalp for 30 minutes. Finally, wash it out with shampoo.

3. Tame frizz

Are you struggling to tame your mane? Coconut oil can help. Only rub a tiny bit of coconut oil between the pads of your fingers. And then, run through the frizzy areas to leave your hair looking polished and smooth. 

You can also easily use frizz-fighting serums as an alternative to straight oil. These serums contain a good portion of the oil to nourish and strengthen the hair.

Conclusion

The oil may have several benefits for your hair, scalp, and skin. Using it as a hair mask and leave-in treatment may help moisturize and seal hair. The oil can also help prevent dry, flaky scalp, dandruff, split ends, and hair breakage. The oil is also good for the skin and is a good moisturizer. 

For these reasons, the oil may make your hair look longer, shinier, and stronger. If you have any questions, you can talk to your dermatologist.

Read more about coconut oil benefits, castor oil, castor oil benefits, oil pulling, tree tea oil, and  more.

High triglycerides levels, also known as hypertriglyceridemia may not cause symptoms.

However, its high levels can indicate underlying issues and are risk factors that lead to a number of health conditions.

In people with other risk factors, regular tests for triglyceride levels are important.

This is because doctors can easily identify when they raise and check for related diseases including high cholesterol.

With the help of dietary changes and an increase in physical activity, you can form the first line of treatment to bring down high triglycerides.

Moreover, in some cases, doctors can also recommend medications to speed up this effect.

General guidelines recommend that most healthy adults should get a test to check the levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and both HDL and LDL.

While the increase in levels falls into categories of Moderate hypertriglyceridemia: 150–499 mg/dl, Severe hypertriglyceridemia: 500 mg/dl or more, and Very severe hypertriglyceridemia: 880 mg/dl or more.

Keep on reading to learn more about high triglycerides.

Risk of High Triglycerides Levels

It is important to note that triglycerides are a type of fat.

According to the American Heart Association, AHA, triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body.

Though your body naturally makes triglycerides, some may come from the food you consume.

Moreover, when you eat a meal, your body takes the excess calories that it does not immediately need and turns them into triglycerides.

This can cause triglyceride levels to rise temporarily after a meal.

Your body stores this as fat to bur when it needs energy between meals.

Regular eating too many calories can lead to high triglycerides levels and if your body cannot burn off these calories, and stores them as fat, you can have higher triglyceride levels overall.

Furthermore, having consistent high triglyceride levels can increase your risk of some health issues like atherosclerosis.

In this condition, triglycerides mix with other substances in the blood, like cholesterol, and stick to the wall of the arteries.

This causes them to narrow.

Atherosclerosis is a risk factor for heart disease and serious cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.

Also, high triglyceride levels can also increase the risk of other issues in the organs.

These can include fat accumulation in the liver or pancreas.

A buildup of fat can lead to inflammation and dysfunction in these areas if you do not seek treatment.

Severely high levels of triglycerides can also cause pancreatitis.

However, research in JAMA Internal Medicine found that even mild to moderate high triglycerides which authors define as nonfasting levels of 177 milligrams per deciliter, mg/dL, and above are associated with an increase in the risk of pancreatitis.

Additionally, high triglycerides themselves do not cause symptoms.

But the only sure way to identify the issue and seek medical advice is to test for high triglyceride levels.

Your doctor can suggest when and how often you need lipid screening depending on your age and cardiovascular risk factors.

Different Triglyceride Levels

Triglycerides are common fat in your bloodstream and there is also a normal part of your body.

Moreover, they are important for your body.

It is only when levels get abnormally high, that you may be at risk of negative health effects.

With the help of testing, you can find triglyceride levels in your blood.

As triglyceride levels increase, they tend to fall into the categories below:

• Moderate hypertriglyceridemia: 150–499 mg/dl
• Severe hypertriglyceridemia: 500 mg/dl or more
• Very severe hypertriglyceridemia: 880 mg/dl or more

However, desirable fasting levels of triglycerides are less than 150 mg/dL.

Triglyceride screening is often just one part of the lipid profile blood test.

Moreover, this test also checks for total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, LDL or bad cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein, HDL or good cholesterol.

Your doctor can make specific recommendations ahead of the test.

For instance, they may ask you to fast for 8 to 12 hours beforehand.

Getting Tested

The ideal frequency of testing depends on your age and other cardiovascular risk factors.

According to the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, adults should undergo a cholesterol test every 4 to 6 years.

The standard cholesterol test or lipid profile will help measure triglyceride levels.

Moreover, the test is simple and requires taking blood to test the contents.

You may also need to fast before the test.

This is because fasting can help avoid the natural rise in triglyceride levels that occur right after a meal.

It will help your doctor get a better idea of baseline levels.

Casues of High Triglycerides

Triglyceride levels can fluctuate naturally in response to a number of factors.

These include calorie intake and time of the day.

Eating a meal can cause an increase in triglyceride, which your body may store to use later when it needs energy.

However, these fluctuations are usually short-lived.

But they are part of the reason why doctors may ask you to fast before getting a lipid profile blood test.

While some health conditions can also increase the risk of high triglyceride levels.

According to AHA, these are:

• pregnancy
• metabolic syndrome
• insulin resistance
• having excess body weight or obesity
• diabetes
• hypothyroidism
• kidney disease
• inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis

Moreover, in some cases, you may also have inherited geans that predispose you to high triglyceride levels.

Overall your diet trends also affect blood triglycerides including excess sugar intake, especially from processed foods, high intake of saturated fats, alcohol consumption, and excess calorie intake.

