Does anyone NOT like Nutella? The nutty, creamy, gooey, chocolatey pleasure that melts in your mouth is to die for. Nutella turns desserts into heavenly delights. So, when someone tells you that Nutella is awful for you, it breaks your heart.
Such are the accusations of various social media posts that claim Nutella is poison in a jar. Are these accusations true? Should we throw away this amazingly delicious cream?
Business Insider revealed in an article some of the rumors about Nutella containing toxic ingredients. Blog posts such as “Why you’ll want to think twice before feeding your kids Nutella” and “Say no to Nutella, it is poisoning you and your children” were shared thousands of times and people started to agree. (1)
Namely, an article published on 7 November 2014 claimed that vanillin, the artificial ingredient that Nutella contains, is in fact a neurotoxin that destroys and kills brain cells. Furthermore, Nutella contains monosodium glutamate (MSG) which is also known as E621, and is carefully hidden behind the artificial vanilla labeled on the Nutella jar. (2)
First, let’s look at its ingredients.
According to the official US Nutella Website, the ingredients are as follows:
Nutella claims their product contains “No Artificial Colors and No Artificial Preservatives”. (3)
The claims about Nutella’s possible toxicity are based on the fact that the product contains vanillin and an unstated MSG. Because, when people see the product has vanillin in it, they often think “Oh, it is vanilla.” But, vanillin is in fact the most toxic ingredient in Nutella. Why? Because the flavor and the scent of vanilla are made by chemicals. The real vanilla flavor is gained from many molecules extracted from a vanilla bean.
Vanillin is a “dangerous” chemical according to the accusatory articles which makes up 95% of the scent. Plus, this chemical is being produced from petroleum in a lab which is a cheaper procedure but can be considered harmful because it contains unlabeled MSG. Vanillin is not a vitamin, mineral, or any nutritient and doesn’t have any health benefits. In fact, it damages the body because if we break down MSG, we can find 78% glutamate, 12% sodium, and 10% water.
So, we get to the explanation of why we can’t stop consuming Nutella. Apparently, this ingredient is responsible for it.
MSG has been proven to be a powerful excitotoxin, a substance used for stimulating the reward system of the brain, i.e it makes us think that Nutella tastes better than it actually does, it makes us feel happy when we consume it, and it makes us want to consume even more.
Moreover, there are many scientists and doctors who believe that excitotoxins are responsible for the development of many neurological issues and disorders such as migraines, abnormal neural developments, infections, seizures, certain endocrine issues, obesity, and also many neurodegenerative illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease, ALS, Huntington’s disease, olivopontocerebellar degeneration, as well as Alzheimer’s disease.
However, despite all the accusations from above, vanillin is still considered to be safe for food consumption, both in the USA and globally.
Namely, in a document that was published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)’s Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD; called also a Screening Information Dataset or SIDS) it is stated that after a careful examination and review of the vanillin as a potentially risky and toxic ingredient, there was no evidence found that it is harmful for consumption. Apparently, there is no need for fears and concerns that will endanger your life in any way.
Furthermore, the use of vanillin has been approved worldwide with FDA granting GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status. This agreement is based on the experience with the usage of vanillin in many products for many years without any report of side effects. (4)
Finally, Nutella’s parent company (when asked whether the vanillin in Nutella contains MSG that is not listed in the label) stated that the accusations are false i.e there is no MSG in a Nutella jar, nor any GMO-derived ingredients for that matter.
The rumors about Nutella’s toxic ingredients are still there to stay. Social media is concerned about the use of vanillin, the ingredient which is not still proven to be toxic or harmful, or risks the consumer’s health, and also the use of MSG which is also not proven to be used in Nutella.
However, we still don’t want to miss the fact that Nutella is not so healthy either. Keep in mind that it consists of nuts, sugar, and fat. Besides the nuts, we are all aware that fat and sugar are bad for us. It really doesn’t take a smart person to know that even though Nutella is extremely delicious, it is not something that we should consume daily. The same goes for ice cream, chocolate, or other sweet pleasures.
