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      The Weird Way Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Guy’s Hormones

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      We all know how that moodiness around our periods can drive our partners just a bit insane. But your menstrual cycle actually has a biological effect on your partner, too. Yup, per a study, your cycle could boost his testosterone levels. Ah, hormones…

      The study

      Animal studies found that olfactory cues of ovulation (when a biological female releases an egg, awaiting fertilisation by sperm) affected male testosterone levels. Studies conducted by researchers from Florida State University found that the same thing happens to male humans.

      In the studies, women wore t-shirts during different phases of their menstrual cycles. The men in the studies smelled one of the t-shirts worn by a female or unworn t-shirts. Saliva samples were collected before and after smelling the t-shirts s and measured for testosterone levels.

      Men who smelled the t-shirts of ovulating women had higher levels of testosterone than men who smelled a t-shirt worn when the women were not ovulating or a control t-shirt. The scent of t-shirts worn when the women were ovulating was rated as the most pleasing. These olfactory findings brighten the signal that when you’re ovulating, it’s prime time for fun in the sheets.

      But the needle can swing both ways. In another study, researchers measured levels of hormones in heterosexual partners throughout the woman’s menstrual cycle. What they found was surprising: during ovulation, when levels of estradiol are elevated, both partners felt more negatively toward each other than at other times of the cycle. Clearly, your menstrual cycle plays a bigger part in the relationship than you’d think.

      To move closer together, try talking about your feelings to clear the air and make way for a deeper connection and yes, more sex.

      When his testosterone starts to wane…

      With age, men’s testosterone levels do naturally start to decrease. Instead of shoving your nightie under his nose once a month, you could also steer him in the direction of these healthy foods, proven to up his levels: eggs, peanuts, yoghurt, oysters, garlic, oats, avocado, salmon (or other oily fish), fresh fruit and veg, pine nuts, brown rice and liver.

      Add some spice with a sex toy

      We-Vibe Unite Couples Vibrator

      Get that extra deep clitoral stimulation during sex with this remote-controlled toy that you can both enjoy. More

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      8 Sneaky Ways To Get More Movement In Your Day

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      If you’re mostly sedentary, know that you’re not alone. Worldwide, rates of physical inactivity are skyrocketing, despite the rise of wellness and fitness trends. Need to get more movement in your day? Welcome to the club.

      Globally, we’re moving less

      A new policy toolkit, published by The Global Wellness Institute, shows that around the world, physical inactivity is on the rise. Per the press release, “The GWI’s new Wellness Policy Research Series was born out of a profound problem: The hyper-commercial wellness and fitness market cannot solve our skyrocketing health crises or bring exercise to all.” GWI research finds that only about one-third of the world’s population participates in recreational/leisure physical activities on a regular basis. The reason? Lack of time is cited, along with access and money. In a stunning finding, the GWI found that only 3-4% of the world’s population taps into the commercial fitness industry.

      Getting more movement in your day is essential

      But if your gym is too far away or you’re hard-up to pay for boutique gyms, there are other clever ways to get more movement in your day. Adding more movement is essential. Per the GWI, “Physical inactivity is now the fourth leading cause of death and the pandemic only increased our sedentary behaviour. The WHO estimates that physical inactivity will cause 500 million new cases of preventable diseases, and $300 billion in treatment costs, from 2020-2030, if things do not change.” Plus, the University of South Australia researchers found that exercise is 1.5 times better at helping depression than meditation and therapy.  Adding more movement is also a clever way of losing weight, since the more you move, the more calories you’d burn.

      In SA, we’re blessed with parks, beaches and tons of natural resources begging us to get outside and enjoy them. But you don’t always need to go far to move more. We’ve picked the brains of trainer Kirsten Johnson, who regularly advocates for adding more movement, for tips.

      Go for walks

      It’s age-old advice that stands the test of time. You just gotta walk more. “Going for a 20-minute walk first thing in the morning can start your day off right while avoiding all hurdles,” says Johnson. You don’t even need a sports bra. “Keep your pj’s on, pop on shoes and a hoodie and get out the door,” she adds.

      Park further away

      Most of us are prone to parking as close to the entrance as possible, but here’s an ace way to get more steps in. “Simply parking further from the shop you’re heading into will make you walk a few extra hundred steps every time you do it,” says Johnson.