While some medications can also be responsible for changes in triglyceride levels.

These are:

• diuretics
• steroids
• beta-blockers
• immunosuppressant drugs
• hormone medications

Thus, if you are uncertain about the side effects of your specific medication, seek medical advice or speak with your doctor.

Treatment Options

You can use a few treatments to help lower the high triglyceride levels:

Diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet, and exercising regularly is a key to maintaining healthy blood triglyceride levels.

You can adopt these measures immediately to bring down the levels.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, doctors may advise making these changes before they prescribe medications.

Moreover, they can also recommend they you reduce the intake of:

• sugars
• alcohol
• foods high in saturated fats
• foods high in trans fat

A report in the journal circulation notes that a focus on a heart-healthy diet can help bring triglyceride levels down naturally.

Furthermore, a heart-healthy diet emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and healthy proteins like low-fat dairy, low-fat poultry, fish, seafood, and nontropical vegetable oils.

You can adjust this diet to suit your calorie needs and food preferences.

Exercise

Exercise is an important factor for your overall health and is an excellent way to burn extra calories and work out your heart and other muscles.

The physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults should aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week.

In case you are new to exercise and feel as though you cannot accomplish these goals, you can consider working with a doctor or physical therapist.

These healthcare professionals can help to create a workout plan that gradually introduces exercise and builds it up to these recommended levels.

Medications

In some cases, doctors can recommend medications to lower high triglycerides.

They can do this if changes to diet and exercise prove ineffective or if it is critical that you get your triglyceride levels down quickly.

In such cases, doctors can prescribe medications like:

• prescription strength fish oil
• statins
• fibrates

Each of these medications has its own effects and can interact with other drugs.

You should make the doctor aware of any other medications you are taking so that you can create a treatment plan that avoids drug interactions.

When to See a Doctor?

In case high triglyceride levels are not often the cause of symptoms, if you are uncertain or concerned about your triglyceride levels, you should consult your doctor.

Moreover, any adult who has not had a lipid profile test in the last 4 to 6 years should speak with a doctor about their cardiovascular risk factors and the possible need for the test.

Catching elevated levels of health markers like triglycerides or cholesterol at an early stay can help you to make changes earlier to address the underlying issue.

Final Thoughts

High triglycerides, often do not cause symptoms, however, levels of triglycerides and other markers like cholesterol can be important indicators. Guidelines recommend that most healthy adults should take a test to check these levels every 4 to 6 years.

While temporary fluctuations in triglyceride levels are normal, issues that can increase their level may need treatment. With the help of simple diet and lifestyle choices, you can help lower high triglycerides. Moreover, you can talk with a doctor to find specific treatments based on personal factors.

To lower high triglycerides you can lower calorie intake, choose the right fats, have fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and nuts,  reduce sugar, carbs, soft drinks, exercise, or take drugs after consulting your doctor or healthcare professional. According to AHA, triglyceride levels of up to 150 mg/dL are within the normal range, while they recommend keeping levels below 100 mg/dL for optimum health.

Need an instant boost of Vitamins? A Vitamin IV Drip Therapy can provide just that through direct absorption in the bloodstream.

The other names for this therapy are hydration therapy and intravenous micronutrient therapy.

Directly getting the high amounts of vitamins and minerals in the bloodstream leads to quick absorption of these vitamin doses producing faster results.

This article discusses how you can benefit from this treatment.

Know about how it works, and the benefits it can have for your skin as well as the entire body.

What Does a Vitamin IV Drip Consist Of?

This intravenous therapy delivers micronutrients i.e. vitamins and minerals through a small tube that inserts into the vein.

It usually lasts for 20 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the veins and volume of the cocktail.

When it comes to compositions, most use Myer’s cocktail formula.

It is popular among the alternative and complementary medicine providers for the IV drip.

So what does Myer’s cocktail formula entail?

Well, it has a bunch of nutrients that will give you a healthy boost whether it comes to skin or overall health.

Developed by Dr. John Myers, this formula consists of high doses of Vitamins B and C alongside minerals such as calcium and magnesium mixed with sterile water.

Though the composition can vary for different vitamin drips.

Your doctor can infuse any mineral or vitamin intravenously. Hence, there are modified Myer’s cocktails with different amounts of vitamins catering to older and younger people.

Furthermore, the composition can differ according to the purpose of the IV Vitamin Treatments.

For instance, an IV infusion for the skin may contain Vitamin B complex, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin C but also Glutathione, IV Fluids and Zinc.

Certain IV vitamin infusions will also allow you to add additional minerals such as magnesium, amino acids blend, Vitamin D or Biotin with your doctor’s permission.

Let’s know how all of these can impact your skin below.

Skin Benefits

Vitamin B Complex 

B Complex Vitamins such as Vitamin B1 thiamine, B2, B3, B6 and Vitamin B5 pantothenic acid look after a lot of your skin needs.

• Vitamin B1 Thiamine prevents breakouts
• Riboflavin Vitamin B2 maintains collagen, speeds wound healing, helps in cell turnover and protects skin integrity
• Niacin B3 has skin conditioning properties that heal skin conditions such as acne, eczema, dry skin, rosacea, dermatitis, wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation
• Panthothenic acid Vitamin B5 maintains moisture
• Vitamin B6 prevents premature aging, reduces stress and improves cell regeneration by improving your sleep

Vitamin C

It activates the body to make more collagen.

This smoothens the fine lines and wrinkles, making your skin appear firmer and supple.

Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of Vitamin C prevent free radicals from harming your skin through wrinkles and sun spots.

It also strengthens your hair and keeps them strong so the benefits go beyond the skin.

Zinc 

It reduces the formation of free radicals. Thus, it is important in healing, rejuvenating and protecting the skin.

It also protects skin cells as a result, lessening the exposure to aging substances and skin damage.

Zinc has another benefit, it can boost the immune system. All the while also lessening inflammation, thus it can fight well against an acne flare-up.

Vitamin B12 

Cobalamin or Vitamin B12 is important in cell production. Therefore, it promotes the healthy growth of nails, hair, and skin alongside reducing excessive oil, skin inflammation, redness and acne blemishes.

Glutathione 

It is the antioxidant and detoxifying agent you need.

It will eliminate toxins in the body resulting in wellness and maintaining your youth.

IV Fluids 

The presence of IV fluid brings back the body fluids to your skin.

Providing oxygen and treating chapped, flaky, scaly and dry skin.

Other benefits of Iv Vitamin therapy below!

Vitamin IV Drip Benefits

Vitamin infusion through the IV is usually for people who cannot take the nutrients orally or disease prevents their absorption in the body.

However, recently it has also been popular as a skin treatment for people of all ages.

It can also enhance wellness in people who do not necessarily suffer from vitamin deficiencies.

Thus receiving an IV vitamin infusion drip can benefit in ways such as:

• relieving mental health problems such as anxiety, stress and depression
• treating hangover and dehydration after alcohol intake
• treating headaches, migraine and tension headaches as well as dehydration after exercising vigorously
• eliminating toxins present in the body
• making the skin healthy
• reducing fatigue and tiredness while increasing energy levels
• treating medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, allergies, Parkinson’s disease, acute muscle spasms, fibromyalgia, and chronic sinusitis.
• can enhance the skin tone, and improve its clarity and texture thus resulting in skin lightening
• improves general well being
• weight loss therapy infusions can hydrate and replace lost fluids from sweating and cause muscle tissue to rebuild and heal so you get stronger

According to sellers, infusions may also be more beneficial than dietary vitamin sources.

The amount of vitamins and minerals in these drips may be generally higher than that present in the supplements.

Plus, they directly end up in the bloodstream.

Their path is rather more direct where they can get into the cells and mitochondria and start benefiting the body.

Moreover, the infusions can be effective for people who have food sensitivities and show allergic reactions to several other food items.

Hence, they may be restricted to avail vitamins, minerals and other nutrients through food.

However, they can still enhance their wellness by getting it through a vitamin IV drip.

Vitamin IV Drip Therapy Side Effects

Vitamin IV therapy side effects are not far and few in between.

In fact, like every other intravenous treatment, it can make the body susceptible to blood clots, infection and burning sensations right at the injection site.

Vitamin drip is not an exception.

Some studies claim that this combination of nutrients can also lead to upset stomach, depression and insomnia.

People suffering from high blood pressure or heart disease can result in fluid overdose.

This may either, temporarily or permanently damage the kidneys, heart or brain.

Some vitamins should not be consumed in excess. For instance, large doses of Vitamin B1 can cause anaphylaxis whereas that of Vitamin B6 can lead to peripheral neuropathy.

People who have abnormalities in blood levels of minerals potassium and minerals can suffer from muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms.

This can happen in people who use diuretics, alcohol or have kidney disease.

Plus, if the infusion is given too quickly then it can result in lower blood pressure. This usually happens because of magnesium, hence causing lightheadedness and fainting.

Besides that, there is not much evidence on how the drip works with women who are pregnant and breastfeeding.

However, to be on the safe side, expectant and breastfeeding mothers should refrain from getting the drip.

There is no strong evidence of the effectiveness of IV vitamin drips.

The best way to obtain certain minerals and vitamins through diet still remains through diet.

While there can be exceptions such as Vitamin B12 and iron, that is mostly the case for other vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

However, if you are getting the therapy nonetheless, keep in mind some considerations and drug interaction.

Knowing the precautions beforehand can prevent long-term problems after the infusion.

Drug Interactions and Consideration

Drug Interactions 

The vitamins and minerals that interact with the drugs depend on what is present in the drip and their dosage.

For instance, Ceftriaxone is a treatment for bacterial infection. But this injected treatment also binds with the infused calcium that is in the blood from a drip.

This is a damaging combination that can harm the kidney, gallbladder and lungs.

Therefore, if you are taking the treatment currently and are suffering from an infection, forego calcium in the drip.

Moreover, people suffering from chronic kidney disease or cancer should not take intravenous Vitamin B6.

It can react with drugs that result in the production of blood cells such as epoetin alfa.

In the same vein, mineral magnesium may react with antihypertensives. Thus, leading to lower blood pressure.

Considerations 

The safety of vitamin therapy is yet unclear. Influencers on social media may claim it to be magical for skin but healthy people should proceed with caution.

Do not opt for a vitamin Iv drip at home unless your doctor suggests it.

People that suffer from heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid the high doses of IV therapy.

Those that do not suffer from vitamin deficiencies or are on any medications should consult their doctor before using any high-dose IV therapy.

Proceed only when you are cleared by your doctor to get the IV drip.

In Conclusion, 

Vitamin IV drip can have benefits for your skin and general well-being.

However, a healthy person may not need a high dosage of vitamins.

Therefore, consult your doctor before proceeding to get these treatments just because they are the talk of the town.

Don’t forget to discuss prior medical conditions and current medications to know if you should even go through with it.

 

Do you have pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve? This is sciatica pain.

