Here's what the latest research says about migraines and how it can help you today

And then a throb hits you on the left ide of the head so hard that your head bobs to the right...There's no way that came from inside your head, you think. That's no metaphysical crisis. God just punched you in the face.”

This description of a migraine headache by Andrew Levy in the book A Brain Wider Than the Sky: A Migraine Diary captures the dire agony of migraine. According to Mayo Clinic, migraine causes severe throbbing or pulsing pain, usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine is a terribly painful disease that according to the Migraine Research Foundation, affects an astounding 38 million Americans and 1 billion people worldwide. In fact, migraine is the third most prevalent and sixth most debilitating disease in the world

One of the most frustrating aspects of migraine is not knowing the definitive cause and therefore having no surefire cure. However, many migraine sufferers are aware of certain "triggers," many of which are related to diet. In fact, The Cleveland Clinic names caffeine and alcohol, in addition to aged cheese, deli meats that contain nitrates, pickled foods, freshly baked breads, onions, avocados, and even some fresh fruits, like ripe bananas, citrus fruits, papaya, and kiwi as common migraine triggers.

Why and how certain foods lead to migraines has long been a mystery. Until now.

The Guardian recently reported a new and exciting study published in the medical journal mSystems, which found migraine sufferers have higher levels of gut bacteria involved in processing nitrates. Researchers explain when nitrates are broken down by bacteria in the mouth and stomach, the chemical is converted into nitric oxide in the blood stream. When nitric oxide is used to intentionally dilate blood vessels, as in cardiac interventions, it is not uncommon for patients to experience excruciating headaches. Given this new study, researchers now suspect nitric oxide is a direct cause of migraine.

For migraine sufferers, this new research may be monumental. According to researchers, the study has inspired some scientists to imagine the possibility of developing "a magical probiotic mouthwash" that would balance the gut bacteria and thus prevent migraines. But in the meantime, victims of migraine can take measures to cut down their nitrate consumption.

An article on the website for celebrity fitness guru Jillian Michaelsidentifies processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, ham, and sausage, as well as root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, as well as spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower as among the foods with the highest concentration of nitrates

One of the most frustrating aspects of migraine is not knowing the definitive cause and therefore having no surefire cure. However, many migraine sufferers are aware of certain "triggers," many of which are related to diet. In fact, The Cleveland Clinic names caffeine and alcohol, in addition to aged cheese, deli meats that contain nitrates, pickled foods, freshly baked breads, onions, avocados, and even some fresh fruits, like ripe bananas, citrus fruits, papaya, and kiwi as common migraine triggers.

Why and how certain foods lead to migraines has long been a mystery. Until now.

The Guardian recently reported a new and exciting study published in the medical journal mSystems, which found migraine sufferers have higher levels of gut bacteria involved in processing nitrates. Researchers explain when nitrates are broken down by bacteria in the mouth and stomach, the chemical is converted into nitric oxide in the blood stream. When nitric oxide is used to intentionally dilate blood vessels, as in cardiac interventions, it is not uncommon for patients to experience excruciating headaches. Given this new study, researchers now suspect nitric oxide is a direct cause of migraine.

For migraine sufferers, this new research may be monumental. According to researchers, the study has inspired some scientists to imagine the possibility of developing "a magical probiotic mouthwash" that would balance the gut bacteria and thus prevent migraines. But in the meantime, victims of migraine can take measures to cut down their nitrate consumption.

An article on the website for celebrity fitness guru Jillian Michaelsidentifies processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, ham, and sausage, as well as root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, as well as spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower as among the foods with the highest concentration of nitrates

Prevent the flu with these home remedies

The flu is serious business. According to the Mayo Clinic News Network, up to 40,000 Americans die from flu annually. An additional 250,000 people are hospitalized. To protect yourself, it is important to receive the flu shot. In addition, there are a number of home remedies you can adopt to protect you and your family against not just the flu, but also a host of other ailments this winter.

1. Disinfect surfaces. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, explains disinfecting is the only way to kill germs. Cleaning and sanitizing only reduce the number of germs or remove them from a surface. It is recommended to use an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill germs on surfaces and objects that are touched often, such as doorknobs, computer keyboards, countertops, and phones.

2. Drink tea. Health.com recommends drinking tea all winter. This is because the steam stimulates the hairs in the noise that move germs out of the nose. Ear, nose, and throat specialist at Cedar-Sinai Hospital Dr. Murray Grossman recommends adding lemon to thin mucus and honey as an anti-bacterial.

3. Energy therapy. Julia Millspaugh, RN suggests a strategy she uses on her own patients to unblock energy and help the body fight infection. She told Health.com all it takes it putting the right hand on the top of the head and the left hand in between the eyebrows. With your hands in this position, take slow, cleansing breathes for a full 5 minutes. Millspaugh recommends starting every single day with this simple exercise for optimum health.