      Time your movement

      Per the University of Michigan, you should move for three minutes every 30 to 60 minutes. That means getting up and walking around, grabbing a coffee, or anything that keeps you going for three minutes. Plus, those three minutes help boost your energy levels, so you’re better at the next task. Set up a timer on your phone or computer if you’re struggling.

      Leverage waiting time

      “There are tons of times during the day we spend waiting. While the kettle boils, food in the microwave, brushing teeth – use the time to do something small, it all adds up,” says Johnson. Instead of checking your phone, Johnson suggests slow squats, calf raises and arm circles. “All of this is movement, which might seem small, but they add up!” she says.

      Be less lazy

      “My mom has always been the person who will get up and fetch things for others, often upstairs or in another room,” says Johnson. “When I asked her about it she said it’s about serving others and in return you serve yourself with more movement. Truly inspiring, and I carry this mentality throughout my day. No movement is gone unrecognised by your body.”

      Try standing

      When you’re standing, you’re more likely to move your body. Plus, working while standing improves executive function, or the ability to break down tasks, per the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

      Show up for yourself

      Johnson’s workout app, FBK, costs just R85 and uses only your own body weight. Carve out time in your day to move, she says. “Plan movement into your routine as a non-negotiable. This doesn’t mean one hour in the gym. Eliminate hurdles; workout at home,” Johnson says.

      Pick movement dates

      “I think this idea has become more popular over the last few years but it’s worth mentioning. Meeting a friend over a cup of coffee does not have to be a static venture,” says Johnson. “Meet for a walk with coffee, catch up on each other’s lives and get your movement in. Win-win.” More

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      Sofia Richie’s Health and Fitness Routine Leading Up to Her Wedding

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      ICYMI, Sofia Richie tied the knot in what has been dubbed this year’s star-studded “royal wedding,” and it’s all anyone on Instagram and TikTok could talk about. The 24-year-old model, fashion designer, beauty director of Nudestix, and little sister of Nicole Richie said “I do” to Elliot Grainge in the south of France. Thanks to Richie launching her TikTok just days before her nuptials, we got glimpses of her wedding prep, complete with GRWM videos. And with Vogue’s play-by-play of the day-of wedding festivities, they left no stone unturned (can we take a moment to gush over Richie’s, not one, but three custom Chanel dresses?!).
      So we got the inside scoop on her bridal beauty and fashion looks, but being the wellness diehard that I am, I had to get to the bottom of Richie’s workout and diet routines leading up to her big day. Luckily, she shared most of it on her social media. I got the lowdown on her go-to fitness regimen and eating habits (you can thank me and IG later). Read on for some major #fitspo. 

      Her workouts
      As Richie was getting into bride mode starting last December, she took to Instagram Stories to share her sweat sessions. Two three-pound hand weights and a 10-pound weight vest were all she needed for “getting snatched” before getting hitched. Courtesy of Richie’s “Fitness Journal” highlights, we can channel Richie exercise by exercise: After sprints with her hype squad—her trainer Elizabeth Vidor and two cute AF pups—she moved on to a lateral lunge and twist combo, jumping jacks with punches, a knee-pull-and-punch sequence, and squat shuffles—performing each movement for 30 seconds and completing the circuit for six rounds.
      But wait, there’s more… Then, Richie went straight into a single-leg-glute-bridge-and-crunch exercise, followed by a knee-plank-and-arm-row move, a wall-sit-hold-and-inner-thigh burner, arm circles, and tricep extensions. Finally, Richie ended her one-hour workout with a deep stretch with her trainer. As if that wasn’t already a doozy of a routine, her pre-wedding workouts didn’t stop there. She documented three other workouts (check ’em out here and give ’em a try!). Also, she’s a hot girl walk stan like the rest of us: “I try to walk for at least an hour every single day!” And as for the activewear brand she’s obsessed with? Her favorite seems to be Splits59. 

      Her diet 
      According to US Weekly, Richie shared on her Stories that she went on a “strict diet” to “get an early start” on her wedding prep. “I try my hardest to fast until 12 p.m. (with the exception of coffee),” Richie said in December. “For lunch, I have either a salad or a high-protein meal. I eat my dinner around 6:30 p.m., which is the last meal before I go to bed (no snacking).” Her high-protein go-to’s? Egg whites and bacon. She went on to say another diet staple of hers is “tons of veggies.” While Richie conveyed that she tries her hardest to avoid carbs and sugar, she sometimes left room for “a little treat.” In the same vein, she expressed: “You should do what feels best for your body. Incorporating some carbs isn’t horrible when you are training hard.” As for her fave snack? Seaweed. Hot take: Healthy eating should be flexible (read: eating and enjoying what you love), so take a cue from Richie and do you.

