Don’t Feel Guilty– Have A Heart-Healthy Dessert!

Although chocolate has a bad reputation, research supports that dark chocolate and raw cocoa powder have several health benefits. A meta-analysis in the 2018 issue of Nutrients noted that seven different studies have reported that people who eat dark chocolate have a reduced risk of stroke.

Research has examined14 cohort studies and 508,705 participants, and they all conclude that higher chocolate consumption results in reduced risk of diabetes, stroke, and cardiometabolic diseases. For the best effect, buy dark chocolate with over 70% cocoa, or purchase the raw cocoa powder to add to smoothies, oatmeal, and yogurt.

Drop the Ranch, Break Out The Hummus

Chickpeas are a versatile legume that’s used in hummus. Both chickpeas and hummus were reviewed in 2016 Nutrients because of their high-density nutrients. Traditional hummus slows down carbohydrate absorption, which regulates blood sugar. In one study, those who ate chickpeas had 4x less glucose than people who ate white bread.

Research from 2006 indicates that those who consume chickpeas over 20 weeks experience significantly diminishes LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol. This process equalizes blood pressure, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

It Might Be Trendy, But Avocado Toast Is Good For The HeartNow, you have more reasons to keep up your avocado obsession. 2018 research in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition analyzed how nutrients in the fruit (yes, it’s a fruit) aid the heart. People who eat avocado receive more HDL cholesterol, which hinders cardiovascular disease.

Unlike other foods on this list, avocado does not affect LDL cholesterol or triglycerides, unhealthy compounds that can damage the heart. But it does supply the heart with powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory phytosterols, and monounsaturated fats, or “healthy fats.” All these provide for a healthy heart, according to the Heart Foundation.

Go Ahead; Have Your Morning Cup Of Coffee

Because high caffeine intake can stimulate stress and anxiety, many people assume that coffee harms the heart. But current research demonstrates the opposite. A 2014 systematic review of cohort studies concluded that moderate coffee consumption (3-5 cups a day) results in a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Recently, the British Heart Foundation analyzed over 8,000 participants and proposed that even 25 cups of coffee a day won’t stiffen arteries, as previously presumed. Coffee shrinks inflammation and stabilizes insulin production, which can decrease the likelihood of diabetes. These benefits can even lengthen life, according to researchers at the University of Southampton in 2018.

Need A Snack? Pack Some Almonds

While all nuts can promote heart health, almonds have received particular attention in a 2018 Nutrients review. Through 18 controlled trials, researchers have demonstrated that eating almonds erases much of our LDL cholesterol, a well-known risk factor of heart disease.

The Indian Heart Association observes that almonds increase HDL cholesterol, which actually works against cardiovascular disease. One study found that people who have coronary artery disease benefited from higher HDL-C and lower LDL-C, and almonds support both.

An Apple A Day… Do I Even Need To Say It?

Not only does this process contribute more fiber, but it also cleans out the gut and harmful bacteria, which can develop into diabetes and heart disease. Similar to red wine and cocoa, apples clear out perilous LDL cholesterol.

Grab Your Glass! Red Wine Is Healthy (In Moderation)

In 2006, researchers from the Experimental & Clinical Cardiology journal studied the effects of wine and resveratrol on heart disease. Wine drinkers have higher lipoprotein (HDL) levels, which protect the heart and arteries.

Red wine also increases NO production. NO, or endothelial nitric oxide synthase, dwindles during the early stages of diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure. The polyphenols in red wine tell the body to produce more NO, which not only guards the heart but also increases oxygen production and metabolism.

Garlic Repels More Than Just Vampires

You’ve probably seen garlic mentioned in several other health articles. In 2014, researchers from the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine reviewed all studies on garlic health benefits. They concluded that eating garlic consistently lowers blood glucose level, which keeps the heart healthy.

According to several studies in the ’80s and ’90s, garlic also fights off bacteria and viruses, such as Salmonella, E. coli, and influenza A and B. Its ability to clear out toxicity even cleans out the liver (1993 study) and enhances antioxidant production (2012 study). Not that you needed an excuse to add more garlic to a meal.

Enjoy Cranberries Even When It’s Not Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving favorite can be enjoyed all year round for improved heart health. In 2011, scientists from the Boston and Tufts Universities reported that drinking cranberry juice relieves arterial stiffness, specifically around the aorta, the body’s largest artery.

Cranberries enhance blood lipids, curtail LDL cholesterol, and increase helpful HDL cholesterol. One study in 2000 noted that this fruit shrinks blood pressure to the point of relieving hypertension. It also calms inflammation and oxidative stress. Researchers do not recommend using a powder, as the fruit loses 30-40% of nutrients that way, but do advocate for cranberry juice.

Dates Aren’t Just For Digestin

Dates are best known for improving the digestive system, but they can also protect your heart. In 2009, Israeli researchers discovered that eating dates removes fat without influencing blood glucose levels. Unlike other dried fruits, you won’t get a blood sugar spike from eating dates daily.

A more recent study concluded that dates have special antioxidants which improve heart health. In the journal Food & Function, researchers explained that dates can reduce cholesterol buildup by 28%. They also lower oxidative stress by 33%. If you eat a few dates, you’ll nourish your gut and guard your heart.

Kale Helps Both Heart And Mind

Kale has spiked in popularity for being a high-fiber hearty member of the cabbage family. A 2018 study in the journal Nutrients found that consuming 5-6 of leafy green vegetables such as kale abated the risk of cardiovascular disease.

That same year, another study in Neurology supports that kale intake prevents cognitive decline, especially in seniors. Even eating as little as 1.3 servings per day will keep your mind and memory sharp for five years, according to the study. One serving of kale is only one cup, but it can make a big difference.

Combine Peanut Butter With Other Foods For Variety

Indulge in some peanut butter while protecting your heart? That sounds like a win-win. Although peanut butter might sound like a food that would be off the list, it’s different than some other high-fat foods that can lead to high cholesterol.

Peanut butter is high in protein, omega-3 fats, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, according to the American Heart Association. It can also be used in a variety of snacks, so mix it up with other heart-healthy foods as you please.

Prep Some Lentils, Lose Weight, And Help Your Heart

In 2017, the International Journal of Molecular Sciences published a study examining lentils’ effect on health. Of all legumes, lentils have the highest level of polyphenols, which are compounds that guard against harmful bacteria, fungi, inflammation, and viruses.

Because of their high protein, fiber, and flavonoid count, lentils make you feel fuller for longer. When you feel fuller, you eat less, which combats obesity. The polyphenols also stabilize blood pressure, which can avert hypertension and coronary artery diseases.

Turmeric’s Unique Compounds Prevent Heart Disease

Turmeric is the bright yellow spice in curry powders. Its color comes from the polyphenol curcumin, and researchers have proposed that this compound inhibits heart disease. As an antioxidant, curcumin guards the heart against toxicities such as LDL cholesterol.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health conducted a study that observed patients of bypass surgery having fewer heart attacks after consuming turmeric. Although high doses can give people an upset stomach, this spice generally counters nausea and blocks potential heart complications.

Asparagus Is Tasty And Healthy

Asparagus is packed full of folate, which helps to prevent the build-up of the amino acid homocysteine from building up in the body. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to an increase in potentially fatal heart conditions including coronary artery disease and stroke.

Luckily, asparagus works in just about any dish, as it can be eaten alone as a side if need be. Also, if you don’t like the taste, there are plenty of recipes that can make aspargus taste delicious.

Cook More Fish, Especially Sardines

Even for fish lovers, sardines are an acquired taste. Although a 2013 review proclaims that any fish will lower the risk of cardiovascular disease due to their omega-3’s, sardines have received special attention. Research in 2016 informed that patients with type 2 diabetes who regularly ate sardines experienced more balanced blood sugar levels.

Sardines have one of the highest omega-3 counts of any fish, which assuages inflammation and wards off harmful triglycerides. Scientists believe that these factors can halt the risk of heart failure over time.

Spinach Keeps Your Heart In Rhythm

In order to have a strong and healthily rhythmic heart, one of the most important things to consume is magnesium. Considering all of the other health benefits that spinach has, it’s no surprise that the leafy green is one of the best sources of dietary magnesium.

This keeps the heart healthy and regulated, so Popeye definitely got something right! You can also add spinach into almost every meal and even mask the taste of it if you really don’t like it. It’s an incredible vegetable.

Beets Will Help You Exercise Healthier

In 2016, a study JACC: Heart Failure examined paients of heart failure and their reaction to beets. When your heart weakens, it can’t pump enough blood throughout the body, which makes it harder to exercise. Fortunately, beets are rich in nitrates, which improve blood flow.

After just one week of eating beetroots, the participants’ exercise endurance raised by 20%. Not only can beets improve blood flow to nourish the heart, but they can also assist in workouts, making your diet much more effective.

Oranges Provide Potassium That You Might Not Be Getting Otherwise

Oranges not only add a tasty addition to any lunch, but research supports their positive effects on the heart. The American Heart Association proposes that citrus fruits like oranges lower the risk of ischemic stroke by 19%.

Dr. Mark Houston, clinical professor at Vanderbilt Medical School, asserts that higher potassium intake diminishes the risk of heart disease by 49%. Unfortunately, fewer than 2% of Americans meet their daily potassium content. Oranges provide plenty of potassium, and 130% of your daily vitamin C needs– these nutrients lower blood pressure and combat skin damage such as wrinkles.

Walnuts Can Be Very Beneficial

Different kinds of nuts have different health properties, however, walnuts are great for your heart. Just eating a handful a day can help to protect against the inflammation of your hearts arteries and can even lower your cholesterol.

On top of that, walnuts also contain omega-3s, monounsaturated fats, plant sterols, and fiber. Walnuts can also be used to replace unhealthy fats such as those found in a lot of junk food. Keep in mind there are more ways to eat walnuts than just in their original form! Walnut Turkish Delights are a delicious way to work walnuts into your diet.

The More Carrots You Chomp, The Better Your Heart

These fun orange snack foods can protect the cardiovascular system if you don’t dip them in too much ranch. A 2011 study in Nutrients emphasized that drinking carrot juice optimizies the body’s antioxidant levels and decreases lipid peroxidation, a process that harms cells.

Earlier research from 2008 suggests that the more carrots you eat, the less likely you’ll encounter a heart attack. If you don’t want carrots everyday, you can substitute carrots with other yellow-orange foods such as pumpkins and sweet potatoes, which also support the heart.

Pick Off Some Pomegranates

Pomegranate seeds contain a significant source of antioxidants, which the 2013 Rambam Maimonides Medical Journal reinforces as a promoter of heart health. Antioxidants restrict oxidative stress, which over time can result in cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Pomegranate’s antioxidants also break down harmful cholesterol.

Eating this fruit frequently can attenuate heart diseases. In one study, pomegranate juice alleviated arterial stiffness in patients with high cardiovascular risk. Another study observed that pomegranates decreased pressure in the arteries, even after eating a high-fat meal.

Black Beans Are Great For Controlling Blood Pressure

Black beans are great for your heart because they are packed with beneficial nutrients. Some of them, including folate, antioxidants, and magnesium are especially beneficial because they can help to lower blood pressure, which is key when it comes to heart health.

Furthermore, the fiber that they contain helps to keep cholesterol and blood sugar levels regulated. The other great thing about this type of bean is that they’re tasty and are a key ingredient in plenty of dishes.

Salmon Is A Super Food

Many foods that are great for heart health commonly contain omega-3s. Although Omega-3s are fats, they are the healthy kind that help to prevent any heart rhythm disorders and can aid in combating low blood pressure. On top of that, they also have the ability to lower triglycerides and decrease inflammation.

According to the American Heart Association, two servings of salmon a week is the recommended amount for an individual. Another benefit is that salmon is an easy fish to cook. You can bake it on foil in the oven along with any other veggies needed for the meal.

A Blueberry A Day Keeps Heart Disease Away

While blueberries don’t impact insulin or blood pressure, they do provide the “good” type of cholesterol, HDL. A six-month-long study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that diets higher in blueberries relax muscle cells and improves blood flow.

The authors propose that eating one cup of blueberries a day can lessen the risk of heart disease by 13%. Just three cups a week can make a difference in your blood health, arterial stiffness, and risk for type 2 diabetes.

Don’t Forget About Tuna!

Much like salmon, tuna is another fish that has no shortage of omega-3s, specifically Albacore or white tuna, which has more than other varieties of the fish. One great and easy recipe is to grill a steak of tuna with some lemon and dill — you will not be disappointed.

However, if you are going to buy canned tuna (there’s nothing wrong with that) just make sure that the tuna is packed in water and not oil. Too much oil is never good for your heart.

Olive Oil Can Be Beneficial

Although oil isn’t always the best for your heart, olive oil in moderation has some noticeable benefits. It’s a healthy kind of fat made by mashing olives and has very important antioxidants. They can help protect your blood vessels, and substituting it for other saturated fats, like butter, can help lower cholesterol levels.

Olive oil is also extremely versatile and can be used to cook with, as a salad dressing, on vegetables… just about anything. For increased flavor, it’s best to purchase olive oil cold-pressed and use it within six months.

Edamame Is Small But Mighty

While many people might eat these for a light appetizer before a meal at an Asian restaurant, edamame actually has loads of health benefits. They’re soybeans, and soy protein has the ability to lower your cholesterol levels.

One cup of these little green beans also packs the punch of eight grams of heart-healthy fiber. In order to get that amount from wheat bread you would need to eat around four slices, and that’s pretty unhealthy at that point!

Tofu Has The Protein You Need

Another food item that’s packed with soy protein is tofu. It’s also full of healthy minerals, fibers, and polyunsaturated fats. This is a go-to for many vegetarians who need protein, but it’s a great option for anyone! Luckily, there are also countless ways to prepare it, and it absorbs flavors incredibly well.

Sometimes you can even fool someone to eating tofu without them knowing. There are a lot of great tofu soup recipes out there, with one of the most popular being miso soup.

Swiss Chard Has A Plethora Of Healthy Components

Rich in potassium and magnesium, Swiss chart is easily recognizable by its sizable dark green leaves and colorful stalk. The minerals in contains can also help to control blood pressure. It also has lots of heart-healthy fiber, vitamin A, and lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants.

Another cool thing about Swiss chard is that there are so many different ways to prepare it. Even though it may look like an intimidating vegetable, it’s not hard to cook and is delicious.

Barley Can Be A Substitute For Rice

Barley is an excellent substitution for rice. It’s a whole grain and the fiber inside can lower cholesterol levels, as well as lower blood sugar levels. The trick with barley is knowing the difference between hulled or whole grain barley and pearl barley.

Whole grain barley is the healthiest and while pearl barley isn’t bad for you, most of the heart-healthy fiber has been removed. Barley goes great in soups and stews as well!

Oatmeal Is A Great Way To Start Your Day

Oatmeal has countless health benefits, and it’s also a great morning meal that will keep you full for hours, spreading out time between meals and limiting snacking. It also helps maintain blood sugar levels, making it an extra helpful food for people with diabetes.

Oatmeal is also beneficial for your heart by lowering bad cholesterol levels. The best kind of oats to use is either steel-cut or slow-cooked. You can also replace flour with oats in various baked goods if you’re not into eating oatmeal.

Flaxseed Can Be Used In A Variety Of Ways

Regarded by some as one of the most powerful plant foods on the planet, flaxseed has been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, and even diabetes. It is full of omega-3s, fiber, and lignans.

Lignans contain both plant estrogen and antioxidants, with flaxseed having 75 to 800 times more lignans other than other plants. For the best results, grind flaxseed and add to just about anything. Many people like to put them in smoothies or baked goods.

Grilled Or Raw, Eggplants Save Your Blood Flow

Eggplants have long been suggested as a healthy vegetable, but scientists didn’t observe its impact on the heart until recently. In 2011, Food & Function published the first study on eggplants and cardioprotection. The researchers discovered that animals who ate the vegetables had a better ventricular function or healthy blood pumping.

Eggplants also lessen the chance of issues with apoptosis, the end-stage of the heart that signals heart failure. According to the study, both grilled and raw eggplants prevent heart attacks in the same way.

All Forms Of Cherries Are Great

Whether they’re sweet cherries, sour cherries, dried cherries, or even cherry juice, all are good for your health. They are all full of an antioxidant known as anthocyanins which can help protect blood vessels.

A pro tip is that you don’t like eating cherries raw and dealing with the pit, you can use dried cherries. Some good ideas for using dried cherries is baking them into pastries and bread or sprinkling them on just about anything you want.

Tomatoes Can Reduce The Risk Of Heart Disease

Common in many dishes, tomatoes are full of lycopene, a natural plant pigment that has antioxidant properties. These antioxidants can help prevent heart disease by preventing oxidative damage and inflammation.