Last, when the parent company confirmed that Nutella does not contain any genetically modified ingredients (GMO) or MSG, it can be said that Nutella is just as toxic as any other product that contains sugar and vanillin, and those products are many!
So, what was the scaremongering all about?
Apparently, the March against Monsanto group used Nutella as a tool to target and trigger a very wide and big mass of people to further their anti-GM stance. Moreover, because of social media, the story spread massively and people got concerned really fast.
In a way, those claims made a counterpoint to all the marketing strategies that Nutella used to make us believe that it is good for us. The positive thing from all of this is that we have gotten a wake-up call that Nutella is neither healthy nor nutritious.
There is no point in going into extremes. The advice here is that Nutella won’t kill you, it is not toxic for you, but you should consume it occasionally.
Ovarian cancer can be seen as “the silent killer” due to the lack of symptoms it shows, especially in the early stages. And even as the disease progresses, the signs and symptoms can still be blurry and hard to identify because they can be confused with other issues.
Below we give you an elaborate description of all the signs and symptoms that are linked with ovarian cancer so that you can get informed and diagnose it before it gets to the final stages.
There are 4 main symptoms of ovarian cancer that appear in the early stage.
They are:
There are odd symptoms, also known as silent ones because they overlap with the symptoms of other common illnesses which make it hard to identify whether they are signs of ovarian cancer or another condition that is not cancer.
However, if you ignore these silent symptoms, your condition will probably worsen as time passes. So, whenever you feel that something is off, don’t ignore that feeling. Instead, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
Bloating during your menstrual period is normal and expected, and also when eating certain food that is known to cause bloating. However, if the bloating doesn’t go away it is considered a red flag. Constant bloating is the first and most common symptom of ovarian cancer. (7)
According to a study, around 72% of people with ovarian cancer claimed they have experienced bloating. They describe the feeling as “it makes your clothes dig into your waist”, “it feels as though you’re pregnant,” and “it makes it hard to button or zip your pants.” (8)
According to a study, around 20% of the people diagnosed with ovarian cancer have noticed diarrhea, constipation, or other changes in their bathroom habits. (9)
Moreover, having a greater sense of urgency and a need for more frequent urination is also a sign of ovarian cancer. 7% of the diagnosed people said that they had urinary problems first. (10)
Abdominal or pelvic pain is also a common symptom among people struggling with ovarian cancer. Namely, a study found that around 40% of women who were diagnosed with ovarian cancer also reported having abdominal pain. (11)
The feeling varies from person to person. Some people say that the pain is like intense pressure, while others compare it to menstrual cramping. Moreover, what causes the pain is also different. And as the tumor grows, it puts pressure on other parts of the body as well, such as your bladder, spine, and rectum.
Ovarian cancer may cause you to bleed more heavily than usual, miss a period, experience vaginal discharge that is not like any other, or have spotting or bleeding when you are not on your period.
If you are in menopause, call your doctor if you notice vaginal bleeding. That is a sign of ovarian cancer as well.
Back pain is a condition that affects millions of people. And while most of the time, it is a pain that is caused by an injury, it can be also a sign of ovarian cancer. (12)
So, if you haven’t had an injury to your back, it is advisable to call your healthcare professional immediately and book an appointment.
Because the symptoms and signs of ovarian cancer are vague, it is hard to know when you should get concerned and call your doctor. However, you should definitely get an appointment with your doctor if the symptoms of ovarian cancer are new to you, are persistent, and happen more than 12 times a month.
There are many reasons why a swelling or a mass may occur in your pelvic area. In fact, a pelvic mass usually causes symptoms similar to the symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting, needing to pee often, swelling in your belly, pain during sex, weight gain, lower back pains, and unusual vaginal bleeding.
However, there are 3 main differences between ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer.
Your ovaries are organs that are shaped like two almonds. They produce the female hormones and store the eggs. If you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, that means that cancerous cells are discovered inside them. So, after the diagnosis, the doctor will tell you which stage you are in, in order to know what exactly happens in your body.