      @sofiarichiegrainge
      let the festivities begin ✨
      ♬ original sound – Sofia Richie Grainge

      I’m Getting Married in Six Months–Here’s How I’m Preparing My Body and Mind More

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      Unlocking Your Body’s Full Potential: A Beginner’s Guide to Biohacking

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      Full transparency: When I first heard about biohacking, my initial thought was oh no, not another wellness trend… I know firsthand what it’s like to spend money on supplements or memberships that promise drastic changes only to be disappointed by their short-term benefits (or lack thereof). The truth is wellness trends come and go because more often than not, they aren’t actually making a huge difference in our well-being. To my (pleasant) surprise, when I dug a little deeper into what biohacking is exactly, I discovered that it’s not a current wellness trend—it’s a tool everyone can use to make effective, long-lasting changes in their health.

      What is biohacking? 
      The term biohacking has been around for quite some time, first originating as a part of the molecular biology movement where people were implementing technology to enhance the human body (yep, straight out of a sci-fi movie).But in the world of wellness, biohacking is a little different. It’s defined as changing your physiology and chemistry through science and self-experimentation, with the goal of understanding what your body needs to function optimally. In other words, biohacking is literally trying different “hacks” for optimal health.
      These hacks can be as minor as slight adjustments to your nighttime routine, or as complex as cold plunging and heat therapy. Biohacking can mean purchasing a hyperbaric oxygen pod or supplements such as nootropics, or can be totally free like getting sunlight in the morning for your circadian rhythm or walking barefoot on grass or sand to reduce inflammation. While the degrees of biohacking vary by price and extremity, the goal is always the same: the optimize your health, reverse aging, and live as healthy as possible.
      Biohacking has been praised by celebrities like Tom Brady, Brooke Burke, and Tony Robbins, but what makes it so different from all the other wellness trends out there? Biohacking is really about self-improvement, but on an advanced level. If you’re looking to make incremental, highly-effective changes to your wellness routine and optimize the health of your body, biohacking may be for you. Read on for some life-changing biohacks you can try for yourself below. 

      Biohacks to try right now:

      If you want better sleep…
      Whether it’s the struggle to fall asleep, wake up, or get enough quality hours, lack of sleep is a challenge we’ve all faced, and getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for our health. Sleep is a chance for our body to detoxify from the day and it allows for healthy brain and body function. If you’re looking to biohack your way to healthier sleep routine, the key is to make changes to hack your circadian rhythm, or the internal clock that regulates the sleep–wake cycle. The first step is to ensure your environment is set up for optimal sleep, including no electronics at least an hour before bedtime and ensuring you’re sleeping in a completely dark room, or using a sleep mask if you have any light from windows or electronics. Also ensure that you’re going to bed and waking up at the same time every day so your body can become accustomed to a sleep schedule.
      If you’re looking to advance your routine a little further, try taking CBD or sleeping with a weighted blanket. Both of these tools help calm the nervous system and lower your heart rate to prepare for sleep. You can also try replacing your lightbulbs with red lightbulbs to naturally stimulate melatonin and opt for a sunrise alarm clock, which will wake you up to natural light as well as softer sounds. Don’t forget the natural sunlight first thing upon waking–open up the curtains, go for a walk, or sip your morning coffee by a window. 

      If you want to boost your workouts…
      When it comes to enhancing workouts, it will look different for everyone because our bodies are all different. But whether you prefer a fitness routine focused on cardio or one that revolves around Yoga and Pilates, there are ways to hack every workout. For starters, tracking your workouts with technology like a Fitbit or Oura Ring gives you stats such as daily steps, heart rate, and other health metrics. These products can help track your progress and guide you in making any necessary changes to boost your fitness routine.
      If you have a menstruation cycle, another way to hack your fitness routine that I personally love is implementing the Cycle Syncing® Method. When you work out according to each phase of your cycle, you are essentially biohacking your metabolism to make each workout more effective. Cycle syncing can help you burn more fat and build more muscle while aligning with your hormones and energy levels. Whether you menstruate or not, choosing a workout that gets you sweaty (i.e. hot yoga, jogging on a warm day, etc.) not only has fitness benefits, but counts as a biohack for your lymphatic system. 

