Everyday stresses can lead to anxiety, impacting one’s ability to focus. To address this growing concern, dietitian Darya Rusakova recently offered valuable insights about calming beverages, as reported by Evening Moscow.
According to Rusakova, it is important to choose caffeine-free teas. She emphasizes the effectiveness of herbal infusions such as chamomile, mint, lavender, and lemon balm. These drinks can provide relaxation and mental clarity. "It is important to choose caffeine-free teas," she remarked, highlighting the benefits of herbal blends often containing valerian and other relaxing plants.
During stressful moments or near emotional breakdowns, Rusakova recommends giving someone experiencing high anxiety a glass of cold water. The act of drinking can distract them and help redirect blood flow due to the digestive system's reaction to the temperature of the beverage. Despite various options, herbal teas remain the preferred choice for relaxation, concluded the dietitian.
While managing stress and anxiety is important, dietary choices also play a significant role in overall health. Recent warnings have been issued by dietitian Anna Komissarova against the increasingly popular carnivore diet, which consists solely of animal-based products. Reported by Lenta, she explains how this diet can lead to health risks.
Komissarova points out, "The absence of plant components leads to increased saturated fat consumption." This increased intake may raise cholesterol levels, elevatnig the risk of heart attacks and strokes. She also notes the danger posed by excessive consumption of red meat, which could increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
The carnivore diet not only lacks necessary nutrients but also promotes digestive issues. The exclusion of fruits, vegetables, and grains can lead to problems with bowel movement and deteriorate gut microbiota health. Komissarova warns about strict dietary restrictions potentially fostering eating disorders.
Shifting the focus to more conventional foods, dietitian O. Redina has discussed the impact of potatoes on weight management. She asserts, contrary to common belief, potatoes do not hinder weight loss if consumed wisely. This was detailed during her conversation with Evening Moscow.
Redina states, "Potatoes do not hinder weight loss if consumed wisely," explaining their caloric content is relatively low when prepared properly. She mentions how baked or boiled potatoes are healthier than their deep-fried counterparts like chips. Including potatoes is feasible even for those aiming to reduce their weight, provided they combine them with protein-rich foods such as lean meats.
For effective weight control, Redina advises against eliminating specific food items from one's diet. Instead, she advocates for balanced eating and considering overall caloric intake to maintain health without compromising enjoyment.
On another front, misconceptions about health recommendations can significantly misinform dietary habits. Nutrigenetic expert A. Zolotarev, speaking with Lenta, has addressed several common myths.
One such myth is the necessity of drinking at least two liters of water daily. Zolotarev clarifies, "The need for water depends on various factors, not strictly two liters daily." An adult with no chronic conditions only requires about 25–30 mL of water per kilogram of body weight. Drinking excessively can lead to discomfort, frequent urination, and depletion of nutrients.
Another common practice, frequent showering, can be detrimental. Zolotarev warns against the overuse of soaps and body washes, stating, "Excessive use can damage the skin's hydrolipid barrier, leading to dryness and irritation." For those needing to wash often, he recommends using moisturizers afterward to maintain skin health.
Excessive physical activity is also cautioned against. Zolotarev points out, especially for individuals with conditions like influenza, diabetes, allergies, stomach ulcers, or arrhythmias, aggressive workouts may not always be beneficial. Likewise, he highlights the common practice of brushing teeth after every meal, saying adults only need to brush twice daily for optimal dental health.
Finally, Zolotarev tackles popular detox methods like juice diets and intermittent fasting, warning these regimes can negatively affect gut microbiota and disrupt bodily balance. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining common sense and balance within any diet.
By presenting this expert advice, it is clear the path to health and wellness is not always straightforward; rather, it involves discernment, informed choices, and moderation.