4. Eight hours sleep. Prevention reports a study by Carnegie Mellon that found people who sleep 8 hours a night are 30 per cent less likely than those who sleep just one hour less to get sick.

5. Vegetable juice. A nutritious diet is key to maintaining a high-functioning immune system. This is why paramedic Kristina Economou told Health.com her secret for staying healthy during flu season is starting each morning with a juice made from such nutritious vegetables as kale, broccoli, apple, arugula, parsley, cucumber, carrots, Swiss chard, lemon, and mint.

6. Meditate. A study by the University of Wisconsin found that daily meditation reduced a person's risk of illness by 40 to 50 per cent. ABC News explains this is because meditation reduces the immune system-weakening effects of stress.

7. Garlic. Eating garlic helps fight viruses, Dr. Richard Nahas, assistant professor of family medicine at University of Ottawa told ABC News. For best results, it is recommended to eat 2 cloves raw garlic daily.

8. Qigong. This ancient Chinese practice combines breathing control and slow movements to reduce stress and combat illness, reports ABC News. To learn a qigong exercise you can practice daily, watch the below video.

Which home remedies work for you? Tell us when you SHARE this article on social media!

The flu shot: What you need to know

As flu season approaches, you may be wondering whether or not you and your children should get flu shots. There are many myths about the flu shot that may have you concerned. We're here to tell you the facts. Plain and simple. Here are your questions answered by the experts.

1. Will the flu shot give me the flu? No. According to vaccine expert Dr. Gregory Poland in an article for Mayo Clinic, "It's impossible for [the flu shot] the "cause" flu." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further explain, the flu vaccine works by causing antibodies that protect against the flu virus (not the virus itself) to develop in the body.

2. But haven't people died from the flu shot? Rarely. Health Impact News lists just 42 claims filed in 2013 with the Department of Justice for injury or death due to flu vaccine. However, nearly 60 per cent of those who filed claims were afflicted with a severe paralytic disorder known as Gullian-Barré Syndrome, and are part of the small population which the CDC does not recommended get a flu shot. For the overwhelming majority of the population, the flu shot is safe.

3. So who should get the flu shot? The CDC recommends all persons over the age 6 months get a flu shot. The only people who should avoid the flu shot are infants under 6 months, individuals with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, and people with life-threatening allergies to any ingredient in the vaccine, which includes gelatin and antibiotics. Otherwise, all people over the age of 6 months are recommended to get a flu shot.

6. Even pregnant women? Yes! Dr. Poland explains, "Today's flu vaccines are safe for expectant mothers and highly recommended." He goes on to discuss a recent study which demonstrated higher rates of death among pregnant women who were not vaccinated. The CDC echoes Dr. Poland's recommendation that pregnant women be vaccinated, citing a study which found babies whose mothers received flu shots when expecting where protected from flu as developing fetuses, as well as months after birth.

7. But what about children? Does flu shot cause autism? No way. The myth dates to 1998, when a British gastroenterologist published a study of 12 children linking the vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), to gastrointestinal problems he believed led to autism. Parents Magazine explains the 18 year-old study had nothing to do with the flu vaccine. Further, at least seven large-scale studies (much larger than 12 test subjects) published in major medical journals have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The bottom line is that no medical research supports the claim that vaccines cause autism. Research reported by the CDC does however, show that from 2010-2012, flu shots in children reduced pediatric intensive care unit admission for flu by an astounding 74 per cent.

8. Okay. But is the flu actually that serious? Yes. "No one should confused influenza with a 'minor illness,'" stresses Dr. Poland. "In an average year, up to 40,000 Americans die from influenza and its complications, and over 250,000 are hospitalized."

9. And what about side effects of the flu shot? Not bad. Often, patients suffer no side-effects. When side-effects do occur, they can include soreness, redness, or swelling at the site of injection as well as a low-grade fever and aches. However, the CDC stresses, "These side effects are mild and short-lasting, especially when compared to symptoms of bad case of flu."

10. Is there an optimal time to get a flu shot? Kind of. The CDCexplains, in the United States, flu season runs from October until May. Because the vaccine takes up to two weeks to take full effect, it is best to be vaccinated as soon as possible. However, as Dr. Poland says, "It's never too late to get a flu vaccine."

11. If I've had the flu shot before, I don't need it again this year, right? Not true! The CDC and NHS Choices both explain that because the strain of influenza changes every year, medical researchers and scientists work hard to formulate a new flu virus every year that specifically tackles the strains of flu virus predicted to circulate that particular year.

Now that you know the facts, you can make an informed decision. Spread the word by SHARING this article on social media.