Staging is a medical term used by doctors to pinpoint the location and the size of the tumor. With correct identification of which stage the cancer is, they can give you the best treatment.
Here’s what happens in each stage.
This stage is the least advanced stage. This means that cancer has not spread outside of your ovaries. It is further divided into:
Ovarian cancer stage 2 has not yet spread to your lymph nodes or organs in distant parts of your body. However, it has reached the organs which are close to your ovaries.
Stage 2A: Cancer cells are found in your fallopian tubes, your uterus, or both.
Stage 2B: Cancer has spread to your pelvic organs such as your colon, rectum, or bladder.
Besides your nearby organs like your bladder and uterus, stage 3 ovarian cancer is now also located in your stomach lining, the lymph nodes behind your belly, or both.
Stage 3A1: Cancer cells are in your nearby lymph nodes and are also growing in your nearby organs.
Stage 3A2: Tiny cancer deposits are found in your stomach lining, but can be seen only with a microscope. Also, cancer cells can be found in your nearby lymph nodes.
Stage 3B: There are cancer growths in your belly that your doctor saw during surgery, but they are less than 2 cm across which are probably outside your liver and spleen and in your lymph nodes.
Stage 3C: This is like Stage 3B, only in this stage the cancer growths are bigger than 2 cm.
This is the most advanced stage of ovarian cancer. Stage 4 is a red signal that cancer has spread to some of your distant organs.
Stage 4A: Cancer cells are in the fluid around your lung. However, it hasn’t spread to other areas outside your pelvis or abdomen.
Stage 4B: Cancer cells have been found inside your tissues, lymph nodes, and organs, including your lungs, brain, or your skin.
Talk openly with your doctor about your stage and your concerns. If you feel scared and anxious, it is advisable to share your feelings and concerns and join a support group. (13)
Ovarian cancer mimics the symptoms of other common conditions and that is why it is so hard to detect in the earliest and most curable stages. Plus, when the symptoms do show up they often get confused for something else, and thus the cancer is left untreated until it’s too late.
Therefore, if you experience bloating, abdominal pain, back pain, missed periods, unusual vaginal bleeding, changes in your appetite, painful sex, or frequent need to urinate, call your doctor and get yourself tested.
Navigating the complexities of mental health issues is a challenging journey, one that can become even more difficult when substance abuse enters the picture. The intersection of substance abuse and mental health disorders—a condition often referred to as dual diagnosis—requires a nuanced understanding and a compassionate approach to treatment. This article aims to shed light on this critical issue, offering insights into the challenges and pathways to healing for those affected by both mental health disorders and substance abuse.
Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of substance abuse and mental health disorders. This can range from alcohol or drug addiction accompanying conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. The relationship between the two is complex, with each condition often exacerbating the symptoms of the other.
Many individuals also struggle with specific behavioral patterns or preferences—such as gravitating toward familiar brands or products like ten motives menthol—that can become tied to their substance-use habits and make recovery more challenging.
The Challenges of Dual Diagnosis
One of the primary challenges in treating dual diagnosis is the chicken-and-egg dilemma: it's often difficult to determine which came first—the substance abuse or the mental health disorder. Substance abuse can mask, mimic, or worsen mental health symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment a complicated process.
One of the primary challenges in treating dual diagnosis is the chicken-and-egg dilemma: it's often difficult to determine which came first—the substance abuse or the mental health disorder. Substance abuse can mask, mimic, or worsen mental health symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment a complicated process.
Identifying dual diagnosis requires a keen understanding of the symptoms of both substance abuse and mental health disorders. Signs may include, but are not limited to:
- Using substances to cope with emotions, sleep problems, or to "feel normal"
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence
- Feelings of depression, anxiety, or experiencing mood swings
Awareness and acknowledgment of these symptoms are crucial steps toward seeking help.
Effective treatment for dual diagnosis involves integrated care that addresses both substance abuse and mental health disorders simultaneously. This approach can prevent one condition from hindering the treatment of the other.