      If you want to improve your nutrition…
      Important disclosure: The key to biohacking your diet isn’t focused on how to lose weight or eat less calories, but rather becoming more in tune with your body. The healthiest people don’t restrict certain foods in their eating habits—they are listening to their body’s cues and honoring them (read: intuitive eating is the ultimate biohack, and the only one you really need). Once you’re connected to what your body needs, you can evaluate whether a pescatarian versus a keto eating approach is better for you, and explore further biohacking techniques like intermittent fasting, introducing certain supplements for deficiencies or wellness goals, or adding more superfoods to meals. Another effective way to biohack your diet for people who menstruate is by cycle syncing (just like for your fitness) or eating based on the phase you’re in. 

      If you want better mental health…
      Let me start by saying there’s no easy hack to great mental health. It’s a journey—we all have good days and bad days—but there are ways you can hack your wellness routine to assist your mental health journey. Incorporating practices such as gratitude journaling, meditation, sound baths, and breathwork are all helpful for getting out of your head and into the present moment. Personally, gratitude journaling is my go-to for those days when I feel like everything is going wrong. Practicing gratitude instantly reminds us of all the good in our lives, as opposed to the negative. Biohacking your mental health can even be as simple as getting outside. Go for a walk, step into your backyard with bare feet and ground into the earth, sit on a park bench, and soak up some sun. We spend a lot of time indoors and sedentary—fresh air and movement are necessary for our wellbeing. 

      If you want glowing skin…
      In a dream world, my skin is always Hailey Bieber-level glowing, and while I’m not quite a glazed donut yet, the skin hacks I’m about to let you in on are helping me get there. You’ve probably heard it before, but the skin is the largest organ in the body, and hacks like drinking more water and using SPF really do work. Starting each morning with a large glass of water and then continuing to drink water throughout the day is a game-changer for your skin health. Another way you can hack your skin is by trying a lymphatic drainage massage. Not only will it help with de-puffing, but it also does a great job of detoxifying the body.
      Dry brushing can also help with lymphatic drainage and helps to exfoliate the skin (a double biohack!). The last hack for glowing skin is to try an elimination diet. If you are prone to breakouts or redness, there could be something in your diet that is causing it. After a recommendation from my doctor, I cut out dairy from my diet and my skin became much clearer. Work with your doctor to discuss possible food intolerances or allergies because our skin is a direct reflection of what is happening inside the body.

      Please consult a doctor or a mental health professional before beginning any treatments. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

      The 30 Greatest Life Hacks of All Time More

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      Everything You Know About Self-Care Isn’t Wrong… But It’s Not Quite Right

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      The term ‘self-care’ is having a moment, but is it the right one? When it’s not being sold to us in the form of candles or fuzzy PJs via Instagram ads, self-care is taking over our TikTok FYP with “everything shower” routines. It’s become an excuse for our every indulgence. Happy hour after a terrible day at work? That’s self-care. Brunch, followed by a Euphoria-inspired mani? It’s all self-care, baby. Splurging on a beach vacay after the hell of these past few years? Self. Care.

      But how much we seem to be focusing on self-care online doesn’t actually align with reality. Nearly half of women are struggling with burnout, according to a workplace survey by Indeed. Meanwhile, a 2022 mental health report by Liptember Foundation revealed that 69% of women are stressed and 44% are facing anxiety. 

      Stats like these raise this question: if the ‘treat yourself’ approach to self-care is working, why are we still so frazzled and worn out? Well, according to experts, we’re all somewhat missing the point. “Self-care is about taking time to understand your true needs beyond your impulses,” says Dr Chloe Carmichael, a therapist and author of Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety. “It’s looking at yourself on a deeper level.”

      It’s not that a vacation or a happy hour isn’t a worthy form of self-care. Sometimes ‘treating yourself’ is what’s needed, notes Carmichael. But the truth is, if that’s all you’re doing, you’re missing out on the real benefits. Keep reading for a step-by-step lesson in strengthening your relationship to caring for yourself.

      Apps That Will Change Your Life

      Peptalk

      Start your morning with a motivational pep talk from the most inspiring people in the world. You experience a simulated video call with professional athletes, celebs, and musicians. Whatever your goals PEPTALK will be your personal coach, trainer or accountability buddy.