In a summary of 25 studies, it was clear that consistently eating foods that were rich in lycopene was correlated with less risk of heart disease and stroke. Luckily, tomatoes are cheap, accessible, and common in plenty of meals. So, they shouldn’t be hard to add to any diet.

Raspberries Are A Great Snack

Raspberries are full of polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that helps fix the damage that causes free radicals in your body. They also contain fiber and vitamin C, two things that have been associated with lowering the risk of a stroke.

They’re sweet, tasty, and very easy to eat. A lot of people will realize they ate a whole package of them before it’s too late. All kinds of berries are good for your heart and are a good source of protein.

Skip The Red Wine With Some Red Grapes!

Red grapes contain resveratrol, which helps to keep the platelets in your blood from sticking together. This is the reason why red wine (in moderation) have some heart-healthy advantages over other alcohols.

However, health experts recommend that you don’t start drinking wine for this reason, as drinking alcohol has adverse health effects. One way to avoid drinking wine is to just eat red grapes instead. This way you can ingest resveratrol straight from the source!

Green Tea Is A Very Healthy Drink

In a 2011 review, researchers concluded that drinking green tea helps to reduce cholesterol (high cholesterol has been associated with heart disease and stroke). However, the review was not specific how much green tea someone would have to drink to achieve the heart benefits of the drink.

It was also later discovered that drinking green tea could help those who are suffering from high blood pressure, another issue that is harmful to the heart.

Liver Is The Healthiest Of All Organ Meats

Although it may not sound appealing to everyone, if prepared properly, liver can taste just as good as many other meat products. If you still can’t get past the fact you’re eating liver, just think of all the health benefits!

Of all of the organ meats, it has been scientifically proven that the liver is the most nutrient-dense. It contains a lot of folic acid, copper, iron, zinc, and chromium, all which increase the blood’s hemoglobin levels and therefore promote a healthy heart.

Broccoli Is Easy To Make And Good For You

Broccoli has tons of B vitamins and folic acid, and B vitamins are known to help relieve anxiety, depression, and stress. Relieving stress can in turn help decrease blood pressure which is always good for the heart.

In addition, some studies suggest that eating steamed broccoli regularly can help prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels. Broccoli is also incredibly easy to make and can be steamed in the microwave in a matter of minutes for a healthy part of a meal.

Do Yourself A Favor And Crack Open A Pistachio (Or Two)

It might take a little time to get them open, and they tend to be expensive, but studies indicate that it’s a good idea to snack on pistachios. For starters, they’re a terrific source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants.

Additionally, research has shown that these tree nuts may help to lower blood pressure and bring down levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood, lowering cardiovascular risk. When eaten in moderation, pistachios make a great snack.

Bananas Have Very Little Fat, Cholesterol, Or Sodium

Bananas are certainly one of the most convenient health foods out there, and they’re a really good source of vitamins C and B6. But bananas earned their spot as a powerhouse food because they’re loaded with potassium – 320-400 mg, or about 10% of your daily potassium needs.

Potassium is important for heart health because it helps to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance, which can reduce the risk of cardiac arrest.

Bell Peppers Add Color And Flavor

Colorful, tasty, and good for your heart, bell peppers are loaded with helpful antioxidants that help prevent cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and can slow the development of cardiovascular diseases. Peppers also contain potassium, an essential mineral that may improve heart health.

Red bell peppers are full of lycopene, which is not found in green peppers. Lycopene has been shown to reduce free-radical damage, lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels, and increase “good HDL cholesterol.

Spice Up Your Meals With A Dash Of Cayenne Pepper

Many people use cayenne pepper as a spice, but you can also take it in capsule form. Health Care Imaging reports that cayenne pepper is “used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels — including to improve poor circulation, reverse excessive blood clotting, lower high cholesterol and prevent heart disease.”

Capsaicin is the active ingredient in cayenne peppers that gives them their medicinal properties. It’s been known to have pain-relieving properties as well. The more capsaicin in a pepper, the hotter the taste.

Don’t Overlook Blackberries

Other types of berries might be more popular, but don’t overlook blackberries! They have some of the highest levels of antioxidants and fiber of all the berries. They also contain vitamin C, iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

These tiny, tasty fruits are low in calories, but their vitamins can help heart health by reducing oxidative stress and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Try sprinkling some on your cereal in the morning.

Papaya Is Full Of Antioxidants

Papaya is yet another food that can help protect your heart. That’s because it’s high in lycopene and Vitamin C, both of which can help prevent heart disease. Additionally, the antioxidants in papaya can increase the effects of HDL cholesterol, the “good” type.

And there’s more! According to Healthline, “studies note that fermented papaya can reduce oxidative stress in older adults and people with prediabetes, mild hypothyroidism and liver disease.”

Herring Has More Omega-3 Fatty Acids Than Tuna Or Salmon

According to the Mayo Clinic, eating at least two servings of fish a week can help lower the risk of heart disease. That’s because the omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients found in some types of fish can lower blood pressure and reduce clotting, thereby decreasing the risk of strokes and heart failure.

Fatty fish are the best because they contain the most Omega-3 fatty acids. The American Heart Association reports that herring has more omega-3 fatty acids than tuna or salmon.

In Moderation, Eggs Can Be Beneficial To The Heart

Eggs have gone through scrutiny by health experts for many years. They’re a source of cholesterol, but in moderation can provide some benefits. According to the American Heart Association, “researchers studied nearly half a million Chinese adults over nine years and found up to one egg per day led to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.”

The key here is that people should know their risk factors and pay close attention to the amount of cholesterol in their diet.

Lean Beef Can Help Lower Stress

Although many experts have cautioned against red meat for years, it turns out that it might not be as unhealthy as though. In fact, the National Library of Medicine reports that “lean red meat, trimmed of visible fat, which is consumed in a diet low in saturated fat does not increase cardiovascular risk factors.”

Red meat is a good source of protein, zinc, iron, and B vitamins, which have been found in some studies to help lower stress (which is good for the heart!). Look for cuts marked “loin” or “round” and limit your intake to 4 to 6 ounces.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, kidney disease kills more than 90,000 Americans annually. That’s more than breast cancer or prostate cancer. If we want to live long, healthy lives, we need to take care of our kidneys. But our daily habits might be preventing us from doing that.

It’s not too late to unlearn these habits. Simple changes to your diet, supplements, and sleep will prevent kidney disease in the future. New habits may also prevent other illnesses such as diabetes. For the sake of your kidneys, consider changing these everyday habits.

Use Herbs Instead Of Salt

Eating excessive amounts of salt upsets the balance in your blood, which makes your kidneys struggle to remove water. According to 2018 research in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension, this could lead to kidney disease. Unfortunately, many Western diets tend to overindulge in salt.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that people limit their salt intake to one teaspoon per day, or 2,300 mg. That’s about one-third less than most people consume. Watch out for high sodium in pre-cooked and processed foods, as this is where kidney damage can sneak up on you.

Stay tuned to see how your bathroom habits could lead to kidney disease.

Don’t Take Too Many Pain Relievers

According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, heavy use of pain relievers like Advil results in 5,000 cases of kidney failure in the U.S. each year. But how much is too much? Researchers noted that the most dangerous time to take painkillers is after fasting. If you take pain relievers with food occasionally for a headache, you should be fine.

According to Stanford medical professor Dr. Grant Lipman, pain relievers decrease the blood flow to your kidneys. Over time, this could cause your kidneys some serious strain. Dr. Lipman says that one in five marathon runners will develop the risk of kidney damage.

Treat Yourself When You Get Sick

The Center for Disease Control estimates that most people get two to three colds a year. Although these common illnesses are annoying, don’t ignore them. The longer you’re sick, the more antibodies your body will produce. Over time, these antibodies may inflame your kidneys.

Don’t be one of the 72% of Americans who go to work while sick. Be very cautious of bacterial infections such as strep throat and ear infections, because these have the highest risk of straining your kidneys. Take care of yourself to get well as soon as possible.

Don’t Hold It In

Believe it or not, holding in your pee is a primary cause of kidney problems. Dr. Cheamandeep Bali of Toronto Naturopathic Health Clinic told Huffington Post that ignoring nature’s call causes many health problems. The longer that urine stays in your body, the more bacteria it produces. When bacteria travels to your kidneys, you’re in trouble, Dr. Bali says.

Urologist Mark Gordon says that most people use the restroom eight to 10 times a day. Sometimes, you have to hold in your urine, but don’t make that a routine. If you have to go, you have to go.

Coming up: everyday prescriptions and vitamins could be harming your kidneys.

The Danger Of Processed Foods

To stay fresh for longer, processed foods often contain high amounts of sodium, which will damage your kidneys. But that’s not the only kidney-harming nutrient in processed food, according to NEPHCURE Kidney International. Other culprits include potassium and phosphorus.

While kidneys usually filter through potassium levels, too much potassium can put a strain on kidneys. The same goes for phosphorus. People with weak or ailing kidneys have to limit the amount of potassium and phosphorus they consume. If you eat processed foods sparingly, you won’t have this problem.

Steer Clear Of Soda

Unlike other drinks, soda provides no nutrients other than sugar. A typical 12-ounce soda has as much sugar as three and a half donuts. Researchers agree that drinking two or more sodas a day doubles your risk of kidney disease.

And it’s not just the sugar. In 2007, researchers noted that cola increases kidney risk due to its phosphoric acid. This acid threatens to mess with gene mutation to damage kidneys over time. Limiting your soda intake to one a day will drastically improve your health. Better yet, restrict your soda splurge to once a week.

Coming up: how sleep can affect your kidneys.

Stick To Your Prescriptio

Take your daily medications as prescribed. Even if you feel better, stopping or pausing your medication can hurt your kidneys. In particular, blood pressure and pain medications put a strain on your kidneys if you take them sporadically. Some can cause a “rebound” where a patient experiences a second heart attack or kidney failure.

Kidneys benefit from routine. If you change your medication every day, you’ll throw your entire body off. Talk to your doctor about whether your medication could harm your kidneys. Some antibiotics pose a substantial threat to kidney health.

Research Your Supplements Before You Take Them

If you take daily supplements or vitamins, beware. High doses of certain supplements have been reported to harm your kidneys. A 2012 review by the American Society of Nephrology pinpoints the main culprits: cranberry, willow bark, wormwood oil, licorice, geranium, and vitamin C.

In particular, high doses of vitamin C and cranberry increase your risk of kidney stones. If you have a pre-existing condition, such as diabetes or an auto-immune disorder, consult your doctor before taking supplements. Even natural supplements like turmeric will hurt your kidneys if combined with certain medications.

Drinks to limit and indulge in are coming soon.

You’re Exercising, Right?

Regular exercise isn’t just for dieters. It’s also for those who care about kidney health. The National Kidney Foundation states that exercise lowers blood pressure, improves sleep, and enhances muscle function. In other words, exercise reduces all the major risk factors for kidney disease.

You don’t have to go hard to see the benefits. During a 2019 study, people with kidney disease benefited from 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. That’s a little over 20 minutes of walking, gardening, dancing, or biking per day. Plus, exercise releases endorphins to help you feel happier.

Don’t Go Too Hard At The Gym

It is possible to “exercise yourself to death.” Rhabdomyolysis, often called Rhabdo, is a syndrome caused by muscle breakdown. When several muscles are injured, they release enzymes that hurt your kidneys. In 40% of cases, this can result in kidney failure.

Rhabdomyolysis is dangerous but rare. Dr. Maureen Brogan of New York Medical College says that most cases occur during the first class. For instance, if a person goes to hard during their first time cycling, they’re at a higher risk. Muscles need to build up slowly, so don’t push yourself too hard.

Lighten Up On The Energy Drinks

Researchers are demanding that the FDA regulate energy drinks, which they have yet to do. Why? Because a study in Frontiers in Public Health links kidney disease to energy drinks, especially in children. Excess caffeine produces high blood pressure and stress, all of which lead to kidney damage.

Another concern revolves around the amino acid taurine. Often found in energy drinks and sports supplements, taurine tackles the kidneys head-on and is potentially dangerous to those with chronic kidney disorders. Until more research is done, err on the side of caution and limit your energy drinks.

Are You Drinking Enough Water?

One of the kidney’s main roles is to filter water, so you must keep it hydrated. The National Hydration Council reported that most kidney stones result from chronic dehydration. When you’re dehydrated, your urine has a higher concentration of minerals. These minerals can form crystals inside your kidney that grow into stones.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, there’s no hard rule on how much water you should drink. The Institute of Medicine estimates nine cups a day for women and 13 for men. But your recommended water intake varies depending on how thirsty you feel.

Coming soon: butter or margarine? The wrong choice could hurt your kidneys.

Too Much Red Meat Is Possibly Toxic

While eating red meat is healthy on occasion, consuming too much will hurt your kidneys over time. The Journal of the American Society of Nephrology confirms that red meat is “possibly kidney toxic.” The reason is still unclear, but researchers suggest that red meat may produce too much dietary acid.

On the flip side, plant-based proteins repair kidney injury. According to the research, replacing one serving of red meat per week lowers your risk of kidney disease by 62%. It’s a tiny change that could impact your health in the long run.

It’s Good To Stand Up More Often, When Possible

If you have a sedentary job, you’ll want to watch out. Sitting for extended periods every day results in a higher risk of kidney disease. During a 2018 study in PLoS One, researchers found that an extra hour of physical activity per day reduces your chances of kidney failure significantly.

Researchers still don’t understand why sitting encourages kidney disease. Dr. Thomas Yates of the University of Lancaster suggests that exercise leads to lower blood glucose and cholesterol. High blood sugar and blood pressure both contribute to kidney failure. Standing instead of sitting will improve your kidney health.

Don’t Light Up

Most people know that smoking hurts your lungs and heart. But did you know that it damages your kidneys, too? During a 2000 study in Annals of Internal Medicine, chronic smokers (current and former) had a higher risk of kidney disease. Substance abuse creates creatinine that injures your kidneys.

To make matters worse, this kidney damage does not create symptoms. So people might be poisoning their kidneys without even knowing. The one bright side is that former smokers have less damage than current smokers. It’s never too late to quit.

Skip The Butter

A recent health trend advocates for replacing margarine with butter. In terms of your kidneys, this isn’t a good option. Butter contains saturated fats which, in high amounts, can damage your kidneys. According to the National Kidney Foundation, these fats raise LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind) that harm your kidneys.

You can enjoy butter in small amounts, but don’t eat it evry day. If you use margarine instead, look for one with no trans fat or “hydrogenated” fats. Trans fats are worse than saturated fats in raising LDL cholesterol.

Are your eating habits slowly deteriorating your kidneys…?

Try Not To Overeat, Even During The Holidays

During holidays and celebrations, many people treat themselves by eating too much. But overeating strains your kidneys, according to Dr. Sreedhar Mandayam of Baylor College. The more you eat, the harder your kidneys work to sift through all the food, says Dr. Mandayam.

The worst overeating combination involves a lot of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Unfortunately, most Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners include these. You can indulge occasionally, but take care not to overeat regularly. Limit your portion sizes and only eat when you’re hungry, not tired or bored.

Sugar or artificial sweetener? The answer is coming soon.

Work To Lower Stress

Chronic stress leads to kidney disease. For years, researchers have agreed that stress harms your kidney health, although they still don’t understand why. In Advances in Chronic Kidney Disease, scientists speculate that stress raises blood pressure, which scars your kidneys over time.

When people feel stressed, their eating and sleep often decline, which can become a cause for kidney problems. If you’re struggling with chronic stress, tackle it first by contacting a mental health professional. It could be the root of your other health problems.

Substitute Sugar

In moderate amounts, sugar isn’t a problem for your kidneys. The issue arises when your blood sugar rises too high. According to the American Diabetes Association, high blood sugar and diabetes force the kidneys to filter too much blood. Overworking can cause the kidneys to develop diseases over time.

Researchers from the University of Montreal found a symbiotic relationship between diabetes and kidney disease. Diabetes causes kidney disease, and kidney disease can cause diabetes. Get your blood glucose checked regularly to prevent the chance of both diseases, and limit your sugar intake.

When You Stay Up Late, Your Kidneys Are Overworked

In 2016, researchers from the University of Chicago linked poor sleep to a higher risk of kidney disease. Participants who slept 6.5 hours a night had a 19% higher chance of kidney failure. The reason is that your sleeping cycle tells your kidneys when to work and when to rest.

Researchers for the National Kidney Foundation explain that when you stay up late, your kidneys continue to work hard. Over time, chronic sleep disruption can tire out these organs. Remember that you need between seven and nine hours per sleep every night.

Artificial Sweeteners Aren’t Much Better

While a packet of Splenda may lower your calorie count, a growing body of research suggests that it harms your body. During a 2009 study, researchers discovered that drinking diet soda (an artificially-sweetened drink) increases the risk of kidney disease by 30%.