- Detoxification: The first step in treating substance abuse, detoxification, must be done under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
- Psychotherapy: Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are effective in treating mental health disorders and can be adapted to address substance abuse issues.
- Medication: Medications may be used to treat the mental health disorder and to reduce cravings for the substance.
- Support Groups: Participation in groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide community support and accountability.
Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals plays a pivotal role in the recovery process. Creating an environment of understanding and non-judgment is crucial for individuals navigating the challenges of dual diagnosis.
In addition to professional treatment, lifestyle adjustments and coping strategies can significantly impact recovery:
- Healthy Living: Regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and adequate sleep can improve mental health and reduce the urge to use substances.
- Stress Management: Learning and practicing stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can help manage triggers for both substance use and mental health symptoms.
- Hobbies and Interests: Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy can provide positive outlets and reduce reliance on substances.
Stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help for both substance abuse and mental health disorders. Education, awareness, and open conversations can help break down these barriers, making it easier for individuals to seek and receive the support they need.
Despite the challenges, recovery from dual diagnosis is possible. With the right treatment plan, support system, and coping strategies, individuals can embark on a journey toward healing and regain control over their lives. Hope, resilience, and patience are key components of this journey.
Dual diagnosis of substance abuse and mental health disorders presents unique challenges that require a comprehensive and compassionate approach to treatment. By understanding the interconnected nature of these issues, recognizing the signs, and pursuing integrated care, individuals can navigate the path toward recovery. It's a journey of healing that not only addresses the symptoms but also the underlying causes, offering a chance for a fulfilling and balanced life.
The journey to recovery from addiction is multifaceted, often requiring more than traditional counseling and medication. Innovative therapies such as art and music therapy have gained recognition for their effectiveness in supporting individuals on this path. These creative therapies provide alternative ways for expression and healing, helping individuals process emotions and develop new coping mechanisms. This article explores how art and music therapies are utilized in addiction recovery and the benefits they offer.
Art therapy involves the use of creative techniques such as drawing, painting, and sculpting to help people express themselves artistically and examine the psychological and emotional undertones in their art. Music therapy uses music to address emotional, cognitive, and social needs, incorporating activities like listening, singing, and playing instruments.
Both art and music therapies are used in addiction recovery programs to enhance emotional resilience and provide a non-verbal outlet for feelings that patients might struggle to express otherwise. These therapies are often integrated into comprehensive treatment plans that include traditional behavioral therapies.
Many individuals in recovery struggle with expressing emotions related to their addiction. Art and music provide alternative means for expression, allowing individuals to explore and convey their feelings without words, which can be particularly powerful for those who find verbal expression challenging.
Engaging in artistic and musical activities can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels. The act of creating art or making music can be meditative and soothing, offering a healthy way to cope with the emotional ups and downs of recovery.
Recovery is often accompanied by feelings of guilt and low self-worth. Art and music therapy can counteract these feelings by providing a sense of accomplishment. Completing a piece of art or learning a new musical skill can boost confidence and self-esteem, empowering individuals in their recovery journey.
Art and music therapies teach new ways of coping with cravings and emotional distress. For example, someone might learn to draw or play an instrument when they feel the urge to use substances, providing a productive and fulfilling alternative to old habits.
For optimal results, art and music therapies should be integrated with traditional addiction treatment methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This integrated approach ensures that recovery is addressed from multiple angles, enhancing overall effectiveness.
Qualified therapists who specialize in art or music therapy are crucial for the successful implementation of these therapies in addiction recovery. These professionals are trained to guide individuals through the creative process, helping them to glean insights and healing from their artistic expressions.
Every individual’s journey with addiction is unique, and so should be their therapeutic approach. Customizing art and music therapies to fit personal preferences and therapeutic needs is vital for engagement and effectiveness. For instance, someone with a background in music might find music therapy particularly resonant.
One challenge in implementing art and music therapies is their availability. Not all recovery programs have the resources to offer these therapies, which may limit access for individuals who could benefit from them.