      Streaks

      Some psychologists claim that it takes 21 days for a new habit to form; others argue it’s closer to three months. Either way, sticking to anything for that long can be tough. Streaks is a self-improvement coach that helps you ingrain those healthy behaviours by logging the good stuff you get done.

      Shine

      This app is like a cross between a supportive friend and psychologist – each day you’ll get an uplifting message. Also, you can tap into the library of resources with exercises such as mindful cooking or creating a coffee ritual and work through expert-approved challenges to upskill in areas like self-confidence and anxiety.

      Action point one: Define what self-care really means to you

      There isn’t one single meaning of the term. It’s an ever-evolving concept that’s constantly updated, for better and for worse. “Self-care” as a cultural phenomenon was first introduced by feminist author Audre Lorde in her 1988 essay collection, A Burst of Light, says Dr Omolara Thomas Uwemedimo, an assistant professor at Northwell Health in New York.

      “For her, a Black, queer woman, self-care was about self-preservation. It was about being able to see your identity outside of the white gaze and come back to yourself. It wasn’t something nice to do, but something that kept you alive.” 

      Since then, self-care has been appropriated by marketing whizzes eager to sell an idealised version – and the exxy candles that come with it. But now, finally, we’re starting to come full circle and to build upon Lorde’s original thoughts, adds Dr Catherine Cook-Cottone, a professor whose research focuses on mindful self-care. People recognise the holes in that commercialised alteration and are searching for a deeper understanding of what it can do. “Self-care isn’t something you buy,” Cook-Cottone says. “It’s an active practice of taking care of the internal aspects within the context of external pressures.” According to Dr Barbara Riegel, a University of Pennsylvania nursing professor who studies chronic illness, self-care is about “taking control of your body and taking control of what’s going on with you.” For Uwemedimo, self-care is “creating space in your life to remember who you are and what your purpose is.” 

      So in short, the semantics are up to you. Just remember that it’s a lot like parenting yourself, which means it’s your job to stay focused on what you need, not what you want in the moment. That’s not always easy. One example to drive the point home: social connection is important, but maybe you just moved and don’t know anyone, so reaching out feels scary. You can tell yourself that staying home with Netflix is self-care (and it may make you feel good at first), but Netflix won’t fill your need.

      “Self-care is about taking an honest look at what you require in order to function your best – not only today, but in the broader sense,” Carmichael explains.

      Action point two: Find ways to feed your mind, body and soul

      One of the most difficult aspects of self-care is that it’s so individual. “There isn’t a litmus test where certain behaviours always count as self-care,” Carmichael says. “It depends on the person.” So, how do you know what you need? And how do you find that balance between pushing yourself outside your comfort zone and comforting yourself when you need it?

      Remember ART

      Remember the acronym ART to help you decipher if your self-care behaviour is on point, suggests Cook-Cottone. A is ‘attunement’. As in, are you tuned in to what you really need? R stands for ‘responsive.’ Is the behaviour going to serve that need? And T is ‘taking action’. Will you follow through? If you’re having trouble with the first part, you might start including time in your routine to do nothing but reflect.

      “Taking a break is important to develop awareness,” Cook-Cottone says. That *might* mean taking a regular bubble bath, but while you’re in the water, ask yourself: what do I need to feel my best? What is working in my life right now, and what isn’t? If you’re short on time, you can accomplish the same goal by using the moments you spend on other activities – say, folding the laundry or working out – to focus on your breath and simply listen.

      Time To Pause

      Instilling a time to pause in your day should give you an idea of what, if anything, is missing from your routine. It’s also good practice for knowing what you need in the moment. You might learn that you should focus more on physical forms of self-care: getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, taking prescribed medications, and so on. Or maybe managing stress is an area that’d be good to work on, which eventually leads you to a mindfulness practice or more time outside in nature. Maybe you need to do something creative or something that contributes to your community, like volunteering for a cause you care about.

      Friendly reminder: as a complex being, you have complex needs. It’s not as if you can pick one self-care activity and call it a day. “You want a diverse portfolio of self-care,” advises Cook-Cottone. Some activities will be for your physical well-being, while others will be more for your spiritual and social sides. From there, all you have to do is make sure to make time for that self-care on the regular.

      So, yes, this means that you want to have structure, but also the leeway for spontaneity. Include small, daily practices like saying a loving thing to yourself while you brush your teeth, as well as formal practices like regular meditation. Scheduling a variety of activities (fitness classes, meet-ups with friends, whatever lights you up) can take some decision-making off the table. Creating lots of opportunities and practising varied ways of providing care for yourself will help you “be more agile and responsive in the moment,” explains Cook-Cottone. In other words, when a stressor comes up, it’ll be easier to dig into your toolbox and lean on a practice that’s already routine.