According to the researchers, less than two artificially-sweetened drinks per day won’t hurt your kidneys. Although more research needs to be done on the topic, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Replace your artificial sweeteners with honey or Stevia if you want a sweet iced tea.

A harmful over-the-counter medication is coming soon.

Only Drink In Moderation

Drinking forces your kidneys to filter more harmful substances. If you drink frequently, you’ll cause your kidneys to overwork. The National Kidney Foundation defines over-drinking as “more than four drinks daily.” One drink equals a single glass, 12-ounce bottle, or shot.

On the other hand, a 2005 study discovered drinking in moderation may benefit your kidneys. Participants who had at least seven drinks per week (one or two glasses every day) experienced a 30% lower risk of kidney dysfunction. If you are a drinker, limit your servings to stay healthy.

Don’t Use Bodybuilding Medications

Athletes who use steroids may gain muscle, but they’ll cripple their kidneys. During a 2009 study, researchers found that nine out of ten bodybuilders developed kidney scarring from bodybuilding medications. When the athletes stopped using these steroids, their kidneys healed over time.

The American Society of Nephrology advises against steroids. They can raise your cholesterol, lower protein in your blood, and cause swelling–all of which harm kidneys. While you can take steroids for some kidney treatments, don’t take bodybuilding medications recreationally.

Some Heartburn Drugs Hurt You Over Time

While some heartburn medications are safe to take every day, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) aren’t. Research in Kidney International suggests that PPIs, which suppress the acid in your stomach, may impair your kidneys over time. Regularly taking PPIs raises your risk of chronic kidney disease by 26%.

Fortunately, H2 Blockers (a different type of heartburn medication) didn’t produce these effects. If you need to take daily heartburn medication, talk to your doctor about switching to an H2 Blocker. If you only take PPIs occasionally–perhaps once every couple of days–you don’t have to worry.

If you want to save your kidneys, limit this one type of food…

Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly

Regularly drinking coffee doesn’t harm your kidneys. But if you have several cups a day, you may want to consider the risks, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Caffeine creates sudden spikes in blood pressure. Although research has yet to conclude the effect this has on kidneys, you may want to be wary.

Dr. Jessica Saville of the National Kidney Foundation recommends drinking less than four cups of coffee per day. Remember that coffee additives, such as cream or flavored syrup in lattes, increases the amount of sugar and fats in your diet. These also injure your kidneys over time.

Limit Shellfish In Your Diet

Eating too much seafood–especially shellfish–will beat at your kidneys over time. In the 2014 Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, researchers found a toxic chemical called domoic acid. Also called “Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning,” domoic acid injures your kidneys.

According to the research, low quantities of domoic acid still do harm. To put this in perspective, you would need 100 times the quantity to hurt your brain, but it still hurts your kidneys. If you eat a lot of seafood, you may want to cut back. You have a higher risk of kidney disease than most people.

How MRIs, CT Scans And X-Rays May Hurt You

While getting an MRI isn’t a habit, it’s still an action that could contribute to kidney harm. The tests themselves aren’t an issue, but the contrast dye used could cause problems. The effect of these dyes resulted in a new disease called Contrast Induced Nephropathy (CIN).

According to the National Kidney Foundation, CIN causes the kidneys to shut down for two to three days. Fortunately, CIN is reversible, and only certain contrast dyes increase the risk of this illness. Talk to a health professional if you’re worried about contracting CIN.

There’s more than one way to keep your body healthy. Simple changes, such as taking brisk walks and eating more fruit, can strengthen your heart. Keep reading for research-backed habits of heart-healthy people.

Eat Certain Kinds Of Fat

Our bodies need healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The “bad fat” that people advise against is trans fat, often found in industry-produced foods such as refrigerator dough and creamers. In the British Medical Journal (BMJ), a 2015 study observed that saturated fat does not harm the heart, but trans fat increases the risk of disease by 21%.

According to the American Heart Association, trans fat raises LDL cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol that harms our heart. Watch out for hydrogenated oils, a trans-fat solution that the FDA doesn’t consider safe. Whenever you can, pick out foods with 0% trans fat.

Here’s Another Reason To Get More Sleep

In 2014, researchers reported the heart-healthy habits of people who they had studied for over ten years. Of all the habits, sufficient sleep was given an honorary mention in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology. Aiming to sleep for at least seven hours a night significantly keeps your heart healthy and disease-free.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, deep sleep activates chemicals that relax your heart rate and blood pressure. Prolonged periods of restlessness, such as with sleep apnea, increase the risk of heart disease by 58%. If you’re struggling to catch seven hours of sleep, talk to your doctor.

For The Sake Of Your Heart, Check Your Stress

When we’re incredibly stressed, our breathing quickens, our muscles tense, and our heart rate accelerates. These are physiological results of stress that have a real impact on your heart. Chronic stress may wear out your heart over time, even in those with no prior history of cardiovascular disease.

“This isn’t just an anxiety attack,” asserts Dr. Deepak Bhatt, director of the Integrated Interventional Cardiovascular Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “When you do a cardiac catheterization procedure on [these patients], an artery that was previously open is now closed.” Engage in a stress-relieving activity such as meditation, a bath, or playing video games, for ten to 15 minutes every day.

Stay tuned to learn how much exercise lowers your risk of a heart attack.

Seriously, Eat More Fruits And Vegetables

Which fruits and vegetables support your heart? That’s easy: they all do. In 2017, researchers scrutinized 95 studies and recorded their findings in the International Journal of Epidemiology. They found that five servings (about 2.5 cups) of fruits and vegetables per day slightly lowers your risk of heart disease. Upping that portion to ten servings decreases your risk by 28% and premature death by 31%.

According to the study, the foods that offered the most benefits include apples, citrus fruits, pears, leafy green vegetables, and yellow-orange vegetables. In short, any fruit or vegetable will help.

Don’t Keep The TV On All Day

In 2015, researchers assembled data after studying almost 70,000 women over 20 years. When the study began, nearly all women had diabetes or heart disease, and many cut their heart attack risk by 92%. One of the six healthy habits that they mentioned was watching less than seven hours of TV weekly.

The simple explanation is that TV time robs you of exercise time. A 2019 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association noted that those who watch TV and exercise don’t lower their heart health. Otherwise, watching four hours of TV a day is worse for your heart than a desk job, the study concluded.

Just Fifteen Minutes Of Exercise Helps You Live Longer

Exercise strengthens your heart, lowers your blood pressure, and reduces stress. Although many people know this, they still debate over how intensely one should exercise. In 2016, research from The American Journal of Medicine analyzed exercise intensity. The authors found that 15 minutes of daily exercise lengthened one’s life three years beyond their peers’.

“The truth is that if you’re exercising for health, it takes very little effort to see enormous benefits,” said Dr. Harvey Simon, the study’s author and an associate professor at the Massachusetts General Hospital. He claimed that 15 minutes of walking or gardening lowers one’s risk of heart attack and stroke.

Coming up: How standing more can prevent heart disease.

Your Friends Can Literally Save Your Heart

If you need another reason to maintain fulfilling relationships, here’s one. Research shows that your friendships impact your heart health. In a 2017 study by the American Heart Association, scientists found that more social integration means less heart disease. This research was backed by a ten-year study review in Frontiers in Psychology.

According to Boston Scientific, researchers believe that social interaction reduces stress and depression, both of which contribute to cardiovascular disease down the line. If you want to carve out more social time, join a support group, adopt a pet, or volunteer at an organization.

Drink Water–At Least Five Glasses A Day

Dehydration results in a less-healthy heart, according to a 2002 study in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Drinking five glasses daily will keep your heart strong and happy. In contrast, drinking two or fewer glasses of water may weaken your heart over time and open the gates to cardiovascular disease.

Research in the British Journal of Haematology found that blood viscosity directly relates to heart health. The thicker your blood is, the harder your heart works, which may tire it over time. Drinking plenty of water will lower your blood viscosity, so your heart can work with little strain.

Stand Up!

Desk jobs are as hard on the back as they are on the heart. In 2015, a meta-analysis of 41 studies noted that remaining sedentary increases adults’ risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. In another 2019 study, researchers stated that eliminating an hour of sitting time per day lowers the likelihood of heart disease by 26%.

The trick is to not sit for too long. If you have a standing desk, use it. Take brief walks throughout the day, or park your car farther away from your office. Consistent exercise will improve your heart health as well.

The truth about healthy BMI is coming soon…

Measure Your Blood Pressure Frequently

According to a scientific analysis in The Lancet, high blood pressure was the leading cause of heart disease in 2010. This condition leads to hypertensive heart disease, which thickens the heart and narrows the arteries. The American Heart Association asserts that avoiding high blood pressure “should be a healthcare priority.”

If you don’t have high blood pressure, work to prevent it. Checking your blood pressure once a month or even once a year can help. A 2015 study in The New England Journal of Medicine reports that the risk of heart disease lowers with a blood pressure of 120 mm Hg or less.

Don’t Assume That You’re In The Clear

If you haven’t had a blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar check-up in a couple of years, you’ve waited too long. The American Heart Association recommends getting your blood pressure checked once a year since symptoms don’t appear in most people. Blood glucose should be measured every three years, and cholesterol should be monitored every four to six years.

“Don’t assume you’re not at risk,” advises Dr. Robert Ostfeld, director of preventive cardiology at Montefiore Health System. If your cholesterol or blood sugar levels aren’t in the normal range, you’ll need more frequent check-ups and possibly medication.

Know Your Ideal BMI

Weight is a touchy subject because it often tugs at peoples’ self-esteem. But for doctors, weight is less about what you look like and more about heart health. Along with other studies, 2018 research in JAMA Cardiology concluded that high BMI (body mass index) leads to a higher risk of heart disease.

To maintain a healthy BMI, you need to know yours first. Visit a doctor to learn about a healthy weight range, as online BMI charts don’t take individual body types into account. “There is no one-size-fits-all,” says Dr. Chanté Wiegand, ND, a Naturopathic Doctor and Director of Education at The Synergy Company.

To Help Your Heart, Brush Your Teeth Daily

Believe it or not, gum disease carries some of the same risk factors as heart disease. According to Harvard Health, bacteria in the gums may travel to blood vessels. These bacteria inflame the arteries and create tiny blood clots that heighten the risk of stroke. Study after study has reported this correlation.

There is some debate over how much influence oral health has on the heart. In 2012, scientists from the American Heart Association reviewed several studies and decided that gum disease doesn’t always harm the heart. Even so, you’ll want to brush and floss daily if you can.

Frozen pizza was once thought of as a fad and a quick solution for lunch. Today the frozen pizza industry is big business. More than 200 million Americans consume frozen pizza annually.

Customers can get pizzeria-style pizza in various styles, such as stuffed crust, for under $10 per box. Here are some of the best and worst frozen pizza brands.

Best: DiGiorno Rising Crust Supreme Pizza

DiGiorno Rising Crust Supreme pizza is the best-frozen pizza for several reasons. It contains delicious ingredients such as high-quality meats, vegetables, and dairy products.

The special rising crust holds in the flavor and moisture, making it especially delicious. People love the crunch of the crust and the abundance of toppings, making it taste like it was just cooked in a restaurant.

Worst: Totino’s Supreme Party Pizza

Totino’s frozen pizza is an iconic American brand beloved by many. Founded in 1951 and now owned by General Mills, Totino’s has been consistently providing delicious and convenient pizzas.

Although many people enjoy their inexpensive options, some have noticed their supreme pizza is not so great. Complaints range from funky pepperoni ingredients to a burnt cheese taste.

Best: Simple Truth Roasted Vegetable Pizza

Simple Truth’s Roasted Vegetable Frozen Pizza is a great option for pizza night. A perfect balance of vegetables, cheese, and bread makes for a tasty and healthy meal.

The vegetables are nicely cooked, and the crust is crisp and golden brown on top. The flavor is delicious, and the price is right.

Worst: Jeno’s Crisp ‘n Tasty Pepperoni Pizza For One

Jeno’s Crisp ‘n Tasty frozen pepperoni pizza is a disappointment due to its low-quality ingredients. The processed cheese and pizza sauce are overly salty and artificial-tasting, and the “pepperoni” slices don’t have enough flavor.

Despite having a mainstream following since the early 1990s, the pizza fails to deliver the flavor-filled experience it advertises.

Best: Chopsie’s Cheese Pizza

Chopsie’s frozen pizza is one of the best brands of frozen pizza available. The cheese pizza is made with fresh ingredients and authentic Italian spices for a delicious and convenient meal.

Customers can enjoy a ready-to-eat pizza made with real mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, tomato sauce, and herbs. Chopsie’s frozen pizza is a great option because it is certified Kosher and has been in production since 1950.

Best: Against the Grain Gourmet Three Cheese Pizza

Against the Grain Gourmet Three Cheese pizza is made with organic unbleached wheat flour, shredded mozzarella, organic mozzarella and cream cheese, tomato, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, garlic, oregano, and basil.

This tasty, artisan-style pizza has a light, crunchy, thin crust that’s loaded with all the delicious melt-in-your-mouth flavors of three classic Italian cheeses. It’s 100% dairy free, organic, and certified gluten-free, making it one of the better-frozen pizza brands.

Best: California Pizza Kitchen Uncured Pepperoni & Hot Honey

Founded in 1985, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) has gained fame for its delicious offerings and high-quality food.

Their signature Uncured Pepperoni and Hot Honey Pizza is made with a perfectly seasoned crust, and the toppings were amazing – uncured pepperoni, smoked bacon, Fresno chilies, and drizzled with spiced honey combined with parmesan and mozzarella cheese to create an unforgettable masterpiece.

Worst: Wegmans Gluten-Free Greek Pizza

Wegmans’ frozen pizza has been a popular choice since the 1970s, but their gluten-free option is not necessarily a great choice. The crust is made from white rice, millet, and tapioca flour, resulting in a dense, chewy texture that may not appeal to everyone.

Additionally, the thin crust and lack of condiments offer very little in the way of presentation and flavor, making it an unappealing option for those looking for a quality pizza experience.

Best: Tombstone Hulapeno Pizza

Tombstone Pizza has been a leader in the frozen pizza industry since 1962 when it earned Best Pizza at the National Frozen Food Convention. Their Hulapeno pizza is one of the tastiest frozen pizzas you can enjoy.

This unique pizza is made with 100% real cheese and a zesty blend of Hula peppers, tomatoes, and spices, giving it the perfect spice level. The golden and crispy crust is topped with a decorative melted cheese edge, making it a hearty and eye-catching meal.

Best: Tony’s Cheese Pizza

Tony’s Frozen Pizza Company has been producing pizzas since the 1950s and is one of the most beloved brands in the country. Its signature cheese pizza is made from a robust tomato sauce, a special blend of cheese, and a golden and crispy crust.

The pizza is loved for its deliciousness and convenience, making it a fan favorite among Americans. With its classic taste and long-standing tradition, Tony’s Frozen Pizza Company is well-known for creating one of the most beloved frozen pizzas.

Best: Red Baron Fully Loaded Pizza

The Red Baron Pizza Company has been pleasing palettes since 1973. Their Fully Loaded Pizza is a fan favorite and definitely lives up to its name. It’s generously loaded with the perfect combination of pepperoni, Italian sausage, beef, onions, red and green peppers, black olives, and cheese.

It’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. With a generous size and excellent taste, this pizza is sure to please your entire family!

Worst: Newman’s Own Thin & Crispy Margherita Pizza

Founded in 1982, Newman’s Own pizza has a disappointingly thin and crispy crust, which would be better if prepared otherwise. Their Margherita pizza includes organic tomatoes and basil, which were not particularly flavorful. The topping of whole milk mozzarella and Romano cheese is average, and the oregano adds an unwelcome aftertaste.

Newman’s profits are donated to charities which is an honorable gesture, but their commitment to high-quality ingredients is questionable, given the artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives used in their pizzas.

Worst: Banza Roasted Veggie Pizza

Founded in 2014 by two brothers in Detroit, Banza fails to deliver on a classic. Chickpea Pizzas may sound like a great option for pizza lovers, offering a tasty yet healthy food option. However, while they can be packed with protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins, the baking process and resulting presentation are sub-par compared to traditional pizzas.

Plus, they have only half the calories, which is likely due to their lack of traditional pizza toppings. Unfortunately, Banza Chickpea Pizzas fall short of offering a true pizza experience.

Best: Screamin Sicilian Mother Of Meat Pizza

Screamin’ Sicilian is an amazing American food and beverage company founded by two Italian immigrants in 2004. They specialize in high-quality and unique frozen pizzas, strombolis, and calzones. Their most popular product, the Mother of Meat pizza, is a delicious combination of salami, pepperoni, bacon, and Italian sausage that creates a robust flavor.

Plus, this pizza is made with healthy ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and has no trans fat. Enjoying Screamin’ Sicilian for a meal is always a treat!