Sciatica pain refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which braces from your lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg.

In most cases, sciatica affects only one side of your body.

Moreover, sciatica most commonly occurs when a herniated disc, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine, i.e. spinal stenosis, compresses part of the nerve.

This can lead to inflammation, pain, and in most cases numbness in the affected leg.

Though the pain associated with sciatica can be severe, most cases tend to resolve with non-operative treatments in a few weeks.

In case people who have severe sciatica that comes along with significant leg weakness or bowel or bladder changes may be the candidates for surgery.

Keep on reading.

Symptoms of Sciatica Pain

In case you experiencing pain that shoots from your lower back through the buttock area and into your lower limbs, it is sciatica.

Moreover, sciatica is the result of damage or injury to the sciatic nerve, so other symptoms of nerve damage are often present along with pain.

While some other symptoms may be:

• pain that gets worse with movement
• numbness, burning, or weakness in your legs or feet along with the sciatic nerve pathway, and can also becomes a loss of feeling or movement in severe cases
• a sensation of pins and needles which also involves tingling in the toes or feet
• incontinence, the inability to control bladder or bowel movements, which is a rare symptom of cauda equine syndrome, It calls for immediate emergency attention.

Causes of Sciaitca Pain

Sciatica pain can occur due to a number of reasons or conditions that involve your spine and can also affect the nerves that run along your back.

it can also occur due to an injury, like falling, or spinal or sciatic nerve tumors.

The common condition that causes sciatic are:

Herniated Discs

Your vertebrae or spinal bones are separated by discs made of cartilage.

Cartilage contains a thick, clean material that helps to make sure there is flexibility and cushioning while your move around.

In the case of a herniated disc, the first layer of cartilage rips.

As a result, the substance inside can bulge outward or completely spill out of the disc and compress on the sciatic nerve.

Thus resulting in lower limb pain and numbness.

It is estimated that about 1 to 5% of all people will have back pain that occurs by a slipped disc at some point in their lives.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis or lumbar spinal stenosis is characterized by the abnormal narrowing of your lower spinal cord.

Moreover, this narrowing tends to put pressure on the spinal cord and your sciatic nerve roots.

Spondylolisthesis

This is a condition that is associated condition of degenerative disc disorder.

When one spinal bone, or vertebrae, extends forward over another, the extended spinal bone will pinch nerves that make your sciatic nerve.

Piriformis Syndrome

It is a rare neuromuscular disorder in which your piriformis muscle involuntarily contracts or tightens, causing sciatica.

Moreover, this is the muscle that connects the lower portion of your spine to the thighbones.

When it tightens, it tends to put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica pain.

Furthermore, piriformis syndrome can worsen in case you sit for long periods of time, fall, or experience a car crash.

Learn more about What is Back Pain? here.

Risk Factors of Developing Sciatica

It is important to note that certain behaviors can raise your risk of developing sciatica.

The most common factors for developing sciatic are:

• as your body age, it becomes more likely for the body parts to wear out or break down
• certain careers tend to put a lot of strain on your back, especially those that involve lifting heavy objects, sitting for extended periods of time, or twisting movements.
• having diabetes can also increase your risk for nerve damage
• smoking can cause the outer layer of the spinal discs to break down
• being obese can also be associated with sciatica

Learn more about Why and How Should You Quit Smoking here.

Diagnosis for Sciatic Pain

One of the important things to note is that sciatica pain tends to vary from one person to another.

And it also depends on the condition that causes it.

In order to diagnose sciatica, your doctor will first want to get your full medical history.

This will include whether you have had recent injuries, where you feel the pain, and how the pain feels.

Moreover, they will also want to know what makes the pain better, what makes it worst, and how and when it started.

The next step is the physical exam to test your muscle strength and reflexes.

During this, your doctor will ask you to do some stretching and moving exercises to find which activities cause more pain.

The next round of tests for diagnosis is for people who have dealt with sciatica for longer than a month or have chronic conditions like cancer.

Furthermore, a nerve test will allow your doctor to examine how your sciatic nerve is conducting nerve impulses and learn if there are any abnormalities.

These tests can help them to locate the area involved and the degree to which the impulses are being slowed.

Imaging Tests for Sciatica

Your doctor can also take a look at your spine through imaging tests that will help them to determine the cause of your sciatica.

The most common imaging tests that the doctor can use to diagnose sciatica and finds its cause are:

• X-ray
• MRI
• CT scan

Normal x-rays will not be able to provide a view of sciatic nerve damage.

However, they can show bony abnormalities that can push on the sciatic nerve or decrease disc spaces that may suggest disc herniations.

An MRI uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of your back.

While a CT scan uses radiation to create detailed images of your body.

Your doctor can order a CT myelogram.

For this test, they will inject a special dye into the spine to help produce clearer pictures of your spinal cord and nerves.

Treatment Options

When you receive a diagnosis of sciatica, your doctor will give you tips to treat your pain.

It is important that you continue your daily activities as much as possible.

Lying in your bed or avoiding activity can worsen your condition.

Some commonly suggested at-home treatments are:

Cold and Heat

You can use ice packs or even use a package of frozen vegetables.

Wrap the ice pack or frozen vegetables in a towel and apply to the affected area for short intervals a number of times per day, during the first days of symptoms.

This will help to reduce swelling and ease the pain.

On the other hand, you can also use hot packs or a heating pad.

Doctors recommend that you use ice during the first couple of days to reduce swelling.

After 2 or 3 days, switch to heat.

heat will help to relax muscles in your back which can spasm when an injury occurs.