Cultural background and personal taste in art and music can affect how individuals respond to these therapies. It’s important for therapists to be culturally sensitive and adaptable, ensuring that the therapies are respectful of and relevant to diverse backgrounds.
While the benefits of art and music therapies are well-documented, quantifying their effectiveness can be challenging. Continuous evaluation and adaptation based on feedback and outcomes are necessary to demonstrate and enhance the value of these therapies in addiction recovery.
Art and music therapies offer valuable tools for emotional expression, stress reduction, and skill development in addiction recovery. By integrating these therapies with traditional treatment methods, recovery programs can provide a more holistic approach to healing. As these innovative therapies become more widespread, they promise to enrich the recovery experience, offering new pathways to healing and self-discovery.
Opioid addiction is a pressing health crisis affecting millions worldwide. In battling this epidemic, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has emerged as a critical component. This article delves into the role of MAT in treating opioid addiction, demystifying its usage, benefits, and challenges.
Medication-assisted treatment combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. In the context of opioid addiction, MAT involves medications designed to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, thereby assisting in recovery.
Evidence shows MAT's effectiveness in opioid addiction treatment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that MAT significantly increases patient survival, increases retention in treatment, and decreases illicit opiate use. A study in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that MAT reduces the risk of fatal overdoses by over 50%.
MAT is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and behavioral therapies. This approach addresses the psychological aspects of addiction, ensuring a more holistic recovery process.
Despite its effectiveness, MAT often faces stigma, both socially and within certain treatment circles. It's crucial to understand that MAT is not replacing one addiction with another, but rather using medication as a tool to achieve and maintain recovery.
Access to MAT can be limited due to factors like cost, lack of nearby treatment facilities, or limited knowledge among healthcare providers. Expanding access to MAT is essential for tackling the opioid crisis effectively.
While MAT can be highly effective in the short term, it's also important for long-term recovery. Continual monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan are crucial for sustaining recovery and preventing relapse.
Medication-assisted treatment plays a vital role in the treatment of opioid addiction. By combining medication with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT offers a comprehensive approach to recovery. Understanding and addressing the challenges and stigma associated with MAT can pave the way for more effective and accessible treatment options, ultimately contributing to the larger fight against the opioid epidemic.
In recent years, there has been a rising concern over prescription drug abuse, a problem that doesn't discriminate by age. Seniors, often overlooked in discussions about drug abuse, are increasingly vulnerable to this issue. This article explores the growing trend of prescription drug abuse among seniors, shedding light on its causes, consequences, and the need for targeted interventions.
Prescription drug abuse involves the misuse of medication without a prescription, in a way other than prescribed, or for the experience or feeling it causes. Among seniors, this often relates to opioids, benzodiazepines, and amphetamines. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) highlights a concerning increase in prescription drug misuse among adults aged 65 and older.
Seniors often have multiple health issues that require various medications, a situation known as polypharmacy. This increases the risk of drug misuse, either through the confusion of managing multiple prescriptions or the unintended side effects of drug interactions.
Many seniors deal with chronic pain or mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, leading to long-term use of painkillers and sedatives. Over time, this can develop into dependency and abuse.
Seniors are more susceptible to the adverse effects of drug misuse, including cognitive impairment, falls, and organ damage. These complications can severely impact their quality of life and overall health.
Prescription drug abuse can lead to social isolation, financial problems, and strained relationships with family members. It can also exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.
Symptoms of prescription drug abuse can often mimic those of other medical conditions or be mistaken for normal signs of aging, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
There is a significant stigma attached to substance abuse, which can be even more pronounced among seniors. Many may feel ashamed to seek help or admit to having a problem.
Educating seniors and caregivers about the risks of prescription drugs and the importance of proper medication management is crucial. This includes understanding the potential for addiction and the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages.
Regular reviews of a senior's medication regimen by healthcare providers can help prevent polypharmacy and identify any potential for abuse. This should include evaluating the necessity of each medication and exploring non-pharmacological treatments for pain and mental health issues.