Worst: Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic & Pesto Pizza

Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic and Pesto Pizza is one of the worst frozen pizzas available. It looks nothing like the appetizing picture on the box and appears overcooked, dried out, and burnt.

Despite having been on the market since 1967, the pizza tastes far from fresh. The pesto flavor is lost, and the garlic is dried up and tasteless. Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic and Pesto Pizza is a total disappointment.

Best: Signature Select Barbecue Recipe Chicken Pizza

The Signature Select brand of Safeway Inc. offers an incredibly delicious and nutritious Barbecue Recipe Chicken pizza. With a perfectly thin and crunchy crust, the pizza is filled with juicy chicken, onions, red peppers, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese and finished with a lip-smacking tangy barbecue sauce.

All ingredients are 100% natural, low in saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol, and high in Vitamins A, C, and calcium. It’s the perfect pizza for an enjoyable yet healthy meal.

Best: Smart Flour Gluten-Free Pepperoni Pizza

Smart Flour Foods was founded in 2005 by a group of individuals dedicated to crafting nutritious, delicious gluten-free foods.

Their signature product, Smart Flour gluten-free pizza, is a great-tasting pizza base made with a unique blend of ancient grains. The dough is certified organic and free from the top 8 allergens, making it a safe and delicious meal for all and one of the better options for frozen pizza on the market.

Best: Sam’s Choice Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Sam’s Choice frozen pizza is a cut above the rest. It is a private label brand created by Cott Beverages for Walmart stores, first introduced in 1991 as Sam’s American Choice and later renamed after Sam Walton.

Its stuffed crust pepperoni pizza has become a favorite choice for pizza lovers. The cheesy, stuffed crust is made with quality ingredients and has exceeded expectations in both flavor and texture

Worst: Wild Mike’s Ultimate 4 Cheese Pizza

Wild Mike’s Ultimate Pizza is no longer an Authentic Italian-style pizza. Founded in 1967 by Ron Piazza, this once-praised pizza franchise is now known for its mediocre sauce and wood-tasting crust.

The four-cheese pizza also does not live up to expectations as it is a blend of mozzarella, parmesan, asiago, and romano cheeses, disappointing any Swiss-style and Italian-style cheese lovers. Do not let the name fool you; Wild Mike’s Ultimate Pizza should not be enjoyed any day of the week.

Best: 365 Whole Foods Market Thin Crust Pepperoni Pizza

365 Whole Foods Market’s thin-crust pepperoni pizza is an ideal dinner option for those looking for a simple and healthy meal.

All the ingredients used are all-natural, such as preservative-free mozzarella cheese, tempeh pepperoni, and their own tomato sauce. The dough is wheat-based and seasoned with only sea salt. The ingredients are a pleasant alternative to the competition. Eating this pizza is a guilt-free pleasure.

Worst: Freschetta Gluten Free 4-Cheese Medley Pizza

Freschetta Gluten Free 4-Cheese Medley Pizza does not live up to its claims of fresh, authentic Italian-style pizza.

The cheese is messy and runny, with an unpleasant sandpaper-like crust – no one would want to eat it. Not to mention, the health benefits that Freschetta has advertised since 1985 are absent – this pizza has very little calcium, vitamins, and protein. Overall, the pizza is unsatisfying and disappointing – best to stay away from this one.

Worst: ShopRite Stores Gluten Free Pepperoni Pizza

Although it’s a healthy option for frozen pizza, ShopRite Stores’ Gluten-free pepperoni pizza falls short of the better brands. It is made with a multigrain crust of ancient grains, including sorghum, amaranth, quinoa, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.

Unfortunately, these qualities do not make up for the pizza’s dry, crumbly texture and poor flavor. All in all, it’s not worth the price and falls short of the better brands.

Best: Sasquatch Pizza Co. Triple Pepperoni Pizza

The Sasquatch Co. triple pepperoni pizza is a delicious choice of frozen pizza. It is packed with three delicious types of pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and a crust made with a heavenly blend of herbs and spices.

Its company’s history began in 1933 when it started specializing in frozen pizza. They continue to make high-quality pizzas that are great for any occasion and are a hit with pizza lovers everywhere.

Best: Stouffer’s French Bread Pepperoni Pizza

Stouffer’s Pepperoni French Bread Pizzas are made with an authentic blend of herbs, spices, and real pepperoni, placed atop oven-baked French bread and covered with melted cheese. This convenient meal is sure to please everyone’s pizza cravings.

Stouffer’s French Bread Pizza is an easy-to-prepare, classic pizza dish. First created by Bob Petrillose in the 1960s, the recipe was licensed to Stouffer’s and brought to households everywhere in the country. Today it remains one of the best-tasting and most convenient brands in the frozen foods aisle.

Worst: Tree Tavern Cheese Pizza

Tree Tavern Cheese Pizza was a family favorite of mine growing up. The secret ingredients to the delicious pizza are a unique blend of whole milk cheese and garlic powder. The result is an incredibly flavorful and crisp pie.

It was a landmark location in Paterson through the 1950s and 1960s, and the Francia family presided over the restaurant from the beginning. While tradition and history favor the brand, this pizza is best enjoyed in the restaurant.

Best: American Flatbread Sausage & Cheese Frozen Pizza

American Flatbread’s Sausage and Cheese frozen pizza is truly fantastic! It’s made with natural ingredients, ample gooey cheese, and flavorful sausage that simply can’t be beaten. Prepared with a dedication to quality, this pizza is sure to bring joy to your taste buds. The bottom has a delightful crispness that really stands out.

This pizza has quickly become one of my favorites – the perfect all-in-one with great flavor that tastes and looks amazing! Highly recommended!

Worst: Amy’s Cheese Pizza

Amy’s Cheese Pizza is a must-have for the serious cheese lover. Their cheese pizza is no exception – loaded with melted mozzarella, aged Parmesan, and ricotta; it is a truly mouthwatering treat.

Founded in 1987 by Andy and Rachel Berliner and incorporated in 1988, Amy’s Kitchen has been producing delicious vegetarian meals for decades. Amy’s Cheese Pizza gets top marks for using organic ingredients, but the final product is less than desirable. Pass on this one!

Worst: Dr. Oetker Virtuoso Thin + Crispy Crust Signature Spinach Pizza

The Virtuoso Signature Spinach frozen pizza by Dr. Oetker, established in 1893, has been delighting customers worldwide since 1870. The pizza is made with a light and crispy crust and plenty of spinach.

Though it makes for a tasty option, the sloppy final product may be a turn-off for some, as there is too much spinach and not enough crust, giving the impression it has been prepared by children.

Best: Caulipower Veggie Pizza

Caulipower is a revolutionary pizza brand that provides delicious and nutritious options for pizza lovers. Created by Gail Becker in 2017, it offers pizzas with 100% real cheese and cauliflower crust, making it a more positive option than most other pizza brands.

The crust is gluten-free, low in calories and fat, and high in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K. With Caulipower, you can enjoy a delicious pizza without sacrificing nutrition.

Best: Lean Cuisine Spinach & Mushroom Pizza

Lean Cuisine’s spinach and mushroom pizza is a much healthier option than other weight-loss products on the market. Since 1992, the classic-style thin-crust pizza has been providing a delicious yet guilt-free meal with a combination of cheesy, mushroom, and spinach toppings and a low-calorie count of 340.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, Lean Cuisine’s Spinach & Mushroom pizzas are a great way to enjoy a guilt-free meal without sacrificing taste.

Knowing your blood type helps with more than just blood transfusions. Researchers have discovered that blood type corresponds with a host of health conditions, such as fertility, heart disease, and dementia.

It’s a good idea to find out whether you are type A, B, AB, or O. It may determine whether mosquitoes are attracted to your blood or whether you have a higher chance of certain cancers. If you’re ready to learn some interesting facts about the different blood types, read on.

Certain Blood Types Are In More Danger Of Dementia

In 2014, research in the journal Neurology discovered that certain blood types have a higher risk of cognitive impairment. AB blood types were 82% more likely to have cognitive impairment, which can lead to dementia. O types have a lower chance.

Researchers suggest that this could have to do with heart disease. AB types also have a greater chance of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Dr. Mary Cushman says that these conditions are closely related, and people with diabetes or stroke are more likely to develop dementia.

Are you a mosquito magnet? Your blood type could have something to do with it!

Blood Can Affect Your Chances Of Getting The Stomach Flu

Norovirus, better known as the stomach flu, infects 200 million people every year. Surprisingly, your blood type might influence your chances of getting it. According to Science Times, the norovirus needs to attach to H1, a type of blood antigen. If your blood doesn’t produce the H1-antigen, you may have some immunity to the stomach flu.

AB blood types tend to be more susceptible to norovirus than O blood types. However, this can vary among individuals. The norovirus consistently changes, and immunity only lasts for around six months. Even if you are less susceptible, you could still get the stomach flu once in a blue moon.

Read on to discover which food allergies are associated with certain blood types.

All Non-O Bloods Risk Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most fatal cancers. A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that non-O blood types–A, B, and AB–have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Of these, B blood types have a greater risk. A has a 32% chance, B has a 51% risk, and AB has a 72% chance. The study’s lead author, Dr. Brian Wolpin, says that scientists don’t yet understand what heightens the pancreatic cancer risk.

To see how blood may raise your risk of diabetes, keep reading.

Some Blood Types Are More Prone To Food Allergies

Studies have found that food allergies might be influenced by blood. In 2007, research in the Journal of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine compared the likelihood of specific food allergies to blood type. Overall, people with negative blood types are more susceptible to food allergies.

According to the study, people with type O blood are more likely to react to gluten, nightshades, eggs, and dairy. Those with AB blood are susceptible to nuts, seafood, eggs, dairy, and gluten allergies. Of course, allergies are also genetic just as blood types are. There is no guarantee that you will have an allergy solely because of your blood type.

Mosquitoes Favor Certain Types Of Blood

Some people need more bug spray than others. Research has found that mosquitoes favor certain blood types. In 2004, research in the Journal of Medical Entomology concluded that people with blood type O receive the most mosquito bites. Blood type A is the next favorite.

Why do mosquitoes prefer certain blood types? According to Dr. Baumann-Blackmore, they’re attracted to chemicals in sweat. Certain blood types produce more substances such as ammonia and lactic acid, which mosquitoes like. If you have blood types A or O, don’t leave the house without some bug spray.

Mosquitos can carry malaria. Read on to find out how blood type could affect your chances of contracting the disease.

AB Blood Clots More Often

Depending on your blood type, you could have a higher risk of blood clotting or hemorrhage. The American Heart Association reports that AB blood types are more likely to clot. Chances of deep vein thrombosis, or clotting in the leg, raise by 47%. Pulmonary embolism, or clotting near the lungs, raises by 51%.

AB bloods have a protein that slightly increases the risks of clotting. On the other hand, O blood types are more likely to hemorrhage. A Japanese study in Critical Care found that O bloods have a 28% higher risk of hemorrhaging.

In just a few slides we’ll learn how some blood types are associated with higher risk of heart disease.

Blood Can Affect Diabetes Risk

Many people know that diet and exercise habits affect the risk of diabetes. But blood type could also contribute, if only slightly. French researchers from the Gustave Roussy Institute discovered that women with B positive blood have the highest chances of developing diabetes.

According to the journal Diabetologia, people with B-positive blood have a 35% greater risk of diabetes. The percentage changes to 10% with type A blood, 17% with AB blood, and 21% with B-negative blood. People with O type blood have the lowest chance of diabetes. Remember, though, that blood type is not a diabetes-sentence.

Coming soon: why you may need to adjust your diet based on your blood type.

Type A Bloods Are More Prone To Stomach Cancer

Unfortunately, people with type A blood are more likely to get gastric cancer. In 2012, a study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that A-type blood is susceptible to H. pylori. This pathogen creates inflammation and is one of the more prominent risk factors for stomach cancer.

Further research in BMC Cancer asserted that both type A and type AB bloods are prone to gastric cancer. The study suggested that type A genotypes are more prone to H. pylori than O or B blood types.

Stay tuned to learn blood’s effect on mental health..

The Rarest And Most Common Blood Types

Since blood types are genetic, how common they depend on ethnicity. However, the rarest blood type overall is AB-negative. Less than 1% of the American population has AB-negative, while 4% has AB-positive blood.

Worldwide, the most common type of blood type is O-positive. Between 37% and 53% of the population has O-positive blood, depending on the country. O-negative blood, the universal donor, is far rarer. People with O-negative blood make up between 1% and 8% of the overall population. Blood types A and B are somewhere in the middle.

Do you know which type is the universal donor? Read on and learn the answer.

Certain Blood Types May Require Different Diets

Naturopath Peter J. D’Adamo claims that peoples’ diets may rely on their blood types. His theory, called the Blood Type Diet, suggests that certain bloods need to avoid and embrace different foods.

According to D’Adamo, O blood types benefit from a high-protein diet that is light on grains and dairy. A blood types may prefer meat-free diets, and B bloods should avoid many nuts, beans, and grains. AB bloods should focus on seafood and tofu and avoid caffeine. The downside of the Blood Type Diet is that it can be restrictive and inflexible.

Which blood type is associated with anxiety disorders and depression? Read on to find out.

People With AB Blood Are More Likely To Lose Their Memory

AB is the rarest blood type, consisting of only 4% of Americans. However, research from the American Academy of Neurology found that AB blood types have a higher risk of memory problems. In fact, people with AB blood are 82% more likely to experience cognitive decline.

AB blood also raises the risk of heart attack and stroke, closely related to cognitive impairment. Factor VIII, a blood protein that makes blood clot, may also heighten the risk of dementia. However, researchers still need more evidence to determine why AB types suffer from memory loss.

Can your blood type influence fertility? Read on to find out.

Does Blood Type Determine Your Personality?

In Japan and South Korea, many people believe that blood influences your personality, similar to zodiac signs. This is called the blood type personality theory. According to the scientific journal Personality and Individual Differences, research has yet to support this theory, calling studies about it “scanty” and “conflicting.”

People with blood type A are supposedly empathetic and good listeners. B type people are natural leaders, and AB people are independent, rational thinkers. People with the blood type O are practical and motivated. But that’s just an overview; the full theory is far more detailed.

Coming up: how blood type can make you prone to heart disease.

Blood Type May Influence Fertility

In 2010, a study suggested that a woman’s blood type may affect fertility. Researchers from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Yale University measured the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in blood. High FSH levels make it harder to conceive.

Women with type O blood had the most FSH levels, which meant that they often had lower egg count and quality. Women with type AB blood had fewer FSH. In short, O-type blood inhibits fertility, while AB-type blood improves it. Between types A and B, people with type A had better luck with fertility.

O Negative Is The Universal Donor

According to the San Diego Blood Bank, one blood type is a universal donor. O negative only exists in 8% of the population, but it is required for 13% of hospital blood requests. The reason is because O type does not attract antibodies from other blood types.

Lorne Laboratories explains that O negative blood lacks antigens. Usually, antigens prompt the immune system to attack new blood entering the system. Since O negative blood doesn’t get attacked, it is safe to infuse even in newborn babies. This is why the demand for O negative blood is so high.

Negative Blood Types Can Prompt Negative Mental Health

Believe it or not, blood type could influence brain health. In 2015, a study in PLoS One discovered that blood type could raise or lower your risk of mental illness. People with negative blood types have a higher risk of anxiety disorders, antisocial disorders, and attention deficits.

According to scientists from the University of Vermont, people with type O blood were more likely to get depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit disorder (ADD). People with A-type blood have a risk of obsessive-compulsive disorder and ADD. Children with B type have a greater chance of ADD.

AB Blood Is The Universal Recipient

Most blood types can only accept certain types of donated blood. The American Society of Hematology explains that using incompatible blood types can cause allergic reactions, infections, or anemia. But one is the universal recupient: type AB positive.

People with type AB positive blood make up only 3% of the population. They can receive red blood cells from every other blood type. However, people with AB negative blood are universal plasma donors. People who need plasma can obtain it from AB negative, regardless of their blood type.

Blood’s Rh Factor Can Complicate Pregnancy

Rh is a protein in red blood cells, and it determines whether your blood is positive or negative. Rh factors are often inherited. However, a problem arises when the mother has a negative Rh, and the fetus develops a positive Rh. The complication is called Rh incompatibility.

When the mother’s body detects a different blood type, it may create antibodies to attack the fetus. It could cause anemia in the fetus. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, there are treatments for Rh incompatibility that help both the mother and fetus.

Non-O Blood Types Have A Greater Risk Of Heart Disease

According to the American Heart Association, certain blood types have a higher risk of heart conditions. A study in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology said that O bloods have a lower risk, while AB bloods have higher risks. AB types have an 8% greater risk of heart attacks and a 10% increased heart failure chance.