However, if you continue to have pain, try alternating between ice and heat therapy.

Stretching

Gently stretching your lower back can help.

Make sure to learn how to stretch properly, and get one-on-one physical therapy or even yoga instruction from a physical therapist or instructor trained to deal with your injury.

Moreover, you can also look for videos online to help you find the proper stretches.

Also, make sure to consult a medical professional first before starting a stretching routine.

Over-the-Counter Medications.

OCT medications like aspirin and iburophen can help with pain, inflammation, and swelling.

However, be careful about using aspirin excessively as it can cause complications like stomach bleeding and ulcers.

Regular Exercise

The more you stay active, the more endorphins your body will release.

Endorphins are pain relievers that your body makes, so stick to low-impact activities like swimming and stationary bicycle.

As your pain decreases and your endurance improves, create an exercise regimen that includes:

• aerobics
• core stability
• strength training

A regimen with these components will help to decrease the risk of future back issues.

However, make sure to talk with a medical professional or seek medical advice before starting a new exercise routine.

Physical Therapy

Exercises in physical therapy can help to improve posture and strengthen your back muscles.

Prescription Medication

In some cases, doctors may prescribe prescription medication and muscle relaxers, pain relievers, oral steroids, or anticonvulsants.

Epidural Steroid Medication

Corticosteroid medication that your doctor injects into an area in epidural space, which is the canal that surrounds your spinal cord.

Due to its side effects, these injections are given on a limited basis.

Surgery

In case you have severe pain or situations in which you lose control of your bowel and bladder or are developing weakness in certain muscle groups of the lower extremity, your doctor will recommend surgery.

The two most common types of surgery are:

• Discectomy: In this part of the disc that is pressing on the nerve that makes up the sciatic disc will be removed
• microdiscectomy: In this, the doctor will remove the disc through a small cut while they use a microscope

Prevention Tips

The following steps can help you to prevent sciatica or keep it from occurring again:

Exercise Often: Strengthening your back muscles and your core muscles is the key to maintaining a healthy back.

Check your Posture: Make sure that the chair you use offers proper support for your main.

Place your feet on the floor, while sitting and use your armrests.

Mind how you Move: While lifting heavy objects, make sure you do it in a proper way.

Bend at your knees, and keep your back straight while doing so.

Natural Treatment

Complementary medicine is growing in popularity, and there are a number of remedies that can help with sciatica pain.

These are:

In Acupuncture, a practitioner will insert sterilized needles into specific points.

These will help improve your back pain symptoms.

A massage therapist can apply motion, pressure, tension, or vibration to your body to help relieve pressure and sciatic symptoms.

You can ask your doctor for a referral to a specialist who performs biofeed therapy.

It is a mind-body technique that helps to improve back pain and chronic pain.

Moreover, with this technique, your doctor will use electrical sensors to help understand how your body responds to stress and pain.

Committing to a mindfulness meditation practice can help to reduce pain and increase your quality of life.

Seeking Help

It is important to seek immediate medical attention or medical advice if you experience the following:

• pain after severe injury or accident
• sudden, excruciating pain in the lower back or leg that is coupled with numbness or muscles weakness in the same leg
• unable to control the bladder or bowels

Cauda Equina Syndrome

In rare cases, a herniated disc can press on nerves that can cause you to lose control of your bowel or bladder.

This condition is Cada Equino Syndrome.

Moreover, it can cause numbness or tingling in your groin area, a decrease in sexual sensation, and paralysis if you do not get treatment.

It is important to note that this disorder develops slowly and you should go to your doctor or an emergency room if the symptoms appear.

The symptoms of this disorder can also include:

• an inability to control the bladder or bowels resulting in incontinence or retention of waste
• pain in one or both of your legs
• numbness in one or both of your legs
• weakness in one or both of your legs, making it hard to get up after sitting
• stumbling when you try to get up
• a noticeable progression or sudden or severe loss of feeling in the lower body which includes the area between your legs, buttock, inner thighs, heels, and entire foot

Final Thoughts

Sciatica pain is a painful sensation that occurs when the sciatica nerve is irritated, and if you have this, you can feel moderate to severe pain in addition to weakness or numbness in your back, buttocks, and legs.

With the help of cold and hot compresses, stretching, over-the-counter pain medications, and regular exercising, you can manage your pain.

Moreover, you can also talk with your doctor about physical therapy, prescription medication, a steroid medication, and surgery for severe situations. While using complementary treatment along with medical treatment can also provide further relief.

Kidney infection or pyelonephritis is a type of urinary tract infection, UTI.

It generally begins in your urethra or bladder and travels to one or both of your kidneys.

In most cases, the bacteria that cause this infection come from another part of the urinary tract like the bladder, ureters, or urethra.

Moreover, kidney infections commonly affect people who already have a bladder infection, females, and pregnant people.

People who experience the symptoms of kidney infection should seek medical advice or medical attention as soon as possible.

This is because this condition can cause permanent kidney damage or spread to other parts of the body.

Keep in reading to learn more about the symptoms of kidney infection and how your doctor will diagnose and treat it.

Signs and Symptoms of a Kidney Infection

You can develop a kidney infection quickly within a day or a few hours.

Moreover, the kidney infection symptoms are:

• diarrhea
• nausea and vomiting
• chills or shivering
• lower back pain
• pain in the groin
• pain in the side
• fever

Furthermore, if there is a corresponding urinary tract infection or UTI, you may also experience pain or difficulty while urinating.