      Action point three: Set boundaries in new ways

      This can have multiple applications and implications. First, you want to set boundaries that protect your time for yourself, like saying no to a night out when what you really crave is a good sweat or some time to process a bad day with a mate. You also want to set boundaries for what you accept as appropriate for your life. That means setting rules for the types of treatment you tolerate in your relationships or at work. This second type of boundary is generally harder to set, given how our culture rewards women for being able to push through anything. The benefit is that when we set boundaries for ourselves, we’re protecting others too. We’re making it smoother for other women to set similar boundaries. “It’s easier to do that in community, so you don’t feel like the odd person out,” Uwemedimo says. 

      It’s all too simple to let self-care be last on our to-do list. But without it, you’ll lose yourself in the constant pressures – and who wants to live like that? Plus, self-care isn’t just a mental boon. If you ignore it, you’re setting yourself up for major health issues down the line, from burnout to true chronic illnesses like depression, diabetes or heart disease, Riegel says. “It’s not something that can wait.” All the more reason to start putting yourself first.

      The post Everything You Know About Self-Care Isn’t Wrong… But It’s Not Quite Right appeared first on Women’s Health. More

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      Vaginal Probiotics Are Having A Moment – But How Do They Work?

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      Since your algorithm knows you’re a woman, you’ve likely seen vaginal probiotics on your feeds: gummies, powders and pills that tout an end to thrush and infection. While we know vaginas are self-cleansing machines, this is one trend that could help, per experts.

      First, some background…

      “A healthy vagina has “good” bacteria in it,” says gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Daniela Krick. “This is called the vaginal flora or microbiome and is made up of many different types of bacteria, the predominant being lactobacilli.” They work to fend against microbes from outside that cause infection and microbes that reside in the vagina but multiply abnormally quickly, causing thrush or vaginosis, Dr Krick explains.

      That being said, a probiotic can help – if you have a vaginal flora imbalance. It’s made of naturally-occurring lactobacilli, the healthy bacteria in your bod. This can help restore vaginal pH and improve the body’s natural defence against infection. “Nowadays, there is increasing evidence that probiotics are effective in assisting the treatment of bacterial vaginosis,” says Dr Krick.

      Do you need vaginal probiotics?

      Maybe, say the experts, if you’re prone to bacterial vaginosis or thrush. “The thinking is that introducing more of the helpful lactobacilli might protect against that overgrowth of harmful organisms. Consequently, this can reduce recurrent infections,” says Dr Krick. “There is some evidence that women suffering from GSM (genitourinary symptoms of menopause) may benefit from vaginal probiotics in combination with traditional local oestrogen therapy.”

      Added to that, scant studies suggest that vaginal probiotics could clear out HPV infections. HPV is associated with an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.

      Ingredients to look out for

      Studies that show the positive effects of using vaginal probiotics have specific strains that are successful. So, look out for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14, says Dr Krick. Also, there are various applications, and they all work to similar effect.

      Even so, chat with your doctor if you’re thinking of using a vaginal probiotic. “It is important to remember that all probiotics are live microorganisms which can have side effects such as allergic reactions and gastrointestinal upset,” says Dr Krick.

      Also, look for probiotic-based products that have these strains. Other products might not have the necessary ingredients that alleviate symptoms of thrush and bacterial vaginosis.

      Make sure you’re safe

      It’s important to not engage in other practices that could create an environment for infection. That includes:

      Long, soapy baths (it’s water full of bacteria)

      Douching

      Using soaps to wash your lady parts. Only use water or a low-pH soap.

      And, practise safe sex

      Try these vaginal probiotics

      These probiotics contain the ingredients that have been studied and shown to produce results.

      Reuterina Femme

      These contain the right ingredients you need to flush out irritation and infection, in a capsule.

      Femina Cranberry Probiotic Capsules

      Lactose-free and vegan-friendly, this capsule delivers cranberry extract and probiotics.

      Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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      6 Easy Hacks To Eat More Protein Without Trying

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      Before sea moss gel, green powders, and celeb-backed Erewhon smoothies (hi, Hailey and Bella) became the “it” superfoods, incorporating enough protein in your diet was the name of the wellness game. Derived from the Greek word for “primary,” meaning “first place” or “in the lead,” you could call it the OG of nutrition trends.
      Hot take: Protein is making a comeback and for good reason. Eating the right amount of protein is a must for our muscles and bones to repair and grow. When protein is consumed, the body breaks it down into amino acids, absorbs it, and uses it to build muscles and organs, to make hormones and antibodies, and as an energy source. Bottom line: Protein is essential to keep your body in top-notch condition.
      So just how much protein do you need to eat? While it depends on factors such as age and activity level, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that the average individual should consume 0.35 grams per pound of body weight per day for general health. For example, a person who weighs 165 pounds should consume an average of 60 grams of protein per day. Use that formula as a starting point, and then talk to your doctor or a nutritionist to find out how many grams you should aim for based on your needs, goals, activity level, and body. 
      While you may think that sticking to grilled chicken and hardboiled eggs is the only way to pack more protein in your diet, there are simple tricks to satisfy the proper macronutrient intake that aren’t so blah. Ahead are six simple tips to help you eat more protein. Spoiler: They deliver on taste and variety.

      1. Meal prep protein into every meal
      Planning your meals ahead of time ensures that every meal is built around a high-quality form of protein. Eggs or breakfast sausage may be the obvious picks for a make-ahead, protein-filled brekkie, but don’t sleep on high-protein breakfast burritos, casseroles, pancakes, and overnight oats. When it comes to lunch or dinner, season or marinate your go-to lean sources of protein, like chicken, fish, and tofu, and cook them up in bulk so you have them at the ready for bowls, salads, pasta, tacos, wraps, and stir-fries.
      If you just can’t be bothered to prep large portions of protein ahead of time, make a little more than you need when you’re making dinner and save it for lunch the next day. To up your protein consumption, don’t forget to sprinkle any (and every!) meal or snack with nutritional yeast (a seasoning high in protein), chia seeds, or nuts, like almonds, walnuts, and pine nuts. 

      2. Add a protein powder to the routine you already have
      From the ever-trendy collagen to the common whey and plant-based assortments (such as pea or hemp), you can take your pick of protein powders to give you a morning kick, afternoon zing, or post-workout recovery boost. Protein powders are one of the easiest ways to sneak protein into your routine because you can add them to pretty much anything: smoothies, oatmeal, pancakes, yogurt, and more.
      Another easy way to seamlessly incorporate protein powder? #Profee, or protein coffee, ICYMI. TikTokers and wellness girlies alike are taking their morning cup of joe with protein powder to get a leg-up in protein for the day (insider tip: Starbucks fans can also take part with Protein-Blended Cold Brew–you’re welcome). Is matcha more your cup of tea? Whip up a matcha latte with a vanilla protein powder and milk of your choice for a healthy pick-me-up and hit of protein. Just make sure that the protein powder you choose is ideally organic or clean without additives and artificial sweeteners. 
       
      3. Have protein-rich snacks on hand
      Snacks are there for us when we’re hangry, the munchies strike, or we need to increase our intake of protein. You want to get the most bang for your buck, so load up on high-protein snacks like a smoothie, greek yogurt, cottage cheese, sliced turkey and cheese, smoked salmon and avocado toast, apple slices with peanut butter, and roasted edamame (I could go on and on). Bonus points: They’ll also help keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent that all-too-familiar afternoon crash. If you’re always on the go, have handy snacks readily available that you can easily grab on your way out. Think: beef jerky, clean protein bars, and nuts or seeds.

      4. Incorporate more legumes 
      They say good things come in small packages, and beans are no exception. Soybeans, lentils, and white beans are chock-full of protein, and not only do they serve up a good portion of plant-based protein, but they also help meet your fiber, iron, and vitamin requirements. Other protein-packed beans to add to your grocery list: split peas and the kidney, black, navy, and pinto varieties. Stock your kitchen pantry with these protein powerhouses for an inexpensive and easy way to whip up versatile meals and snacks. Eat them on their own or make them into a soup, dip (hummus, anyone?), or bean-based veggie burger, or toss them in an omelet or salad for a healthy dose of protein that’ll keep you full and satisfied. Another hack? Replace your processed carbohydrates with legume-based options, such as chickpea or lentil pasta. 
       