Penn Medicine explains that non-O blood contains a protein called the von Willebrand factor. This slightly raises the risk of clotting and high cholesterol. However, the chances are still slim, and you can remain healthy with a proper diet and exercise routine.

Sugar Determines Your Blood Type

Blood type is determined by antigens, a protein that lies on top of red blood cells. According to the Stanford School of Medicine, antigens are chains of sugar. The sugars they produce are called A sugar, B, sugar, and O sugar. Oddly enough, the actual function of these antigens is not known.

Blood Groups and Red Cell Antigens says that antigens seem to have no purpose. If you remove them from the blood, your health will not suffer. It is possible that these antigens used to have a purpose but stopped operating through evolution.

People With Type O Blood Are Less Prone To Malaria

People with type O blood have greater protection from severe or fatal malaria than other blood types. In 2015, Scandinavian scientists tried to find out why. They believe that type O blood was in countries that eventually developed immunity to malaria, such as Nigeria.

Malaria causes a phenomenon called a rosette. Rosettes form when an infected red blood cell connects with a healthy red blood cell. According to Nature Medicine, O-type blood has antibodies that interfere with rosettes. Malaria cannot infect the body as quickly if you have type O blood.

When it comes to health and longevity, some things like blood type are pre-determined. Yet there are plenty of other aspects of our health and daily habits that can make all the difference. Are your daily habits helping you live longer? Keep going to find out.

People Who’ve Aged Gracefully Have Good Dental Hygiene Habits

We all want a bright, white smile. Not only is this a sign of good oral hygiene, but a mouth full of pearly whites can make you look younger too. People who develop tooth discoloration often don’t have very good dental hygiene habits.

Taking care of your teeth can really make you look years younger. Invest in some whitening toothpaste, floss every day (dentists recommend twice a day) and visit your dentist every six months.

People Who Live Longer Love Their Jobs

You spend a whole lot of your life working. You may even spend more time at work than you do at home. That’s why making sure you enjoy what you do for a living is so important. If you find yourself dreading going to work every single morning, it may be time to switch things up. No paycheck is worth that kind of unhappiness.

Working a job that you love helps reduce stress which in turn helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. More importantly, reducing your stress levels is important to your overall mental wellbeing.

Drink Plenty of Water

Water is like a natural lubricant for your body. It keeps all of your internal organs in working order. If you take one tip away from this list, it should be this one. Drink more water. Even if you think you drink enough water, a little more H2O can only do your body good.

Staying hydrated works wonders for your skin. If you have trouble maintaining a youthful glow, try drinking an extra liter of water per day.

Love Openly and Honestly

People who are guarded when it comes to love often hold a lot of tension in their bodies. If you can’t relax with your partner, who can you relax with? If you’re in a relationship that’s making you feel more stressed than happy, it may be time to rethink what that relationship means to you.

Be open in love, even if it means leaving yourself open for heartbreak. It will be worth it in the long run.

Don’t Pick At Your Skin

It’s tempting to pick at stubborn blemishes on your skin and it’s satisfying to pop a pimple, but if you want your skin to stay in good condition long term, you really leave the pimple popping to the professionals.

Popping pimples with your fingers can lead to broken blood vessels and permanent scarring. Hands tend to be full of bacteria, which can makes its way onto your skin and into your pores if you’re constantly touching your face.

Wear Less Makeup

I love makeup as much as the next girl. It’s fun to experiment with different colors and styles (and sometimes it’s nice to cover a blemish or two), but it really is important to let your skin breathe every now and then. Try wearing a minimal makeup look one day a week, or not wearing any makeup at all on the weekends.

If you can’t kick your foundation habit, at least make sure to wash your face thoroughly before you go to sleep.

Wear Sunscreen

You know they saying, ‘Nothing ages you faster than stress’? Well, there may be one thing that can age you faster than stress. The sun. The sun is a great source of vitamin D and you should spend as much time as you can outside. But the sun also sends powerful UV rays down to earth that can damage our skin and cause us to age prematurely.

Luckily, there’s an easy solution. Just wear ample sunscreen whenever you’re outside. SPF is your best defense against aging.

Maintain Your Social Life

It can be hard to keep in touch with friends in adulthood. Everyone gets so busy with work and kids and general life stuff. It can be even harder to make new friends as an adult. People who age gracefully claim that having friends and widening their network of support has really helped them de-stress and enjoy their adult years.

Who says you can’t be #SquadGoals when you’re 80?

Smile More

A lot of people think that smiling too much can give you smile lines down the road, but smiling is actually the easiest way to look and feel younger. Smile lines are the best lines to have because they mean that you’ve lived a full and happy life.

If smiling is good enough for Kate Middleton, it’s good enough for you too. Also, laughing at least once a day is a great way to de-stress and release tension.

Eat a Plant-Based Diet

Your diet doesn’t have to be entirely plant-based, but a lot of people who have maintained a youthful appearance well into their 60s claim that eating less meat and dairy helps them stay healthier and younger looking.

Not only will your body feel better, but you’ll also reduce your carbon footprint. There are so many delicious meals you can make with fruit and vegetables, or you can just eat them raw.

Practice Mindfulness

Meditation and being mindful of your body and your surroundings are great ways to reduce stress, release built-up tension, and reflect on the tasks you have ahead of you. You can meditate alone or with a group or a leader. You can download meditation apps on your phone or you can just sit quietly and try to empty your mind.

Just a few minutes of mindful meditation a day can really improve your life and make you feel younger.

Appreciate Your Surroundings

Although it doesn’t always feel like it, we live on a beautiful planet. It’s full of plants and flowers and animals and works of art. If you move through life too quickly, you can take all of those beautiful things for granted.

Take a moment each day to appreciate the beauty that the world has to offer, even if it’s just a dandelion on the side of the road or a squirrel storing away nuts for the winter.

Don’t Be Afraid to Express Yourself

Being older doesn’t mean that you have to dress like an old lady or an old man (unless you’re into that kind of style). You don’t have to stop wearing bright colors and fun patterns just because you’re over the age of 30. If bright colors make you happy, wear what makes you happy.

Don’t be afraid to stand out. Remember, you’re only as old as you feel.

Get a Dog

A lot of people who have stayed looking and feeling young well into their 60s and 70s say that owning a dog helped keep them on their toes.

Owning a dog means that you’re forced to go outside for regular walks and you have something to take care of other than yourself. Dogs can also be a source of comfort and can help you feel less stressed. Sure, they can be difficult to train, but all dog owners agree that having a furry companion is the best.

Get Enough Exercise

People who exercise throughout their adulthood have a much easier time looking and feeling younger as the years progress. Find a physical activity that excites you and fits into your schedule.

Whether it’s rock climbing, biking, hiking, or weight lifting, physical activity is great for your body and your mind. It can help you focus more on your work and it can lower your blood pressure and increase your metabolism.

Express Gratitude

It sounds simple, but just saying “thank you” is a great way to actually feel more appreciative of what you have and what other people do for you. Always express gratitude because the expression alone will change the way you feel about what you have and what you are lacking. You’ll find you actually notice what you have more when you are verbally grateful.

This mindset will keep you feeling and looking your best.

Reduce Your Screen Time

Spending too much time in front of a screen can damage your eyes, and spending too much time hunched over a laptop can really damage your back. Bad posture and poor vision can make you feel and look older, so it’s a good idea to limit your time in front of screens.

Of course, screens are everywhere in today’s society and it’s almost impossible to avoid them entirely, but do your best to reduce your screen time, especially right before bed.

Be Charitable

Giving back to others and to your community helps you feel like you’re doing something meaningful with your time and money. It also helps you appreciate the time and money that you have that others might not.

Donate some canned food to a local shelter or spend some time helping a person in need. Doing meaningful work will go a long way to help you feel more centered in your life.

Go Outside

Spend as much time as you can outdoors. If you live in a climate where it’s very cold during the winter months, make sure you take advantage of nice weather when it’s given to you. You can go on a short walk or just sit in the shade, but all of that fresh air can make you feel so much younger and happier.

Eating meals outside is a great way to start introducing more outdoor time into your daily routine.

Eat Less Sugar

Yes, I know sugar is delicious, but when it comes to looking good and feeling good, sugar is one of the worst things for you. Not only can sugar cause weight gain, it can increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

When it comes to your skin, sugar is linked to acne. If you want to look and feel better, reducing your sugar intake is a good place to start. Of course, do indulge in a delicious sugary treat every now and then! Just remember that moderation is key.

In recent years, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has garnered quite the reputation as a “superfood” across the internet. While it’s a common ingredient in salad dressings and a well-kept secret to add flavor to various dishes, the versatility and health benefits of ACV extend far beyond the culinary realm.

Move over, acai berries and quinoa, because apple cider vinegar is here to take the spotlight! It’s not just a flavorful addition to your favorite recipes; it’s a multipurpose elixir that can enhance different aspects of your life. In the kitchen, ACV can be used to elevate flavors, marinate meat, or pickle vegetables, but its utility doesn’t stop there. Beyond its role in nutrition, ACV boasts a range of unexpected uses, as a fantastic natural house cleaner and more!

Soothes Pain From Sunburns

Sunburn is never fun for anyone. Next time you have one, you can feel better faster by relaxing in a bath with apple cider vinegar. Make a cool bath with a cup of ACV, 1/14 of a cup of coconut oil, and a few drops of essential oil to soak your pain away.

Alternatively, you can make a 1:1 solution of ACV and water and dab or spray it onto your sunburn. It doesn’t smell the best, but you’ll feel relief in no time.

Read on to find out what can happen when you drink a teaspoon of ACV every day.

Ousts Weird Smells In Your Home

Apple cider vinegar can also get rid of those strange, elusive odors around your house. Filling small jars or bowls with apple cider vinegar and placing them in smelly rooms will make them smell fresh in no time. You can add herbs or essential oils to customize the scent.

People have also used a 1:1 solution of ACV and water as a natural alternative to aerosol air fresheners and deodorizing sprays.

Helps Ease Cold Symptoms

Apple cider vinegar just might be your saving grace the next time you have a cold. Sooth your sore throat by gargling a diluted solution of ACV and dissolved table salt. This will kill bacteria and help you feel better faster.

You can unclog a stuffy nose by sitting in front of a bowl of hot, steamy water that has ACV in it. The scent and steam will clear up blocked nasal passages caused by a cold, allergies, or sinus infections.

Reduces Heartburn Symptoms

Because apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, it might be useful to people who suffer from acid reflux and heartburn. ACV can increase stomach acid, which in turn will prevent back-flow into the esophagus.

Drinking a couple of tablespoons of ACV mixed with a glass of water before any meal will surely allow you to have a pleasurable dining experience. It also reportedly reduces flatulence and heartburn caused by a spicy meal.

Works As A Natural House Cleaner

Apple cider vinegar works well as a natural alternative to every-day bathroom and kitchen cleaners made with harsh chemicals. Its active cleaning agent is acetic acid, which is safe for most surfaces and kills bacteria on a cellular level.

As well as removing dirt and grime, ACV can effectively kill mold and E. coli when combined with table salt or hydrogen peroxide. Just be sure mix in a gallon of water for every cup of ACV that you use.

Reduced Risk Of Developing Heart Disease

Could apple cider vinegar reduce the risk of developing heart disease? It’s possible. Animal studies have shown that ACV reduces blood triglycerides, cholesterol, and blood pressure, which might be promising for future cases with humans.

The only human evidence so far is reduced risk of heart disease in women who ate salad dressing with ACV. But the fact that ACV also helps combat diabetes is a heart disease risk reduction in itself and is worth a try.

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Apple cider vinegar has scientifically proven in a small study to aid patients with type 2 diabetes and those with high blood sugar. ACV works to improve’s the body’s insulin sensitivity to meals that are high in refined carbs and sugars.

Just a couple spoonfuls of ACV before bedtime can work wonders for you by morning. Just be sure to check with your doctor if incorporating apple cider vinegar in place of blood-sugar-lowering medications will be safe for you.

A day at the beach sometimes comes at the cost of a painful sunburn. Find out how to relieve it with ACV.

Cleanses The Lymphatic System

Some people use apple cider vinegar to detoxify and cleanse their lymph nodes. The acids in raw, unfiltered ACV bind to toxins in the body, helping it get rid of them faster. It also helps break up mucus and flushes out the lymph nodes for better circulation.

ACV also stimulates circulation and aids detoxification in the liver. All of this works to remove toxins and improve the immune system.

Chemical weed killers can be harmful to your health and the environment, but coming up you’ll see how ACV can fix that.

Cleanses Skin And Reduces Blemishes

Apple cider vinegar is the best-kept skincare secret for some people with acne problems. The acetic acid in ACV is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-biotic. Not only can it cleanse skin of dirt and grime, but it can also dry out blemishes and maintain clear skin.

Always be sure to dilute your ACV with water because putting ACV directly on the skin can be harsh. There are plenty of homemade recipes for facial toners that use ACV that can add extra benefits as well!

Kills Pesky Weeds Naturally

Apple cider vinegar is often used in organic gardens as a natural weed killer. The acetic acid is strong enough to kill weeds on contact, making them wither up within a matter of days.

However, some horticulturists say that this isn’t as effective as pulling out the weeds by hand early on. They argue that while ACV kills weeds on contact, it doesn’t necessarily kill the roots.

Next time Fido has an accident in the house, ACV just might be your secret weapon as you’ll soon see…

Relieves Itchy Scalps For Healthier Hair

People with dandruff issues have found an awesome natural remedy in apple cider vinegar. Washing your hair with ACV improves scalp health, while also strengthening your strands and enhancing shine.

Not only is it rich in vitamins, but ACV’s antimicrobial properties also help relieve itchy scalps while its acidity can regulate the hair’s pH levels. After cleansing and conditioning hair, just work a solution of water and ACV into your scalp and hair. After a few minutes, rinse.

There’s a benefit to drinking a little bit of vinegar daily. Read on to learn what it is.

Cleans And Softens Laundry

Apple cider vinegar is a great natural alternative to try on your next laundry day. It can practically replace detergents and fabric softeners that are chock full of harsh chemicals. ACV kills bacteria that builds up in clothes over time, eliminating chemical buildup from synthetic laundry products.

It can also soften your clothes while removing static cling, lint, and pet hair. To try this, simpl add a 1/4 cup of ACV to a full load of laundry.

Help Kill Foot Fungus

Apple cider vinegar has been used by people who suffer from athlete’s foot. The probiotics found in ACV can help to kill off candida yeast that causes fungus to develop on your feet.

You can soak your feet in a small basin of water that has a cup of ACV in it for about an hour. After a few nights of this, your foot fungus will start disappearing. Alternatively, you can make an anti-fungal spray.

Effectively Removes Stains

Apple cider vinegar’s acidity can break up hard stains on many fabrics. Simply apply it to greasy or oily spots in clothes before you throw them in the wash.

ACV has also helped people remove carpet stains. After blotting up as much of the stain as possible with a clean cloth, spray the stain with an ACV solution and blot it again after a few minutes. Repeat the process until the stain is gone!

Ants and gnats are unwanted guests. Coming up, you’ll see how ACV can keep them away.

Eliminates Body Odor For Some People

There are some folks who’ve completely replaced their everyday deodorant with apple cider vinegar! The acidity in ACV, when used regularly for this purpose, can regulate your skin’s pH levels. This reduces the amount of odor-causing bacteria that accumulates on the skin over time.

While this has proven most effective for people who cleanse themselves with ACV from the inside-out, it has also worked for people who apply diluted ACV directly to their skin.

Spray It Around Windows To Deter Bugs From Entering

Help prevent bugs (especially spiders!) from entering your home with this next hack. Combine water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray around the edges of the window frames, both inside the house and out.

It’s this easy to deter bugs from entering your home. And wouldn’t you rather prevent them from going inside, than worry about how to get them out, once they’re in there? All you need is a spray bottle, apple cider vinegar, and add water.

Magically Unclogs Drains

When you have a clogged shower or sink drain, apple cider vinegar just might do the trick. Start by heating up some ACV in a pan on the stove so that it is hot but not boiling. Carefully pour the hot ACV down the drain and let it sit a few minutes before plunging.

You can even add some baking soda into the drain before you add the ACV for extra-strength cleaning power.

Refurbishes Furniture To Look Brand New

Apple cider vinegar can also make your furniture look brand new! You can make a natural furniture polish out of equal parts of ACV and olive oil. A bit of lemon juice can boost this mixture’s cleaning power. Just rub down your furniture with it, then buff it away.

You can even extend ACV’s use to make a natural wood stain. Soaking a piece of steel wool in undiluted ACV for a few days will create a rich brown stain for wood.

Makes A Great Mouthwash

Some people are even brave enough to use apple cider vinegar as a substitute for mouthwash. The taste isn’t for everyone, but ACV has helped people who are sensitive to chemical mouthwashes.