This may feel like a burning or stinging sensation.

While some other symptoms are bloody urine, cloudy urine, foul-smelling urine, and frequent urination.

Furthermore, the inability to fully empty the bladder, pain in the lower abdomen, and confusion are symptoms of kidney infection.

Males vs. Females

It is important to note that males and females have similar symptoms if they have a kidney infection.

However, females are more likely to contract a kidney infection.

This is because the urethra of a female is typically shorter than that of a male.

Moreover, the vagina of a female and anus are closer to the urethra and this makes it easier for the bacteria to enter the body via the urinary tract.

Pregnant females are also more likely to develop a UTI or kidney infection.

On the other hand, male under the age of 65 presenting with a URI is likely to have the possibility of other conditions ruled out first.

Doctors can check them for other types of infection and for signs of a UTI.

Understanding Urinary Tract

Your urinary tract consists of:

Kidney: The majority of humans have two kidneys, one on either side of the abdomen.

Your kidneys are responsible for removing poisonous substances from the blood.

Ureters: Urine passes from the kidneys to the bladder through tubes: ureters.

Each kidney has one ureter connecting it to the bladder.

Bladder: This is a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine.

Urethra: A tube that carries from the bladder to outside the body.

In men, the urethra travels down the middle of the penis to an opening at the end.

However, in females, the urethra runs from the bladder to just above the vaginal opening.

The urethra in females is shorter than in males.

Causes of a Kidney Infection

A kidney infection occurs due to bacteria or viruses entering the urethra and reproducing in the bladder, thus triggering an infection.

In most cases, a kidney infection is the result of a bladder infection that travels to the kidneys.

An infection can take place due to:

• transference from bowel to genital during sexual intercourse
• accidentally transferring feces to the urethra while wiping with toilet paper after a bowel movement
• contracting a UTI

While risk factors of kidney infection are kidney stones, having a urinary catheter, an enlarged prostate in males, pregnancy, and diabetes.

Some other risk factors are:

• having urinary tract reflux where the urinary tract allows urine to flow or flow of urine back up into the ureters
• a weakened immune system due to the use of medications or a medical condition
• a spinal cord injury or nerve damage that can block symptoms of a bladder infection
• having a urinary tract shaped in a way where urine may not pass through easily
• vesicoureteral reflux where the urinary tract allows urine to flow back into the ureters

Diagnosis of a Kidney Infection

A medical professional will check your medical history for health conditions that link to kidney infection.

While diagnostic procedures may include:

Physical Examination

A medical professional will carry out a physical examination, where they will check your general state of health.

This will include your:

• heart rate
• blood pressure
• temperature
• signs of dehydration
• respiratory rate

Moreover, a healthcare professional will also check or assess the mid to lower back for pain, sensitivity, or tenderness.

Rectal Examination

In case the person is male, a medical professional may check for enlarged prostate that blocks the neck of the bladder and urethra using a digital rectal examination.

Pelvic Examination

In case the person is a young female, the doctor will examine the pelvic examination to verify whether there is any asymptomatic pelvic inflammatory disease.

Moreover, a female may also need to take a pregnancy test.

Urine Sample

You may need to collect a mid-stream urine sample in a special container for lab analysis.

If the urine sample contains bacteria and white blood cells, it can indicate an infection.

Moreover, they can also do urine culture.

Both symptoms and lab results can help to make a diagnosis.

Imaging

A health care professional may ask for imaging of the kidney area that includes a CT scan, MRI Scan, or ultrasound.

Complications of a Kidney Infection

When you do not seek prompt treatment for a kidney infection, there is a risk of seriuos complications.

These are:

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis, EPN

This is a very rare, potentially fatal complication.

EPN is a severe infection in which the necrotizing bacteria destroy the kidney tissues.

Symptoms of this condition are:

• fever
• nausea
• abdominal pain
• vomiting
• confusion

While risk factors include women living with diabetes. You may need surgery if you have this condition.

This condition can be life threatening if you do not seek treatment.

Kidney Abscesses

Pus can accumulate in the kidney tissues in abscesses.

Symptoms are blood in urine, weight loss, and abdominal pain.

In some cases, surgery is necessary to drain the pus, while risk factors are kidney stones, pregnancy, and diabetes.

Acute Renal Failure

One of both of your kidneys may stop working and you may need dialysis while treatment starts to take effect.

Thus causing kidney failure.

Renal Vein Thrombosis

A blood clot in one of the major kidney veins can result in a lack of blood in the organ.

Moreover, this condition can cause acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease

Blood Poisoning or Sepsis

Sepsis is a medical emergency that needs swift medical diagnosis and treatment.

It results in dropping blood pressure, thus affecting blood circulation.

Furthermore, blood can be moving so slowly that it begins to clot within the blood vessels and your kidneys may begin to fail if the blood is not circulating correctly.

Symptoms of sepsis are edema, difficulty breathing, fatigue, nausea, seizures, confusion, and coma.

Risk of Complications

Anyone who suspects they have a kidney infection should seek prompt medical attention.

Moreover, kidney infection may especially cause complications in:

• males
• pregnant females who might have asymptomatic infections
• people with an obstruction in the tubes from kidneys
• immunocompromised people adults over the age of 80
• hydronephrosis, or swelling of one or both kidneys as a result of a blockage in the ureter or an anatomical abnormality
• kidney stones or renal tract calculi
• a rare, abnormal connection between the bladder and the colon or colovesical fistula
• someone with a catheter inserted or as a result of relying on a catheter after medical procedures
• infections that occur or persist despite good treatment

Treatment Options

In case your doctor suspects kidney your doctor will order a test for urine.