Healthcare providers should routinely screen for signs of prescription drug abuse, especially in patients with a history of substance use or those on high-risk medications. Monitoring refills and prescription patterns can also help identify potential abuse.
When prescription drug abuse is identified, healthcare providers should offer support and refer patients to appropriate treatment services. This may include counseling, addiction treatment programs, or support groups specifically tailored to seniors.
Family members and caregivers play a vital role in supporting seniors struggling with prescription drug abuse. This includes offering emotional support, assisting with medication management, and encouraging treatment.
Advocating for policies that address prescription drug abuse among seniors is necessary. This includes improving prescription drug monitoring programs and increasing access to alternative pain management and mental health services.
Continued research into the causes, effects, and treatments for prescription drug abuse in seniors is vital. Public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness about this issue can also play a significant role in prevention.
Prescription drug abuse among seniors is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the unique factors contributing to this trend, society can better support seniors in managing their medications safely and seeking help when needed. Through education, comprehensive healthcare strategies, and community support, we can address this growing concern and improve the health and well-being of our senior population.
Alcohol dependence, often referred to as alcoholism, is a medical condition characterized by an uncontrollable desire to consume alcohol despite its negative effects on one's health and life. This dependence is not just a matter of willpower; it's a complex interplay of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), in the United States alone, an estimated 14.5 million people aged 12 and older had Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in 2019. This statistic underscores the significance of addressing alcohol dependence effectively.
While counseling and support groups are crucial in the treatment of alcohol dependence, medications play a vital role as well. These medications are not a cure, but they can be an essential part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and sometimes create negative reactions to alcohol to discourage drinking. This support can make it easier for individuals to focus on other aspects of recovery, such as therapy and lifestyle changes.
While medication can be beneficial, it's most effective when combined with other treatment modalities like behavioral therapy, counseling, and support groups. This holistic approach addresses the psychological and social aspects of alcohol dependence.
Counseling and therapy can help individuals understand the root causes of their dependence, develop coping strategies, and rebuild damaged relationships.
Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide peer support, which is crucial for long-term sobriety. Sharing experiences and struggles with others who understand can be incredibly empowering.
There are misconceptions that taking medication for alcohol dependence is just replacing one addiction with another. However, these medications are not addictive and are designed to reduce dependence on alcohol.
It's essential to consult healthcare providers for a tailored treatment plan. They can determine the most suitable medication based on individual needs and medical history.
Research indicates that the success rates of medication in treating alcohol dependence vary. A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that naltrexone, in combination with counseling, significantly reduced heavy drinking in patients with moderate alcohol dependence.
Adherence to medication can be a challenge. Some individuals may stop taking medication once they start feeling better, leading to a risk of relapse. Ongoing support from healthcare providers and loved ones is crucial.
Medication can play a significant role in treating alcohol dependence, but it's not a standalone solution. A comprehensive treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, and support groups offers the best chance for recovery and long-term sobriety.
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- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). "Alcohol Facts and Statistics." NIAAA, 2020.
- American Journal of Psychiatry. "Efficacy of Naltrexone and Acamprosate for Alcoholism Treatment: A Meta-Analysis." 2017.
We all know cigarette smoking is bad for health. Over the years, researchers from around the world have explored the causes of the smoking epidemic and subsequent public health concerns. While we do know that cigarettes contain harmful ingredients like tobacco and tar, a study published in the National Library of Medicine highlights how participants report behavioral aspects of smoking and tobacco use as part of the reason for their smoking addiction. These behavioral aspects are also why quitting can be so challenging for many smokers.
In the study, participants noted that addiction results from more than just the ingredients and chemicals found in cigarettes. They said factors such as having a smoking routine as well as cigarette cravings that are triggered by internal and external cues. Another crucial behavioral aspect participants pointed out was the oral fixation associated with being addicted to smoking.