ACV’s antibacterial properties effectively help your mouth achieve that extra-clean feeling, while also eliminating microbes that cause bad breath. Just mix a tablespoon of ACV for every cup of water for a safe rinse. Concentrated ACV has too much acid that will damage your teeth if swished alone.

When Taken Daily, Apple Cider Vinegar Can Work Wonders For The Digestive System

We’ve already learned that apple cider vinegar can help with heartburn symptoms, but its benefits to the digestive system go beyond that. Proper stomach acid levels are vital for both nutrient absorption and for proper digestion.

Well, ACV can help improves your digestive health by upping healthy stomach acid production. Just drink one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in one glass (8 oz) of water once a day, preferably before a meal and you should notice digestive benefits within days.

The Many Benefits Of Acetic Acid

As mentioned earlier, ACV’s active ingredient is acetic acid. We’ve learned that the acid can help with acne and even with housecleaning chores, but it has other benefits as well.

Acetic acid can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, unclog arteries, keep blood sugar levels even, and generally keep your body’s systems all running smoothly. Another added benefit is that drinking it will give you an antimicrobial effect. Pharmaceutical versions of acetic acid are even used to treat ear canal conditions.

If you’re interested in learning about some other beneficial foods, read on for some things you can eat that help your brain function!

Avocados

It’s hard to imagine anyone hating on avocados. These green beauties are nutritional powerhouses that not only taste great but do wonders for your health. Rich in Vitamin K and folate, avocados boost cognitive function by protecting against stroke and improving your concentration and memory.

If you’re worried about the fat content in avocados, you shouldn’t. Avocados have monosaturated fats, which are good for you as they stabilize your blood sugars and do wonders for the skin. That’s not all — not only are they rich in vitamins B and C, avocados have the highest protein and lowest sugar content of any fruit.

Beets

Beets certainly aren’t a favorite for many vegetable-heads out there, but this might change their minds. Beets are naturally packed with nitrates that boost blood flow to the brain, which of course eqls seamless mental function!

This happens because beets are rich in nitrates, which when converted into nitric oxide relaxes and dilates blood vessels. Beets are also rich in Vitamin C, Iron, and Magnesium. They also contain antioxidants that help rid your body of toxins, reducing inflammation and your chances of getting cancer. Gym rats might want to start snacking on beets too since they help boost energy and improve overall athletic performance.

If you really can’t do beets, then you’d be happy to learn which sweet treat you can turn to instead!

Bone Broth

Consuming bone broth is like drinking a multivitamin. It’s packed with over 19 essential and non-essential amino acids, as well as nutrients that support your digestive health. How does this impact your brain exactly?

Proper digestive and immune function will ultimately promote stellar brain health. If your body is functioning properly from the inside, then your brain will also absorb nutrients better while attaining proper blood flow. The amino acids in bone broth will boost immunity and memory. Bone broth is also rich in collagen which is important for your joint health.

Celery

Celery is high in nutrients and low in calories, which makes it the perfect snack to munch on if you want to nourish your body but not gain weight. Celery ensures proper brain function via the numerous ways it aids internal body functions.

The most apparent way that celery achieves healthy brain function is through its anti-inflammatory properties. Celery is packed with antioxidants and polysaccharides that are key nutrients for fighting inflammation. Chronic inflammation is the result of a myriad of health problems such as cancer, heart disease, arthritis, as well as a number of infections.

Dark Chocolate

Chocolate lovers have a reason to rejoice! Dark chocolate is known to support healthy cognitive function through the copious amount of flavonols, which are active antioxidants that combat inflammation and free radicals.

For this reason, dark chocolate promotes healthy blood flow to the brain, reducing the chances of developing dementia or suffering a stroke. Dark chocolate is especially beneficial to senior citizens, whose cognitive function is most at risk. When we say dark chocolate, we’re talking about chocolate that’s at least 70% or higher in cocoa content. Anything lighter is probably not the healthiest choice because they contain other additives.

A certain tea is usually used for insomnia, but that actually has a lot to do with your mental health.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is one of the ultimate brain foods because it contains antioxidants known as polyphenols. Our brains are largely comprised of fatty acids, which makes them essential for performing tasks, regulating mood, and thinking straight.

Luckily, EVOO is chock full of fatty acids while the polyphenols help combat age-related cognitive issues. EVOO also has hormone-balancing, anti-inflammatory effects which help fight mood disorders and depression, which is sometimes a consequence of low-fat diets. If you want to support your brain with EVOO, make sure to find ways to consume it cold, since cooking EVOO takes away most of its benefits.

Egg Yolks

There’s nothing quite like the incredible, edible egg. But health-conscious folk usually just eat the whites, which is actually unnecessary. A lot of people see egg yolks as the unhealthy part of the egg and usually leave it out over high cholesterol concerns. But discarding your yolks might be a mistake!

Egg yolks are essential for cognitive health and here’s why. The yolks are rich with choline, which is a macronutrient that’s essential for brain development, nerve function, and other important bodily functions. Because the choline in egg yolks supports brain development, nutritionists say that pregnant women should start eating the yolks!

Chamomile

Chamomile is a wonderful herb that has been used for nearly 5,000 years to aid a number of health problems. Chamomile contains disease-fighting antioxidants such as terpenoids and flavonoids, which are revered for their natural healing properties.

Chamomile is primarily consumed in tea. Chamomile tea is known to be relaxing and soothing, which makes it the perfect sleep aid. Chamomile helps you get a better sleep, which ultimately helps your cognitive function during the day. Chamomile also serves as a natural remedy for anxiety and depression due to its stress-fighting properties because of the way its scent is carried directly to the brain.

You might want to keep a bag of a certain nut around next time you’re feeling snacky.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are excellent in promoting proper cognitive function, while also combatting depression. Cherry tomatoes and other bright red or orange fruits and veggies like them get their coloring from an organic pigment called a carotenoid.

Carotenoids have been known to boost cognitive function and support memory in the long run. Cherry tomatoes also contain lycopene, which is heavily concentrated within the skin of fruits in the tomato family and the cherry variety contains a lot of lycopene. Lycopene is anti-inflammatory which can prevent inflammation that causes depression. So these little guys can also help boost your mood!

Salmon

You’ve already read that our brains contain a significant amount of fatty acids, so it’s a no-brainer that salmon would help support them. Salmon is rich with omega-3 fatty acids, which serve a multitude of health benefits.

In relation to brain health, the omega-3s in salmon help your brain function in the most efficient way possible and improve memory. This can help prevent ADHD in children and in the long term, can prevent Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Salmon also contains considerable levels of vitamins A and D, which not only act as antidepressants but also prevents age-related damage in the nervous system.

Walnuts

A simple walnut can do wonders for the mind! Like salmon, walnuts are also chock full of omega-3s, as well as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This makes walnuts a superfood that supports memory, thought processing, and combats depression.

Studies have shown that low levels of omega-3s are factors in behavioral and cognitive disorders, such as depression, so walnuts are a perfectly natural way to prevent those from happening. Those same studies proved that those who suffer from mood disorders due to a lack of omega-3s also inevitably suffer from cognitive decline.

Keep reading to see how you can spice up your diet and support your brain!

Turmeric

You may have seen turmeric pop up as a current dietary trend — and for good reason! Turmeric is a spice you’ll want to incorporate into your diet once you discover the multitude of health benefits that it has to offer.

In terms of your cognitive health, turmeric can boost your brain’s oxygen intake, which not only keeps you alert but also helps your process information clearly. This is because turmeric contains a chemical compound called curcumin, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Studies have shown that curcumin is just as effective as Prozac, so the spice can also benefit those suffering from depression.

Spinach

There’s a reason spinach is always on a list of foods to eat for healthy diets. The leafy green is one of the most nutrient-dense foods in existence. Spinach not only can do wonders for the body but imagine what it could do for your mind!

Spinach has been known to slow the aging process, which in turn protects the brain from age-related diseases. Some studies have found that spinach even has the ability to reverse existing damage in the cerebral cortex of those who’ve previously suffered a stroke. Spinach’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have also been known to alleviate the stressors that cause a decline in cognition and motor skills.

Rosemary

Rosemary is an herb that not only dresses up a lot of foods and makes them smell great, but it also can do wonders for brain health. Rosemary contains carnosic acid, which ultimately protects your brain from neurodegeneration.

Carnosic acid helps your braid fight chemical free radicals, which have a hand in causing Alzheimer’s and strokes. Rosemary as an essential oil can also improve your memory. When used in aromatherapy, rosemary essential oil helps people become more alert and improves the quality of your memory. It has also been known to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

The beautiful colors of a certain leafy green are what help prevent Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Kale

Kale is another leafy green that is frequently featured in healthy diets. Kale is great for salads, but it also has its place in a variety of smoothies, shakes, and juices. Kale is rich in vitamins K, A, and C which combined with its other nutrients has excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Pregnant women might also want to amp up their kale intake since it is known to boost infant brain development, especially in the womb. This is because Kale contains a considerable amount of folate, which prevents birth defects and supports proper development of the baby’s face and heart.

Coconut Oil

If you aren’t aware of the multitude of benefits that coconut oil has to offer, then prepare to be enlightened. For brain health, in particular, coconut oil contains a compound called MCT, which stands for medium-chain triglycerides.

When MCT is digested, the liver creates ketones that act as readily accessible energy for your brain. The brain creates its own insulin for power brain cells, but this is not the case for Alzheimer’s patients. Brains afflicted with Alzheimer’s can’t produce their own insulin, so the ketones created by MCT in coconut oil can help repair brain function.

Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a lovely, colorful leafy green that is dense with nutrients. Part of what gives swiss chard its vibrant red color is betalain, which is the nutrient in the plant that helps support a healthy cognitive function.

The high betalain levels in swiss chard offer protection against oxidative stress-related disorders, which is caused by heavy doses of free radicals. This can lead to a myriad of neuro-degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s. Swiss chard also has antioxidants that prevent brain cell mutation and protect from DNA damage.

Next: Hydrogen Peroxide Hacks You’ll Wish You Had Known Sooner

Remove Ink Stains From Clothes

It’s nearly impossible to rub ink out of clothing. At least, it would be if we didn’t have hydrogen peroxide. For light-colored clothing, you can soak a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and dab it on the infected area. Then wash your clothes as normal.

If this doesn’t work, your fabric may need a heavy-duty recipe. Create a solution of 50% hydrogen peroxide and 50% ammonia. The ammonia catalyzes the peroxide to work better. Only use clear ammonia, and don’t use it on wool or silk since the ammonia will eat through the proteins on both fabrics.

Time For Teeth Whitening

According to a 2004 study in the Journal of Dentistry, hydrogen peroxide effectively bleaches teeth. To whiten your teeth, create a solution of 1/2 water and 1/2 hydrogen peroxide. Swish it around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds, or as long as you can stand. Spit the solution out if it hurts your mouth, and don’t swallow it.

The higher the concentration, the brighter the whitening. However, a 2006 study from the same journal reported that higher concentrations could harm the enamel. If you use a higher concentration (25% or 35%), shorten the amount of time that the peroxide is in your mouth.

Help Your Plants Grow Big And Strong

Hydrogen peroxide works by releasing oxygen. Because plants use oxygen to absorb nutrients from the soil, they love this extra oxygen molecule. This promotes healthier, more vigorous plant growth for your garden.

To encourage garden growth, mix one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide per one cup of water. After you pour the mixture into a spray bottle, mist your plants. If you want to cover an entire garden, increase your dosage to 35% hydrogen peroxide. You can also use this to pre-treat seeds. Since peroxide kills fungi, it also wards off potential diseases such as root infections.

Stay tuned for a tip that can save your pet’s life.

It Can Save Your Dog’s Life

Dog owners understand the risk of accidental poisoning. As soon as your dog eats a lot of grapes or chocolate, you’re on the clock. You can safely induce vomiting by feeding your dog a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. The peroxide creates a mild reaction but not extreme enough to cause harm.

To induce vomiting, give your dog 3% hydrogen peroxide (any higher concentration is toxic). Feed your dog one teaspoon per five pounds of their body weight. The vomiting works ten to 15 minutes after eating, and it can last for up to 45 minutes. Afterward, follow up with your vet.

Coming up: Making your meals healthier with hydrogen peroxide

Remove Labels or Glue

It can be difficult and frustrating trying to remove a label or a sticker from a product you purchased. More often than not, the label or sticker will break apart into irritating small bits that take way too much work to get off. Plus you end up getting the label or sticker stuck under your nails, and it makes a big mess.

An easier way to remove labels and stickers is by using hydrogen peroxide. Set the product on a flat surface and spray the label or sticker with hydrogen peroxide. Let it sit. After about 10 minutes, the label should easily come off with a little light scrubbing.

Re-Beautify Your Makeup Brushes

“Through daily use, makeup brushes can accumulate dead skin cells, dirt, oil, pollution, and bacteria, says dermatologist Dr. Debbie Palmer, who co-founded the Dermatology Associates of New York. Dirty makeup brushes can result in staph infections if they aren’t cleaned properly. Fortunately, hydrogen peroxide sufficiently disinfects them.

Add a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide to a bowl of warm water. Soak your brushes in the mixture for ten minutes. Swish the brushes around every now again. Afterward, remove your makeup brushes, rinse them with cold water, and let them air dry. If there’s any remaining residue, you can wash it off with soap.

Wash Your Fruits And Vegetables

It’s essential to wash your fruits and vegetables when you bring them home. You never know who touched them or which pesticides they came into contact with. But instead of paying $8 for a veggie wash, why don’t you use a little bit of hydrogen peroxide?

To create a veggie cleaner, fill your sink with cold water and add 1/4 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide. Don’t use a higher concentration since it’s not food safe. Wash your fruit and vegetables in the mixture, and then rinse them thoroughly with fresh water. According to Poison Control, hydrogen peroxide isn’t toxic, except in large amounts.

Here’s How To Safely Remove Wax From Your Ears

A 2015 study from Australian Family Physician supports ear irrigation as the most effective way to remove ear wax. Ear irrigation involves a liquid that softens the wax and dislodges it. Since hydrogen peroxide makes the wax bubble and weaken, it’s a safe way to clean your ears.

Start by lying on your side. Place a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your upward-facing ear. Wait five minutes, then sit up and use a tissue to absorb any excess liquid. Then do the same on your other ear. Remember to consult your doctor before trying these home remedies.

Disinfect Your Walls, Windows, Mirrors, And Countertops

Hydrogen peroxide is an anti-viral and anti-bacterial. That’s why many household cleaners include this ingredient. If you’re running low on kitchen cleaners, use 3% hydrogen peroxide instead. Store it in a spray bottle and use as you would any other household cleaner.

Although hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant, it takes time to work. You might want to leave the solution on your countertops or walls for a minute before wiping. A mixture of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and plain soap makes an efficient cleaning solution for windows and mirrors.

Hydrogen Peroxide Is A Natural Deodorant

When bacteria breaks down sweat, it creates body odor. Because our armpits sweat more than any other area, they’re the main culprit of body odor. Some people use 3% hydrogen peroxide to kill these germs, and hence halt the B.O.

Hydrogen peroxide is not an antiperspirant, so it won’t inhibit your sweating. But neither do deodorants. Swipe or spray some hydrogen peroxide wherever you’re sweating for odor relief. And it’s certainly cheaper than paying for a deodorant that could contain harmful substances like aluminum.

Reshine Your Rusty Tools

When is the last time you cleaned your gardening shovel, screws, or hammer? Probably never. If your tools begin to rust, it’s time for a scrub. Pour a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide onto the rusted area and rub it with steel wool or a brush. If you need a stronger solution, mix the peroxide with borax.

Before you dive into this DIY, test a small of hydrogen peroxide. H202 may react with some metallic irons, although it shouldn’t affect stainless steel, aluminum, or brass. Double-check what your tools are made of before experimenting.

Bye Bye, Burn Residue

Burn residue can take ages to scrub off. Since burned debris cakes onto the surface of pots and pans, just scrubbing won’t do much. You need a substance that dissolves and lifts the residue. Use hydrogen peroxide to remove the grime without having to scrub.

Pour a generous amount of hydrogen peroxide (3% is fine) to cover all the burned areas. Then stir in a pile of baking soda. Leave it for at least a couple of hours; aim for six hours. The debris should lift right off! Wipe off any sticky remains until your pot or pan looks like new.

You can beautify your hands and feet with these simple hacks…

Lighten Your Hair At Half The Price

Hydrogen peroxide makes up 6% to 10% of most blonde hair dyes. To save money, you can use the liquid chemical to lighten your hair instead of a lengthy routine. Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda, an alkaline chemical that will lower the acidity. Spread the paste through your hair and leave it on from 15 to 60 minutes. Then, rinse your hair with cold water.