The usual course of treatment for a kidney infection is antibiotics, though in some cases, you may be among people who require other forms of treatment.

Antibiotics

In case your symptoms suggest an infection, a healthcare professional will prescribe antibiotics before the test results return.

Moreover, you will need to take pain relief.

When taking antibiotics, you must finish the whole course of medicine.

When the results return, a medical professional may change the antibiotic to one that will more effectively treat the infection.

Furthermore, the antibiotics prescribed depend on you presenting with the infection and your medical history.

You may be sensitive to certain antibiotics.

The first treatment often involves general antibiotics with stronger medication available if the first one fails.

Also, antibiotics for the treatment of kidney infection are nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim, fosfomycin, pivmecillinam hydrochloride, amoxicillin, cephalexin, ciprofloxacin, cefuroxime, and co-amoxiclav.

Fluids

With a kidney infection, you should consume plenty of fluids to help prevent fever and dehydration.

Fluid intake recommendations may vary, depending on the type of infection.

Hospital Treatment

In case your symptoms are not improving, or are becoming more severe, you may need treatment in the hospital.

You will have antibiotics administered intravenously through a vein in the arm.

However, if you experience dehydration, a doctor will administer fluids with a drip.

Most cases of hospitalization do not last more than 3 to 7 days.

Surgery

In case you have kidney stones or enlarged prostate that is blocking the urinary tract, you may need treatment through surgery.

Prevention Tips

In most cases, a kidney infection is a result of a preexisting infection in the urinary tract.

The way to help prevent a kidney infection is by taking steps to avoid an infection in the urethra or bladder.

Some tips are:

Hydration: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water

Urination: Urinate whenever there is an urge, and do not wait.

Sexual Intercourse: Make sure to urinate after sexual intercourse and wash the genitalia before and after intercourse.

Hygiene: Wash the genitals every day and do not use deodorant sprays or a douche on the genitals.

Toilet Hygiene: After passing the stool, wipe the anus from front to back as this will help to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria to the genitals.

Fiber: Eat plenty of fiber so that stools come out easily and do not cause irritation or skin lesion.

While constipation increases the risk of developing a kidney infection and a lack of fiber has links to kidney stones.

Final Thoughts

A kidney infection is a result of a number of conditions, while the most common one is UTi. Females of all ages and males over 65 years are more likely to contract a kidney infection. While most of these resolve themselves with plenty of fluids, preferably water, and a short course of action, some may need additional treatment. In females when the urethra is shorter or pregnant women can have an infection.

You should consult with a medical professional or seek medical advice if you suspect a kidney infection. Some infections can lead to more serious conditions that will need hospital treatment. You can reduce your chances of contracting a kidney infection by maintaining good hygiene and good tiled habits after passing stool, wiping front to back after passing stool, and urinating and washing the genitals after sexual intercourse.

We all know it is tough to recognize yourself in the mirror. Whether it is your age, motherhood, or weight fluctuation – your bodies change over time. Are you wondering about getting rid of belly fat? 

Thanks to new technologies. You would be surprised to know that it is now possible to reduce stubborn fat pockets and improve your body contours without surgery, scars, or downtime. However, today there are a few viable options to reduce stubborn fat pockets or belly fat without surgery.

Non-surgical fat reduction primarily includes minimally invasive treatments that selectively break down fat cells in specific areas of your body. It can help reduce the size of subcutaneous fat pockets. These fat pockets are fat deposits that usually sit beneath the skin but above your muscle.

Today there are several FDA cleared treatments available. These procedures help achieve gradual, modest fat loss without surgery or downtime. Continue reading to learn about the different treatment options and what they can achieve.

Is Non-surgical Fat Reduction of Belly Fat a Good Option?

Patients near their ideal body weight do not need significant reshaping in that area. Non-surgical treatments may be a great option to reduce isolated pockets of diet and exercise-resistant fat without surgery. Surgery has its negative side. 

You can quickly reduce your belly fat with little to no downtime. However, it is essential to have realistic expectations about what results any of the non-surgical treatments can provide.

A Quick Summary of What Causes Belly Fat

As you might be aware, many biological factors affect belly fat – hormones, age, gender, and genetics. It is important to note that hormones play a large part in determining where fat is stored in your body.

Depending on your gender, you will typically have varying levels of estrogen. Hormones and estrogen affect how much fat is stored in different parts of your body.

It is important to note that genetics heavily influence the development of belly fat. Moreover, your inherited body type may be the most significant factor in how much resistant and stubborn fat you have. Last but not least, both men and women will store more belly fat as they grow older.

Not all fat is the same. There is subcutaneous fat on your skin’s surface. In addition, visceral fat is dangerous fat present in your abdominal cavity that wraps around organs. Fat cells are also not all the same. 

Do you know that fat cells with more Alpha-2 receptors store fat long-term, called stubborn fat? Fat cells with more Beta-2 receptors generally break down when your body needs energy. 

Those body parts with stubborn bulges likely have more fat cells consisting of Alpha-2 receptors. It means that body fat clings to the body. Therefore, it is challenging to reduce this stubborn fat commonly by diet and exercise alone.

Benefits of Non-surgical Fat Reduction

• The procedure requires little to no downtime
• No general anesthesia, scars, or incisions.
• Side effects of the methods are minimal for most patients.
• The gradual onset of results allows patients to be discreet about treatments.
• Final results can last as long as a patient maintains their weight.