Prevent an asthma attack by avoiding these triggers

If you have asthma, you are not alone. In the United States, every 1 in 12 people suffers from asthma. Worldwide, there are an estimated 300 million people with asthma, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Those 300 million people around the globe know just how frightening and sudden an asthma attack can be.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asthma attacks are caused by "triggers" that make it difficult for air to get into the lungs and thus restrict breathing. When this happens, an asthma attack is triggered.

Everybody is different and consequentially has different triggers. In order to best manage your symptoms, keep a journal noting the date and severity of an asthma attack, as well as possible triggers. Ask yourself, what kind of environment was I in? What was I exposed to? What could I have possibly inhaled? It is easier to answer the latter questions when you know both typical and less usual triggers. Continue reading to learn what triggers may be affecting you:

Most Common Triggers

1. Pets. You may love your cuddly friend, but be wary that Health.comreports the AAAAI statistic that up to 30 per cent of people with asthma are allergic to dogs and other household pets. If you can't part with your dog or cat, take preventative measures by bathing him or her at least once a week.

2. Dust mites. This is the big one. Health.com reports up to 90 per cent of allergic asthma sufferers are affected by dust mites. The best ways to reduce your exposure is to use a vacuum with an HEPA filter and to sleep on allergen-resistent bedding.

3. Cold air. For some asthma sufferers, cold air restricts airways. This is why Health.com recommends wearing a scarf that covers your nose and mouth when braving the chilly winter air.

4. Plug-in room air fresheners. If you like your home smelling like fall, you may want to opt for boiling cinnamon sticks in water, instead of a plug-in room freshener. According to Health.com, these little devices contain dangerous ozone and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can wreak havoc on the airways.

Less Talked About Triggers

1. Thunderstorms. You may be surprised to learn that the rate of hospitalization for asthma attacks increases after a thunderstorm. Allergist and immunologist Dr. Myron J. Zitt explains in Everyday Health, this is because airborne allergens are released and spread during a thunderstorm.

2. Laughing or crying. Expressing intense emotions is one of the best parts of being human. But be careful next time you laugh so hard you cry. According to Dr. Zitt, heavy laughter and intense crying "is a form of hyperventilation, which, like exercise, tends to trigger an asthmatic response."

3. Stress. Stress is bad for your overall health, and can be especially dangerous to asthma sufferers. Everyday Health reports a massive study of more than 200,000 people found that psychological stress is strongly linked to asthma symptoms.

4. Food additives. There are many reasons to choose whole fruits and vegetables over packaged foods. Dr. Zitt warns food additives that contain the word "sulfite" in them (used to preserve, color, and flavor food) are among the most asthmatic. Deli meats high in nitrates, yellow food coloring containing tartrazine, and MSG are other food additives linked to asthma.

Treat shoulder pain with these home remedies

If you're experiencing shoulder pain without suspecting a broken bone, use this handy self-diagnosis tool from Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation center The Stone Clinic. Try the following recommended home remedies and do your best not to strain or put pressure on the shoulder. We're almost certain you'll feel better. But if not, it's time to see a doctor.

1. Stretch arm across the chest. To relieve pain in the right shoulder, hold your right hand out in front of you at waist height. Reach your left hand behind your elbow and gently pull your right arm to the left and across the chest. Hold for 30- 60 seconds, relax, and repeat 3- 5 times. Reverse for pain in the left shoulder. Genesis Orthopedics and Sports Medicine says if you do this and you still feel pain, lower the arm until the pain subsides. The goal is to do this exercise without experiencing pain.

2. Neck Release. Sitting upright, slowly lower the chin until you feel tension in the back of the neck. Taking care not to strain, lean the head to the left. You should feel the stretch in the right shoulder. Hold for up to 1 minute. Repeat on the opposite side. Genesis recommends repeating on both sides 3- 5 times for best results.

3. Chest Expansion. For this exercise, you will need an exercise band, rope, strap, or tie. Hold the band behind your back, grasping it with both hands. Draw the shoulders back and gently lift the chin toward the ceiling. Genesis says to breath deeply for 10- 15 seconds and then release before repeating 3- 5 times.

4. 90-90 shoulder stretch. Begin by standing in a doorway. Raise your arms so the elbows are at a 90-degree angle and the forearms form 90-degree angles with the rest of the body. Place each hand on one of the sides of the door frame. Stand so one foot is forward and the body is upright, the neck aligned with the spine. Lean forward, bracing yourself against the door frame. Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, as instructed by Genesis.

5. Turmeric pain reliever. Home Remedy Hacks recommends applying a home remedy of coconut or olive oil mixed with turmeric directly to the shoulder in order to benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Take precautions not to lie down, as the turmeric will stain.