      5. Add protein to baked goods and desserts
      You might think of muffins, bread, or cookies as a nutrient-void treat, but homemade options actually make for the perfect vehicles to add protein into the mix (literally). With the addition of protein powder, greek yogurt, beans, ground flaxseed, or a nut or seed butter, you can satisfy your sweet tooth and reach your protein goal in one swoop. Take a stab at these brownies complete with chocolate protein powder and almond butter, blueberry cake donuts that include almond flour, vanilla protein powder, and Greek yogurt, or red lentil cookies jam-packed with protein from red lentils, peanut butter, oats, and whole wheat flour (don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!). And if no-bake desserts are more up your alley, try these lemon coconut flaxseed balls, peanut butter cups, or vegan cookie dough on your next self-care night in (now that’s my kind of multi-tasking). 

      6. Replace refined grains with whole grains
      Food for thought: Whole grains are packed with important nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, complex carbohydrates, and–you guessed it–protein. When we process grains (turning them into refined carbohydrates, like white flour), it strips them of nutrient goodness, including removing protein. For example, whole wheat flour has 28% more protein than refined wheat flour. When purchasing bread, pasta, or other wheat products, look for whole wheat as the first ingredient for a range of benefits, including more protein.
      Better yet, opt for grains in their whole form such as quinoa, farro, barley, bulgur, brown rice, or millet. Most grains have about 25% more protein when eaten in their whole form because the protein typically gets processed out. Add whole grains to salads, make a whole-grain side dish, or whip up pilafs, stir-fries, and bowls.

      30 Superfoods You Can Sneak Into Your Go-To Meals More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Ultimate Sleep Hack Or TikTok Fad? The Colour Of Sound Explained

      by

      The sheer volume of sleep hacks on TikTok is enough to keep you up all night. And the one that never fails to crank up the views is utilising different colours of sound to get you to sleep.

      Sure we’ve all heard of white noise before, but did you know there’s also pink, brown, green and even blue noise too?

      Although the biggest brains in the sleep business say evidence on the efficacy of noise to get you to sleep “is inconclusive and very low quality at this point,” (thanks Dr Mathias Basner, professor of sleep at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the world’s biggest review of noise as a sleep aid), you can’t keep a good TikTok trend down.

      And, while the noise itself might not trigger sleep alone, Michael Grandner, who directs the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona, says there’s no denying it can help you catch some Zzzzs if used in a certain way.

      “White noise machines work through a process called sound masking or noise masking,” he says. “They create a blanket of sound around you that absorbs other sound waves so that little creaks and cracks and cars driving by don’t quite make it to your brain and you don’t respond to them.”

      But which hue is the sleep sound choice for you?

      What White Noise Does For Sleep

      What Pink Noise Does For Sleep

      If you find white noise too intense, it could. because it delivers the same sound frequencies all at the same intensity.

      Pink noise offers a louder low frequency with softer high ends, which makes it slightly smoother than white noise.

      Studies have shown that pink noise can both aid people in getting to sleep and also have a positive influence on supporting deep sleep and memory. 

      What Brown Noise Does For Sleep

      Brown noise has been trending on TikTok for a while now, with 84.3 million views for videos featuring the hashtag and counting.

      Brown noise offers a deeper and stronger tone, the lower frequencies can block out external noise while soothing the mind and making it easier for people to sleep.

      There’s also anecdotal evidence to suggest that brown noise can help block out the internal monologue that many people experience, especially at night when we have no other distractions to keep our minds from wandering. 

      What Green Noise Does For Sleep

      Green noise is a variation of white noise in the middle of the spectrum, as the name insinuates it utilises similar sounds to that you may hear in nature.

      Green noise is said to help restore calm and promote relaxation. It does this by providing a “sound mask” to other ideas, feelings, sensations, and sensory experiences. Because green noise is more pleasing, it may be a more appealing choice than the typical white noise.

      What Blue Noise Does For Sleep

      Because there are few deep tones in blue noise to help balance its energy, which is primarily concentrated at the high-frequency end, it almost sounds like water spraying out of a hose nozzle.

      Although that doesn’t sound very tranquil, blue noise does a wonderful job of severely disguising outside noises. That is, if you’re not sensitive to high-pitched sounds.

      Again, there’s been little scientific research into the effectiveness of blue noise, in comparison to its other colourful counterparts, however, that’s not to say it’s not worth trying if some of the other sounds don’t help.  

      The post Ultimate Sleep Hack Or TikTok Nonsense? The Colour Of Sound Explained appeared first on Women’s Health. Words by by Kara Byers. More