Limitations

• Reduces belly fat only – requires minimal sculpting ability compared to liposuction.
• We cannot choose precisely how much fat is lost, only estimate a percentage.
• Note that multiple treatments may be needed to achieve desired results.
• It may not be suitable for individuals with significant amounts of fat to lose.

No cosmetic procedure, surgical or non-surgical – all intended for weight loss. Treatments will not significantly change your weight. But they are adequate to some extent. But a healthy lifestyle and weight maintenance are equally essential to maintain results.

Non-Surgical Body Contouring: Which One To Opt for Belly Fat Reduction

Non-surgical body contouring often includes much more than fat reduction. Today, you have options to smooth cellulite, rejuvenate vaginal tissues, tighten skin, and remove unwanted hair. But most importantly, it reduces belly fat. The guide below outlines a few of the many options.

The best way to learn whether non-surgical fat reduction suits your goals is to consult an experienced cosmetic surgeon. They are trained in both surgical and non-surgical techniques. They can help you choose the right treatment option for your needs.

Non-surgical fat reduction treatments

Outlined below are some of the common FDA-cleared treatments – that are generally available today.

1. Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis is a popular, non-invasive technology that uses freezing temperatures to dismantle fat cells. Thus helping to reduce a fat pocket or belly fat. A cupped or paneled device is placed on top of your skin in the treatment area.

Where it transmits temperatures that are just low enough to freeze away your fat cells, finally destroying them. Because your muscle, skin, and nerve tissue freeze at a lower temperature than fat -these tissues remain unharmed. CoolSculpting Dubai is one of the brand names of cryolipolysis.

Fast facts about CoolSculpting

• FDA has cleared the procedure for hips, abdomen, inner or outer thighs, back (“bra rolls”), upper arms, under the buttock, and under the chin.
• The procedure is best for patients who wish to reduce the size of a fat bulge with very little reshaping.
• Studies show that you can reduce 25 percent of fat per treatment typically..
• Each treatment session takes 35 to 60 minutes to perform. Any discomfort is typically mild and may include an intense cold feeling.
• Common side effects include mild, temporary swelling, redness, numbness, and tingling. Serious or lasting side effects are extremely rare.
• You can expect satisfactory results after 1 to 2 treatments.
• Results are generally noticeable within 1 month, and final results are visible after 2-3 months.

2. Laser Treatment

Laser fat reduction is also effective. It works by dismantling subcutaneous fat using controlled heat. Your specialist will deliver a specific laser wavelength that is delivered through your skin. As a result, it will heat your fatty tissues to the point where these fat cells begin to break down.

The constant cooling mechanism ensures that skin is not damaged in the process. SculpSure is the brand name of this non-invasive laser technology.

Fast facts about SculpSure

• FDA cleared for abdomen, belly fat, and flanks. It can be used in other areas too.
• Treatment is typically painless, and you may feel a warming sensation.
• Treatment usually takes 25 minutes per area.
• Results are noticeable in only 6 weeks and final in about 12 weeks. 
• Results should last, barring significant weight gain.

Ultrasound Fat Reduction

Ultrasound fat reduction generally uses highly focused sonic waves that help break down fat cell walls in the treatment area. Thereby it releases the fat inside to be metabolized by your body. Finally, reducing the size of a fat deposit. 

The ultrasound energy generally transmits through the skin, creating rapid pressure changes that often cause the fat cells to break down. At the same time, it will leave the surrounding tissues unharmed. 

FDA has already cleared ultrasound fat reduction treatments. UltraShape is one such brand name in this area. It uses pulsed ultrasound technology. In contrast, Liposonix uses a high-intensity focused ultrasound.

Fast facts about ultrasound fat reduction

• The procedure is intended for use on the abdomen and flanks.
• Note that ultrasound is non-invasive, and no downtime is necessary. 
• Typically anyone would require 1 to 3 treatments spaced 2 weeks apart. Solely depending on treatment.
• You will find that the results appear gradually. But they are final within 6 to 12 weeks
• Note that destroyed fat cells do not grow back. Therefore, results can last with weight maintenance.

Red Light Therapy

One of the newest technologies used for non-surgical fat reduction uses red light therapy. Light therapy reduces the volume of subcutaneous fat cells. Instead of removing or destroying fat cells, this photonic lipolysis, or red light therapy, delivers specific wavelengths of light through your skin. 

Your specialist will use a specialized lamp to create this light with a specific wavelength. This light triggers selected fat cells in your skin to create small openings and release some of their contents. In the process, it will help the skin to reduce in size. FDA-cleared treatments that use photonic lipolysis or red light therapy include UltraSlim.

Fast facts about red light therapy fat reduction

• Red light therapy is intended to treat the hips, abdomen, or thighs; your cosmetic surgeon may use it for additional areas to like your belly fat.
• Treatment is noninvasive, and no downtime is required. 
• The treatment would take about 30 minutes to perform.
• Results start to appear within a few hours after treatment. They continue to improve as your body metabolizes the fat.
• Fat released by this procedure is naturally eliminated as waste.
• People typically choose to have 3 or more treatments in order to achieve their goals.
• Note that – results can last as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight.
• Red light therapy is a very low-risk treatment with no noticeable side effects. However, if you are pregnant or have reduced liver function, you should not undergo this treatment.

Conclusion

You have dieted. You have exercised. Finally, you have lost weight. But you still have those stubborn bulges that do not want to disappear. If you are ready to move on and take steps to achieve the body you desire, it might be time to consider a non-invasive fat-removal procedure like the above.

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