Many smokers rely on different ways to quit the habit. One potentially effective way to do so is by tackling this oral fixation problem to reduce or eliminate any urges to smoke. Below, we'll be sharing four ways to deal with this for those trying to quit:
To help combat the tactile feel of having something in your mouth — in this case, a cigarette — it can be productive to replace that cigarette with something healthier. Many experts and doctors may recommend healthy snacks that resemble a cigarette's feel, texture, or look. This can include carrot or celery sticks due to their shape, or nuts and other crunchy snacks to give your mouth something to do that isn't smoking. Aside from keeping you from smoking, healthy snacking can also help maintain your health.
Nicotine gum is one of the oldest forms of cessation aids. Research has also recommended nicotine gum as a treatment to reduce cessation-related weight gain, as some of these are sugar-free. In our post about going on a sugar detox, we highlighted the harms of consuming too much sugar, including the risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Too much sugar can also impact your sleep and mood, which can exacerbate cigarette cravings on a bad day. By going for sugar-free nicotine gum, you can keep your mouth busy and fight cravings without feeding yourself too much sugar.
These have become popular in recent years due to being smoke-free and markedly safer than traditional cigarettes. Users place a pouch between the lip and the gum to get microdoses of nicotine and can easily dispose of them afterward. Nowadays, nicotine pouches are easily accessible through online retailers like this website, where users can choose from popular and trustworthy brands like ZYN, Velo, and LUCY. Popular flavors include ZYN Peppermint, Spearmint, and Cool Mint, which may feel familiar for menthol smokers — without the smoke, tobacco, and tar. Like gum, these help keep your mouth busy without worrying about unwanted weight gain, as they aren't actually consumed.
Finally, these look and function like nicotine pouches, but the original Swedish snus contains tobacco instead of nicotine. According to this report, the popularity of snus among Swedes has contributed to higher quitting rates and better public health in the country. Popular snus manufacturer Swedish Match has sold 277 million boxes of snus in Sweden and Norway in 2021, and it has become an integral part of Swedish culture. If you're worried about the effects of tobacco, brands have also made white snus, which are made of synthetic nicotine and, like pouches, are often flavored.
Ultimately, getting to the root of your cigarette addiction means recognizing the behavioral aspects associated with your smoking habit. By finding ways around your need for oral fixation, you can fight off cigarette cravings and withdrawal symptoms without compromising your health.
If you'd like to see more guides, insights, and updates on staying healthy, you can check out our page, where we post about nutrition and health and share recipe recommendations and beauty tips.
Chronic pain in children, often a hidden and misunderstood issue, presents unique challenges and demands specialized treatment approaches. Unlike adults, children experiencing chronic pain face distinct physiological, psychological, and developmental considerations. This article delves into the complexities of pediatric chronic pain, exploring its challenges and the various treatment strategies employed to manage it effectively.
Chronic pain in children, defined as pain lasting more than three months, is more common than typically perceived. According to the American Pain Society, approximately 20% to 35% of children and adolescents worldwide suffer from some form of chronic pain. This pain can stem from various sources, including injuries, surgeries, chronic illnesses, and sometimes, it occurs with no identifiable cause.
Children may not always be able to articulate their pain effectively. Signs of chronic pain in children can include changes in behavior, difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite, and withdrawal from activities they usually enjoy. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for prompt and effective treatment.
A significant challenge in treating chronic pain in children is the communication barrier. Younger children, in particular, might lack the vocabulary to describe their pain accurately, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.
Chronic pain can profoundly impact a child's development. It can interfere with schooling, social interactions, and normal physical activities, which are essential aspects of a child's growth and development.
A child's chronic pain can also affect family dynamics. Parents and siblings may experience stress, guilt, and anxiety, contributing to an already challenging family situation.
Effective management of pediatric chronic pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach. This can include medical interventions, psychological support, and physical therapy. The aim is to address not just the physical symptoms of pain but also its emotional and psychological impacts.
Medication, while a common treatment for pain, must be carefully considered in children. The dosage and type of medication are crucial, as children's bodies process drugs differently than adults. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen are commonly used, but always under strict medical supervision.