6. Garlic. Like turmeric, garlic is anti-inflammatory. To relieve pain, massage garlic oil into the strained shoulder, says Home Remedy Hacks.

7. Stand straight. It sounds simple, but Arthritis Research UK explains the importance of good posture in treating shoulder pain and preventing it from getting worse. Check yourself when sitting that you're not slouching and when standing that your head is in line with your shoulders. Always make an effort to keep your shoulder blades up and back. Small adjustments can make a monumental difference.

8. Sleep right. If shoulder pain makes it difficult to sleep, try this supported sleep position, as suggested by Arthritis Research UK. Lay on your good side with a pillow under your neck and a pillow in front of the body so you have a place to prop up your arm.

Which of these home remedies worked for you? Tell us when you SHAREthis article on social media!

Oil pulling may not just improve your appearance, but it could positively impact your health too

What is the secret to getting having a beautiful smile and fresh breath? The answer may surprise you. Oil pulling may not be a term you are familiar with, but it’s actually an age-old method for oral health. In fact, oil pulling is popping up again as a go-to remedy for gingivitis, plaque, teeth-whitening, and bad breath. That’s right; certain oils can help you prevent some gum diseases and maintain healthy teeth. 

Oil pulling is not a new method, but it’s gaining popularity once again. In a time where people are interested in natural remedies, it’s no wonder that people want to know more about this ancient technique. And the great news is that it’s not based on pseudo-science, but real results! What is this exactly? Let’s discuss. 

How were oils used throughout history?
As mentioned, oil pulling is not modern day medicine. According to WebMD, this oral therapy dates back almost 3,000 years. It is considered an Ayurvedic medicine, which is a traditional Indian system. Oils were used before the concept of toothpaste or toothbrushes came to exist. Instead, people relied on the natural remedy of oils to cleanse their mouths and protect them from tooth decay and oral diseases. 

How does it work?
Oil pulling, or swishing, as it is sometimes referred is actually a simple process. The idea is to swish oils in your mouth for 20 minutes per day. However, when first starting it is a good idea to build up to that amount of time. For the first few days, start pulling for about 5-10 minutes. You can gradually increase time. 

You should not swallow the oils. Using a small amount will reduce the risk of consuming. When you are finished, remember to spit the oil in a trash can rather than your sink because it could cause a clog. 

Which oils are recommended for use?
With so many oils to choose from, which ones actually work for oil pulling? According to Live Science, five oils are the most common: coconut, palm, olive, sesame, and sunflower. Coconut oil tends to be the more attractive option, but the oil can turn to a solid if temperatures are too low. Sesame, sunflower, and coconut blended creates a detoxing mixture that proves beneficial to oral health.

What are the benefits?
While oil pulling should never take the place of brushing and flossing, it does have its perks. Primarily used to whiten teeth and freshen breath, there are a few other added benefits as well. According to Live Science, some people use the oils to curb symptoms of TMJ and other jaw-related pains. Food Matters indicates that the properties found in oils are an excellent toxin cleanse. As such, oil pulling becomes a great source for detoxing the body, reducing headaches, and keeping skin clear. 

Who knew so much could be accomplished by one simple method? Tell your friends about oil pulling!

Reflexology to control diabetes and diabetes symptoms

There is some very good news for diabetics. A 2014 study reports reflexology therapy may be effective in reducing neuropathic pain from diabetes and improving the quality of life for patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, people with diabetes can develop painful nerve damage known as neuropathy. Symptoms can be light, manifesting as a tingling sensation, or excruciating, as in stabbing pain. They can also be frightening, as when hands, arms, feet, or legs fall numb. An astonishing 60 to 70 percent of diabetics experience neuropathy in one form or another.

Modern Reflexology recommends the following techniques to treat pain from neuropathy in the hands and feet.

For neuropathy in the feet, target the pressure point a thumb-width below the ankle bone on the inside folds of the leg. This is known as K6. Use your thumb to apply steady pressure to the pressure point

To treat numbness and pain in the upper limbs, apply pressure to L10, located on the center of the thumb pad on the palm side of the hand.

For diabetics without neuropathy, reflexology can help you too!

Healthy Ojas recommends a foot massage to help maintain healthy blood-glucose levels. Reflexology works because such therapy stimulates the stomach, intestine, liver, pancreas, and muscle cells – all of which are connected to carbohydrate and glucose metabolism

Ask a loved one, or use your own magic fingers, to massage points in the feet associated with the endocrine system and organs that are a cause of or effected by high blood sugar levels. According to Healthy Ojas, those are the pituitary, pineal, thyroid, thymus, adrenal, and pancreas glands, and testes or ovaries.

For more tips on using reflexology to control diabetes, refer to the below YouTube video by At Peace Media. After you've seen the video and tried the reflexology techniques, SHARE your thoughts with this article on social media!