While the solution won’t turn your hair bleach blonde, it will lighten the color noticeably. Be careful handling hydrogen peroxide, because it easily irritates the eyes. And if you use too much, it can damage your hair and skin.

Have Discolored Nails? Try This

Fungi can transform your nails into yellowed, cracked fragments of what they used to be. Hydrogen peroxide can kill this fungus quickly and efficiently. In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of hot water with one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide. For extra strength, include one teaspoon of baking soda.

Soak your nails in this solution for about ten minutes. If you don’t want your skin to soften, you can soak a cotton ball in the mixture and press it to your nails. If you need to, scrub stains off with a clean, unused toothbrush or a nail brush.

Soften Those Cracked Heels

Why spend your money on spa foot treatments when you have so many other things to pay for? If you have cracked, rough callouses on the edges of your feet, hydrogen peroxide can soften that skin by breaking down the tissue around it.

Dilute two cups of hydrogen peroxide into two cups of hot water. Soak feet for 30 minutes. After you dry them off, scrub off all the dead skin. Then lather your feet with lotion, pop on some warm fuzzy socks, and hit the hay. Your feet will feel super soft in the morning.

Cleaning your shower just got so much easier…

This Can Alleviate A Painful Canker Sore

Anyone who has had a canker sore knows that it hurts. While hydrogen peroxide can’t make a canker sore disappear, it can speed up the healing. The peroxide kills growing bacteria in your mouth, which may ameliorate some pain.

Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide with water–no more than half and half. Apply the mixture to your canker sore. Either dip a cotton ball in the solution and press it to your sore, or swish the liquid in your mouth. Either way, make sure not to swallow any of the peroxides. Oh, and it might sting a bit.

Protect Your Shower From Mildew

Nobody likes cleaning their shower. That’s why it’s best to clean a shower and shield it from future mold at the same time. Fill a spray bottle with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Spritz the walls of your shower and let it work its magic for 10 minutes. Then, wipe the mildew away.

According to a 2013 study in BMC Research Notes, hydrogen peroxide effectively kills microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria. It also demolishes budding yeast systems, so you won’t have to clean your shower for a while longer.

Stay tuned for a foolproof method of removing harmful mold.

If You Have Carpet Stains, Check This Out

Commercial carpet-cleaning products contain sodium percarbonate, which is a powdered form of hydrogen peroxide. That’s why cleaners often have “Oxy” or “Oxi” in the name. Why don’t you skip the extra charge and use hydrogen peroxide instead?

Before you start pouring, dilute the peroxide. Mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with five parts water. Spray it on the dirty spot and wait for a couple of minutes, and then scrub the stain away. You might want to test it on a small area first.

Kill Mold Without Using Harsh Chemicals

Mold can develop within 24 hours. Leaving it unattended can result in respiratory illnesses; it’s a hazard to those with allergies. While it’s important to kill mold quickly, most people don’t want to spray chemicals everywhere. Here’s a way to eradicate mold without those dangerous cleaners.

Add 3% hydrogen peroxide to a spray bottle. Saturate the mold-infected walls with the solution, and leave it there for ten minutes. Over time, the anti-fungal liquid will destroy the organisms. After ten minutes pass, scrub the area to remove all the stains. Then wipe the surface to dislodge any remaining mold stains.

Here are ways to clean commonly-used objects that people don’t normally clean.

Finally, An Easy Way To Clean Your Retainer Or Mouthguard

That tiny plastic mold that you have to stuff into your mouth every night is hard to keep clean. But you can clean your retainer for little-to-no money by using hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and water.

Place your retainer into a jar and submerge it in water. Add one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and a sprinkle of baking soda. Leave the retainer in there for about ten minutes. Afterward, take it out and rinse all the residue off. Make sure to rinse your retainer thoroughly before popping it back in your mouth.

Here’s How To Clean Your Toothbrushes

Have you ever thought about how many germs gather on your toothbrushes? The reality is that they attract plenty of bacteria, and yet most people never clean their toothbrushes. According to the Children’s Oral Health Institute, hydrogen peroxide is a safe method of disinfecting your child’s toothbrushes.

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a cup, and place your toothbrushes into it bristles-down. Leave the toothbrushes in there until the liquid stops bubbling. Afterward, rinse the toothbrush thoroughly before use. Another method is to swish your toothbrush through a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide before use.

Give Your Dishwasher More Oomph

Dishwashers make everything easier–when they work. If you don’t clean your dishwasher, the extra residue will cake the walls and leave your dishes less than lustrous. Plus, the hydrogen peroxide will lend your dishwasher soap more cleaning power.

Before you run your next load, add 1/4 cup (or three ounces) of 3% hydrogen peroxide to your dishwasher. Close the door and run it. The hot water will swirl it around, and the peroxide will disinfect the surface. That’s all you have to do!

While a lot of meat and dairy products need to be refrigerated to keep from molding or going bad, there are a lot of other foods that don’t necessarily need to be refrigerated, including some that should never be. A refrigerator is a very specific, cool, dark environment that isn’t hospitable for every kind of food item. After reading this article, you might need to make some more space in your pantry.

Keep reading to find out a better place to store your carrots, pineapples, and dark chocolate.

Avocados Do Better On The Counter

If you have some unripe avocados that you want to ripen up, the fridge is definitely not the place for them. The cold air causes avocados to ripen more slowly. Leave your avocados in a cool, dry place, like on your counter in the open air.

But make sure to eat them before they get too ripe. There’s nothing worse than an overripe avocado. If you feel like your avocados are starting to get too ripe, you can pop them in the fridge to slow down that process.

Hot Sauce Likes It Hot

When it comes to any kind of hot sauce, you have to remember that these products have a pretty long shelf life. They’re full of natural preservatives like vinegar and they often don’t contain very many actual fruits or vegetables.

You should store hot sauce away from direct sunlight and keep it in a cool, dry place like a pantry or a cupboard. If you’re a hot sauce fanatic, you might just want to leave it on the table because you know you’re going to use it again with your next meal.

Don’t Put Flour In The Fridge

We haven’t met very many people who store wheat flour in the fridge (I don’t think I’ve met any, actually), but just in case you were thinking about putting flour in the fridge, there is absolutely no reason to do so.

Flour should be stored in a dry place and in an airtight container. You can put it in the fridge if you want, but it’s just going to take up a lot of fridge space.

Keep Bananas Out In The Open

Bananas hold on to their nutrients better when they are kept out of the fridge. Cold temperatures actually slow down the ripening process (as we saw with the avocados). But there is also a lot of moisture in most refrigerators which can cause bananas to turn brown or even black.

If you really want to keep bananas around for a long time, slice them into small pieces and store them in plastic bags in the freezer. Frozen bananas are perfect for smoothies.

Don’t Dry Out Your Bread

Nothing dries out bread faster than leaving it in the refrigerator. At cold temperatures, bread will turn stale, dry, and tasteless. Also, bread acts as a kind of sponge and it will soak up whatever odors are lingering around your fridge.

To be safe, store leftover bread in a breadbox. This closed-off box will keep moisture from escaping from your delicious bread. If you don’t have a breadbox, you can always store your bread in a microwave. Just make sure you don’t accidentally turn it on.

‘Cool As A Cucumber’ Is Just A Saying

Cucumbers do not do well when they’re left in the fridge. They can quickly become waterlogged and lose a lot of their flavor. Instead, store your cucumber on your counter or in a pantry. Just don’t forget that you left it there. You don’t want to find a rotten cucumber in your pantry later on.

If you want your cucumbers to be cool because you want to put them on your eyes or something, then you can leave them in the fridge momentarily or store slices of cucumber in ice water.

Grow Your Own Basil

You shouldn’t store basil cuttings in the fridge. Refrigerators are dark and your basil can’t get any sunlight in there. Basil has been known to wilt in the fridge.

Instead, place any leftover basil in a cup half full of fresh water, and then place that cup by a sunny window. Your basil will last a lot longer, and it may even sprout roots, which means that you can replant it and grow infinite basil.

Aged Cheese Is Cured

This one might seem counterintuitive, but when it comes to aged cheeses, you don’t need to store them in the fridge. We know, cheese is a dairy product, but because the aged ones have been cured, they are shelf-stable.

The curing process for cheeses like gouda, gruyere, and cheddar can take up to six months, and like salami, turns your cheese into a living product, so please treat it with the respect it deserves.

Save The Carrots!

Carrots can actually rot and become waterlogged and droopy if they’re left in the fridge for too long. You should store your carrots away from direct sunlight in a place with low moisture.

If you’re cutting up a bunch of carrots to serve alongside chicken wings or something, you can put them in a container of water and place that in the fridge, but only if you’re going to eat them within a few hours.

Do Not Keep Cereal In The Fridge

The fridge is not a place where cereal belongs. The moisture in there will cause the cereal to wilt and become much less crunchy.

Cereal should always be stored in a cool dry place, like a pantry or a cupboard. Nobody likes soggy cereal. Unless you’re one of those people who like to let your cereal get soggy in the milk before you eat it…

Mustard Can Stay In The Cupboard

Mustard is similar to ketchup in that it can last longer outside of the fridge. In fact, mustard can last even longer than ketchup because it contains a natural acid that acts as a preservative.

Mustard can last way longer than you’d think, in or out of the fridge, but you don’t need to take up fridge space with this condiment. Save room in the fridge for all of those leftover hotdogs.

Keep Apples Out Of The Cold

Apples can last a week or two at room temperature, but they start to get mealy pretty quickly if you keep them in the fridge. Also, apples can cause other fruits to ripen faster because of the natural gas that they emit. You don’t want to trap all of that gas in your fridge with your other perishables.

Enzymes within apples become far more active at room temperature, making the apples way more nutritious.

Chocolate Doesn’t Belong In The Fridge (Sorry)

Many people absolutely love cold chocolate, but the ideal temperature for chocolate is actually between 65 and 68°F, which is much warmer than the average refrigerator.

Only store your chocolate in the fridge if you live in a very warm part of the world and your chocolate is at risk of melting completely. If you really love freezing cold chocolate though, we’re not going to stop you from eating it that way.

Citrus Fruits Belong In The Pantry

Typically, a ripe fruit is a sweet fruit, which means that fruit that’s kept at room temperature will ripen faster and develop more sweetness. Citrus fruit can be rather sour if it’s not given enough time or space to ripen.

Keep fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes out of the fridge. If you absolutely love cold oranges, store them outside of the fridge, but pop them into the fridge an hour or two before you want to eat them.

Don’t Refrigerate Your Leftover Coffee

You can actually keep coffee in the fridge as long as it’s in an airtight container. This goes for both coffee beans and leftover brewed coffee. Generally, coffee beans need to be in a cool dry place, and a fridge is cool, but not very dry.

Brewed coffee can make everything else in your fridge smell like coffee, and if it’s too hot, it can actually raise the temperature of your whole fridge, which is damaging to all of the meat and dairy you have in there.

For Heaven’s Sake, Don’t Refrigerate Tomatoes!

If you take one thing away from this whole article, please do not store tomatoes in the fridge. These delicious, juicy, red fruits thrive in cool, dry, airy environments. Leave them in a bowl on your counter.

If you store tomatoes in the fridge, they’ll quickly lose all of their delicious flavor, texture, and nutrients. Tomatoes stored in the fridge can have a sort of sour taste.

Eggs Aren’t Kept In The Fridge In Some Parts Of The World

In some countries, eggs aren’t kept in the refrigerator in grocery stores or in people’s homes. That’s how it’s done across the pond in the UK. A study recently uncovered there found that it actually makes no difference whether or not you store your eggs in the fridge, so you might as well save yourself some fridge space.

Not so in the US! Please keep in mind that the FDA recommends that eggs be kept in the fridge because they’re usually washed of their protective coating. It’s best to read the full precautionary statement before quitting the fridge on this one.

Most Tropical Fruits Like Tropical Environments

Tropical fruits come from tropical places where it’s warm and rainy and the sun is always shining. You don’t want to take a tropical fruit and put it in a cool, dry fridge. That’s the opposite of what it needs.

Fruit like mangoes, plums, kiwi, apricots, and peaches actually ripen at a slower rate in the fridge and they’ll lose flavor and nutrients faster. Just leave tropical fruit in a bowl out on your table or kitchen counter. They’re so pretty to look at, too. Leave them out for everybody to see.

Keep Garlic Out Of The Fridge

Garlic is another food item that doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge. If you do keep it in the fridge, it can get rubbery and even start to sprout. It can look totally normal, but then when you cut it open, you’ll notice little green sprouts inside.

Leave your garlic in a specialized garlic jar, or even in a pair of breathable nylon pantyhose. You can also peel the garlic and store the peeled cloves in your freezer.

Ketchup Doesn’t Need To Be Stored In The Fridge

Contrary to popular belief, ketchup doesn’t actually need to be stored in the fridge, even after the bottle is open. That’s why all of those diners can just leave glass bottles of Heinz ketchup out on the tables for hours at a time.

This stuff is chock-full of preservatives. As long as you don’t contaminate it, ketchup can last for a really long time. Now you don’t need to worry when you’re slathering it onto your burger.

Oh Honey, Don’t Put Honey In The Fridge

It may seem obvious to you, but you really shouldn’t store honey in the refrigerator. The cold air will cause the honey to crystallize, which isn’t great. If your honey does crystallize, just put the whole jar in a warm water bath to dissolve the crystals.

Honey is a natural preservative, so it doesn’t need to be kept in the fridge or freezer for it to last a long time.

Jam Your Jam Into The Pantry

Jam is packed with preservatives, both natural and artificial, and it’s literally built to last. Keeping it in the fridge won’t make it last any longer.

What will make it last longer is taking care not to contaminate your jam jar. If you’re having jam with any kind of cheese (by the way, fig jam, pictured here, goes wonderfully with brie, and basically every cheese on the planet) don’t use the same knife to spread your jam and cut your cheese. If you get any cheese in your jam jar, that will make it spoil faster.

Melons Don’t Need To Be Refrigerated

There is nothing better than a cool slice of watermelon on a hot summer day, but you really shouldn’t be storing your watermelon in the fridge. When kept at room temperature, melons will keep their natural antioxidant levels balanced.

If you want that delicious cold melon, store the melons at room temp, slice them up about an hour before you’re ready to eat them, put those slices in the fridge, and enjoy an hour later.

Leave Olive Oil In The Pantry

You probably have always stored your olive oil in the pantry, which is definitely where it belongs. The fridge is no place for an expensive bottle of olive oil (the king of all oils, by the way. Coconut oil is getting some good press lately, but olive oil is still the king).

The cool temperatures in your refrigerator will only cause the oil to harden and form something resembling butter. That’s not what anybody wants.

Don’t Put Onions In The Fridge

Just like garlic, onions can actually turn moldy if you leave them in the fridge. Leave onions in a dark, dry area to keep them fresher for longer. You should have a designated onion drawer to keep them separate from your other pantry food items.

If you have some leftover peeled onion, you can store that in the fridge in an airtight container, but make sure to use it within the next few days.

Don’t Cool Your Pears

Pears don’t actually ripen on the tree. They ripen at room temperature on grocery store shelves and in your home. Keep them at room temperature to get that perfect pear taste.

Cold air will only delay the ripening process and make the pears taste stale. Once the pears have reached peak ripeness, then you can put them in the fridge to keep them crisp and delicious for longer. Have you tried making poached pears? Poached pears are delicious.

Pick A Peck Of Pickled Peppers

Peppers definitely don’t need to be kept in the refrigerator. That is a total myth. Refrigerator air will preserve peppers and make them last longer, but it will also cause the peppers to taste more dull and flavorless.

Store pepper in a cool, dry place. Yes, this also applies to chili peppers. If you really love peppers, you can even go swimming with them like the man in the photo above.

Pickles Are Preserved

Pickles are full of natural preservatives like vinegar and salt, so you don’t need to store them in the fridge. They can stay out of the fridge for three years even after they’re opened. If you really like cold pickles, you can leave them in the fridge, but you don’t have to store them in the fridge.

Save the fridge space if you need it. What kind of pickles do you like? Sweet or sour?

Put The Potatoes Away

Potatoes need to be kept in a cool, dry, and dark space at all times. Cold temperatures in your refrigerator will cause the starch in potatoes to turn into sugar faster.

Also, make sure to take your potatoes out of the bag they came in as soon as you get them home. They need space to air out. Too much moisture will cause them to rot. Do you say potato or potah-to?

A Lot Of Salad Dressings Don’t Need To Be In The Fridge

While salad dressings that contain dairy products like ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing do need to be kept in the fridge, many oil-based vinaigrettes can be kept out of the cold.

Neither vinegar nor oil require refrigeration. As we saw with olive oil, some oils can actually harden when kept at cool temperatures. You can even make your own vinaigrette and store that at room temperature as well. Vinaigrette is known to be healthier for you than dairy-based dressings anyway. Note: if your vinaigrette contains garlic or lemon juice it’s best to store it in the fridge (and used within three days).