Physical therapy plays a vital role in pediatric pain management. It helps in maintaining or improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing recovery through exercises tailored to the child's specific needs.
CBT is effective in helping children manage the psychological aspects of chronic pain. It teaches coping skills, helps modify negative thoughts related to pain, and improves emotional regulation.
Family therapy can be beneficial in addressing the broader impact of a child's chronic pain on family members. It helps in improving communication, addressing emotional distress within the family, and developing supportive family dynamics.
Collaboration with educational institutions is vital to ensure that children with chronic pain receive appropriate support. This may include modified school schedules, individualized education plans (IEP), and accommodations during exams.
Encouraging social inclusion is essential for the emotional well-being of children with chronic pain. Participation in adapted activities and peer support groups can promote a sense of normalcy and belonging.
Biofeedback and relaxation techniques, such as guided imagery and breathing exercises, can help children gain more control over their pain response and reduce anxiety.
CAM therapies, including acupuncture, massage, and dietary modifications, are becoming increasingly popular in pediatric pain management. These therapies often complement traditional treatments and can provide additional relief.
Managing pediatric chronic pain requires a compassionate, comprehensive approach that addresses the unique challenges faced by children. By integrating medical, psychological, and social support strategies, healthcare providers can help alleviate pain and its associated impacts on a child's life. Parental involvement, open communication, and collaboration with schools and support systems are also critical in creating an effective support network for these young patients. With the right combination of treatments and support, children with chronic pain can lead fulfilling lives and achieve their full potential.
Hemp products have grown in popularity over the past few years. This has led to some states removing hemp from their list of banned substances. There are many strains on the market, which can make keeping up difficult.
However, today's focus is on the Space Candy strain. It is a strain that has been making waves in the hemp world. Space Candy is a popular strain among hemp lovers. Most people love it because of its diverse flavor profile and therapeutic benefits.
Herein, we look at Space Candy, including some of its health benefits.
Space Candy, available at Cannaflower, is a hybrid strain. This means that it has indica-dominant and sativa-dominant parents. The result is a strain packing potency and offering the best of both worlds. According to our research, this strain was bred after crossing the Cotton Candy and Cherry Space Queen strains.
Like the name suggests, this strain packs a unique flavor profile. The flavors are what you would get if you blended fruits and sweets. Once the smoke hits the roof of your mouth, you will notice a mixture of berries and citrus with notes of sugary sweetness.
Space Candy prides itself on delivering therapeutic effects from both worlds. Being a hybrid strain, you will feel happy, and then a sense of calmness kick in. Most users feel relaxed and calm, making it the perfect strain for parties.
Its relaxation properties make it a suitable remedy for people suffering from stress, anxiety, or panic attacks. This allows your mind and body to travel to a place of tranquility, especially if you experience fatigue and brain fog after work.
Besides its therapeutic appeal, the Space Candy strain also has several health benefits. Its diverse cannabinoid profile has pain-relieving properties. This can help manage chronic pain in arthritis patients or those suffering from severe migraines.
Studies and anecdotal evidence also show that smoking Space Candy pre-rolls a few hours before bed can help improve your sleep quality. Insomnia is an issue that most people struggle with. People struggling with severe insomnia can gain weight, lack focus, and suffer from moodiness.
Due to the anxiolytic properties in the Space Candy strain, your brain will feel at peace, allowing you to fall into deep sleep fast.
There are many online and physical weed shops selling hemp products. High-grade hemp flowers will provide the best therapeutic and health benefits. Sourcing for quality hemp can be challenging, especially if you are a first-time buyer.
Always buy from a reputable brand. This way, you can rest assured that you are getting quality and organic pre-rolls or buds. Read reviews from other buyers to learn about their experiences and the product quality.
Don’t forget to use the sniff test when shopping from a physical weed shop. Fresh and well-cured hemp buds possess a strong aroma. Ensure that the flowers are medium to large in size. Big buds are a sign of maturity and pack the most potency.