You Can Leave The Salad Out

You can also leave full salads out of the fridge for extended periods of time as long as that salad doesn’t contain cheese or other dairy products. Mayonnaise-based dressings should also not be left out of the fridge for long periods of time.

You probably don’t want to put dressing on your salad until right before you’re going to eat it anyway, but if you’ve brought a salad to work for lunch and your work fridge is broken or full or something, it’s safe to eat room-temperature salad.

Strawberries Need To Be Stored A Specific Way

Strawberries are tricky when it comes to storing them for later. If you plan to use them within 48 hours, it’s best to leave them on your countertop. If you plan to use them in a few weeks, it’s best to move them to the freezer.

If you do want to put them in the fridge then you should make sure they are in a single layer with the stems on. The stems will prolong their life and by leaving them in one layer, you won’t risk having one bad berry spoil the whole bunch.

Keep Canned Tuna In The Cupboard

There is no reason at all to store canned tuna in the fridge. As long as the can is sealed, this fish can last forever outside of a cold environment. These cans are packed with preservatives.

The same is not true for fresh tuna or even opened cans of tuna though. That fish needs to go in the fridge asap. Basically, anything in a can can stay in the pantry.

Cantaloupe Doesn’t Belong In The Fridge

Look, we all love a chilled melon. We discussed this already back when we were talking about watermelons. But before you put a melon in the fridge, think about how long it’s going to last.

Research proves that refrigeration actually lowers the number of anti-oxidants within a sealed melon. Slice up your cantaloupe, place it in a sealed container, and chill it before serving (but not any earlier). Which melon do you think is better, watermelon or cantaloupe?

Keep Pumpkins In The Basement

Pumpkins are now inseparable from October and Halloween, probably because October is a harvest month and pumpkins are harvested in the fall.

Pumpkins also thrive in cool, dark places. Your basement is a good place for them. Or in cold storage. Or in a pantry. Just not in the fridge. Refrigerators are too moist for pumpkins. Magic can turn a pumpkin into a carriage, but I don’t know if it can revive a pumpkin that’s gone bad from being in the fridge for too long.

Keep Peanut Butter In The Pantry

While it isn’t horrible to keep peanut butter in the fridge, cold refrigerator temperatures can turn your peanut butter rock solid. It’s best to keep this spreadable nut butter in the cupboard or the pantry. Then you can be sure that it will stay spreadable.

If you’re making some kind of peanut butter chocolate concoction, you might want to put peanut butter in the fridge temporarily, but other than that, keep these jars at room temperature.

Keep Your Spices On The Shelf

Dried spices definitely don’t need to be kept in the fridge. If you put powdered spices in the fridge, they can absorb moisture and other odors from your refrigerator.

Spices don’t need to be preserved, they’re already dry. Just keep them away from humidity and store them in tightly sealed containers. Don’t all of these spices look lovely in glass jars displayed on a shelf? Don’t hide them away in the fridge.

Soy Sauce Doesn’t Go In The Fridge

Soy sauce can live just fine in a pantry for up to a year and a half. It doesn’t need to be refrigerated because it’s fermented. The fermentation process both makes the sauce delicious and allows it to stay fresher for longer.

Keeping soy sauce for longer than a year and a half might change the flavor of the sauce a little bit, but it should still be good to eat.

Eggplant Is Sensitive

Eggplant is very sensitive to sunlight. It’s also very sensitive to temperature. This is a finicky vegetable, but it’s also a delicious vegetable, so it’s worth buying and having around.

Keep eggplant separated from other fruits and vegetables. Also, definitely keep it out of the fridge and out of direct sunlight. There are so many ways to cook eggplant. You could grill it, you could bake it, you could make eggplant parmesan…

Pineapple Doesn’t Need To Go In The Fridge

Many tropical fruits ripen long after they’re picked, but once pineapples are harvested, they actually don’t become much riper.

That means that there’s no reason to store your pineapple in the fridge unless you like to eat your pineapple cool. May I suggested chopping up your pineapple and storing it in the freezer so that you can use it to make delicious, frozen piña coladas? You’ll just need some coconut milk, pineapple juice, and rum of your choice.

Papaya Is Best Out Of The Fridge

Putting papaya in the fridge will slow down the fruit’s ripening process, and it could also give it a watery taste. Nobody likes papaya with a watery taste. This fruit needs all of the flavor it can get, so you’re going to want to keep it out of the refrigerator.

When it’s ripe and ready, you can cut it up into small, bite-sized pieces, and enjoy this delicious, though mild, tropical fruit.

Sweet Potatoes Stay In The Potato Drawer

When you put sweet potatoes in the fridge, the structure of their cell walls changes. The cell walls fortify and become hard— even more rigid than they already are.

You really don’t want to be eating hard sweet potatoes. Store these potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place where they can receive good airflow. If they get too moist, they can rot or become moldy. You definitely don’t want to keep them in a plastic bag.

The Fridge Will Make Donuts Stale

Just like with bread, storing donuts in the fridge will only dry them out and make them go stale faster. If you like cold donuts, you won’t have long until they will be cold and dry.

Keep donuts on the counter or only buy as many as you know you will eat in a timely manner. Why buy a dozen if you’re working from home and the only one eating them?

Vinegar Preserves Itself

If foods like pickles and salsas don’t need to be kept in the fridge because of how much vinegar they contain, then it’s only logical you also don’t need to store vinegar in the fridge.

There is so much acid in vinegar that it acts as its own preservative. Once you buy vinegar, you really don’t need to worry too much about it until you need to use it. It’s especially nice for making dressings!

Salami Needs To Breathe

Unless your salami specifically says you need to store it in the fridge, you can save room in it for other things. Salami, by its nature, needs to breathe and doesn’t do well in the cold. This is because it’s a living product, so storing it in your fridge would suffocate it.

It’s no wonder that hikers love grabbing sticks of salami to snack on while they walk for miles at a time.

Keep Olives Out Of The Sun And They’re Okay

Because olives are brined, they don’t need to be kept in the fridge. There’s just one caveat. Unless you bought canned olives, you will want to keep them out of the sun. And even with the canned variety, it’s better safe than sorry.

In a jar or can, as long as the olives are sitting in their brine, you can save room in your fridge for other less time friendly products.

Beef Jerky Is Another Cured Wonder Food

Beef jerky isn’t sold in the cold section of your local grocery store, so why would you assume it needs to be stored in the fridge? Right, because it’s still a meat product.

Jerky, like salami, is cured, and can survive outside of the fridge. The tasty product has also had the moisture draw out of it, helping it “survive” at normal temperatures. Fun fact: The art of jerky making traces all the way back to ancient Egypt.

Who Puts Potato Chips In The Fridge?

We can’t imagine any situation where a person would consider storing potato chips in the fridge. It’s one of the most shelf-stable foods you can, so why would you even consider it?

Deep-fried in oil, most chips potato chips have a high enough salt and vinegar content that they are safe to eat, even after you open the bag. Of course, you’ll still want to eat them all before they go stale!

Crackers Will Go Stale Faster In The Fridge

Another product that seems shelf-stable, but some people swear by storing in the fridge, is crackers. Once you open the box and start snacking, you don’t need to keep them chilled.

The reason some people keep crackers in the fridge is that they think it will keep them fresher longer. The truth is that crackers stay fresher long on the counter, not in the cold. They act very similar to bread in this regard.

Nuts Will Lose Their Flavor

There is nothing inherently wrong with keeping nuts in the fridge. The generally shelf-stable will even keep fresh a little longer in a cooler temperature. There’s just one major problem.

When you store nuts in the fridge, even if your intentions are good, the result won’t be. Storing nuts in colder temperatures will cause them to lose their flavor. Your best bet to keep nuts flavorful as long as possible is to keep them in an airtight container in your pantry.

Hydrogen peroxide is a household staple that many of us remember from our childhood as that stinging, bubbling liquid our parents would apply to our cuts and scrapes. However, this versatile solution goes far beyond being just a minor wound remedy. Hydrogen peroxide is a remarkable compound that serves as a potent bleaching agent, an effective antibacterial, and a versatile antiseptic, with an array of untapped potential uses around your home.

In essence, hydrogen peroxide is a versatile solution that can become your go-to household ally, streamlining your cleaning routines and expanding your personal care possibilities. When used thoughtfully and in accordance with the recommended guidelines, it can become a valuable part of your daily life, providing a range of effective solutions for common challenges.

Worried About Germs This Flu Season? Disinfect Bathroom And Kitchen Surfaces

Hydrogen peroxide is an anti-viral and anti-bacterial. That’s why many household cleaners include this ingredient. If you’re running low on kitchen cleaners, use 3% hydrogen peroxide instead. Store it in a spray bottle and use as you would any other household cleaner.

Although hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant, it takes time to work. You might want to leave the solution on your countertops or walls for a minute before wiping. A mixture of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and plain soap makes an efficient cleaning solution for windows and mirrors.

If you’ve ever had to throw away a favorite item of clothing because of a stain, you’ll want to read on.

Remove Ink Stains From Clothes

It’s nearly impossible to rub ink out of clothing. At least, it would be if we didn’t have hydrogen peroxide. For light-colored clothing, you can soak a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and dab it on the infected area. Then wash your clothes as normal.

If this doesn’t work, your fabric may need a heavy-duty recipe. Create a solution of 50% hydrogen peroxide and 50% ammonia. The ammonia catalyzes the peroxide to work better. Only use clear ammonia, and don’t use it on wool or silk since the ammonia will eat through the proteins on both fabrics.

Next, you might start using fewer Q-Tips with this hack.

You Can Safely Remove Wax From Your Ears Using Peroxide

A 2015 study from Australian Family Physician supports ear irrigation as the most effective way to remove ear wax. Ear irrigation involves a liquid that softens the wax and dislodges it. Since hydrogen peroxide makes the wax bubble and weaken, it’s a safe way to clean your ears.

Start by lying on your side. Place a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your upward-facing ear. Wait five minutes, then sit up and use a tissue to absorb any excess liquid. Then do the same on your other ear. Remember to consult your doctor before trying these home remedies.

Do you have burned residue on your pots? Read on to learn how you can get rid of those.

Sometimes The Air Needs Cleaning, Too

Clean air can improve your quality of life. Well, you can combine hydrogen peroxide and a humidifier to reduce the germs floating through your home.

You’ll want to dilute your 3% hydrogen peroxide a lot. Mix one part of peroxide with eight parts of water, and add the mixture to your humidifier. If you have a diffuser, you can add some drops of essential oils for a pleasant smell. Then let the machine work its magic. Don’t use this technique if you have pets around.

Reshine Your Rusty Tools

When is the last time you cleaned your gardening shovel, screws, or hammer? Probably never. If your tools begin to rust, it’s time for a scrub. Pour a small amount of 3% hydrogen peroxide onto the rusted area and rub it with steel wool or a brush.

Before you dive into this DIY, test a small of hydrogen peroxide. H202 may react with some metallic irons, although it shouldn’t affect stainless steel, aluminum, or brass. Double-check what your tools are made of before experimenting.

Use hydrogen peroxide to help with a common plumbing problem, just ahead.

Bye Bye, Burn Residue

Burn residue can take ages to scrub off. Since burned debris cakes onto the surface of pots and pans, just scrubbing won’t do much. You need a substance that dissolves and lifts the residue. Use hydrogen peroxide to remove the grime without having to scrub.

Pour a generous amount of hydrogen peroxide (3% is fine) to cover all the burned areas. Then stir in a pile of baking soda. Leave it for at least a couple of hours; aim for six hours. The debris should lift right off! Wipe off any sticky remains until your pot or pan looks like new.

You can even use hydrogen peroxide in the garden, as we’ll see soon.

Have Discolored Nails? Try This

Fungi can transform your nails into yellowed, cracked fragments of what they used to be. Hydrogen peroxide can kill this fungus quickly and efficiently. In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of hot water with one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide. For extra strength, include one teaspoon of baking soda.

Soak your nails in this solution for about ten minutes. If you don’t want your skin to soften, you can soak a cotton ball in the mixture and press it to your nails. If you need to, scrub stains off with a clean, unused toothbrush or a nail brush.

Hydrogen Peroxide Is A Natural Deodorant

When bacteria breaks down sweat, it creates body odor. Because our armpits sweat more than any other area, they’re the main culprit of body odor. Some people use 3% hydrogen peroxide to kill these germs, and hence halt the B.O.

Hydrogen peroxide is not an antiperspirant, so it won’t inhibit your sweating. But neither do deodorants. Swipe or spray some hydrogen peroxide wherever you’re sweating for odor relief. And it’s certainly cheaper than paying for a deodorant that could contain harmful substances like aluminum.

Help Your Plants Grow Big And Strong

Hydrogen peroxide works by releasing oxygen. Because plants use oxygen to absorb nutrients from the soil, they love this extra oxygen molecule. This promotes healthier, more vigorous plant growth for your garden.

To encourage garden growth, mix one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide per one cup of water. After you pour the mixture into a spray bottle, mist your plants. If you want to cover an entire garden, increase your dosage to 35% hydrogen peroxide. You can also use this to pre-treat seeds. Since peroxide kills fungi, it also wards off potential diseases such as root infections.

Next: how to use hydrogen peroxide to clean fruits and veggies.

Wash Your Fruits And Vegetables

It’s essential to wash your fruits and vegetables when you bring them home. You never know who touched them or which pesticides they came into contact with. But instead of paying $8 for a veggie wash, why don’t you use a little bit of hydrogen peroxide?

To create a veggie cleaner, fill your sink with cold water and add 1/4 cup of 3% food-grade hydrogen peroxide. Wash your fruit and vegetables in the mixture, and then rinse them thoroughly with fresh water. According to Poison Control, hydrogen peroxide isn’t toxic, except in large amounts.

An unexpected beauty tip is next!

Soften Those Cracked Heels

Why spend your money on spa foot treatments when you have so many other things to pay for? If you have cracked, rough callouses on the edges of your feet, hydrogen peroxide can soften that skin by breaking down the tissue around it.

Dilute two cups of hydrogen peroxide into two cups of hot water. Soak feet for 30 minutes. After you dry them off, scrub off all the dead skin. Then lather your feet with lotion, pop on some warm fuzzy socks, and hit the hay. Your feet will feel super soft in the morning.

Mix Hydrogen Peroxide With Borax For An Even Deeper Rust Clean

We already told you that scrubbing 3% hydrogen peroxide with steel wool will help remove rust from old metal tools. If even that doesn’t do the trick, try mixing 3% hydrogen peroxide with borax and dish soap for an even deeper clean.

Combine 1/4 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of regular dish soap, and a scoop of borax to make a solution that will pre-cleanse the rusted surface. Cover the rusted surface entirely and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then you can srub the rust away as normal.

Remove Labels Or Glue

It can be difficult and frustrating trying to remove a label or a sticker from a product you purchased. More often than not, the label or sticker will break apart into irritating small bits that take way too much work to get off. Plus you end up getting the label or sticker stuck under your nails, and it makes a big mess.

An easier way to remove labels and stickers is by using hydrogen peroxide. Set the product on a flat surface and spray the label or sticker with hydrogen peroxide. Let it sit. After about 10 minutes, the label should easily come off with a little light scrubbing.

This Can Alleviate A Painful Canker Sore

Anyone who has had a canker sore knows that it hurts. While hydrogen peroxide can’t make a canker sore disappear, it can speed up the healing. The peroxide kills growing bacteria in your mouth, which may ameliorate some pain.

Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide with water–no more than half and half. Apply the mixture to your canker sore. Either dip a cotton ball in the solution and press it to your sore, or swish the liquid in your mouth. Either way, make sure not to swallow any of the peroxide. Oh, and it might sting a bit.

There’s no need to call a plumber if you know this hack that’s coming up soon.

Here’s How To Clean Your Toothbrushes

Have you ever thought about how many germs gather on your toothbrushes? The reality is that they attract plenty of bacteria, and yet most people never clean their toothbrushes. According to the Children’s Oral Health Institute, hydrogen peroxide is a safe method of disinfecting your child’s toothbrushes.

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a cup, and place your toothbrushes into it bristles-down. Leave the toothbrushes in there until the liquid stops bubbling. Afterward, rinse the toothbrush thoroughly before use. Another method is to swish your toothbrush through a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide before use.

If You Have Carpet Stains, Check This Out

Commercial carpet-cleaning products contain sodium percarbonate, which is a powdered form of hydrogen peroxide. That’s why cleaners often have “Oxy” or “Oxi” in the name. Why don’t you skip the extra charge and use hydrogen peroxide instead?

Before you start pouring, dilute the peroxide. Mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with five parts water. Spray it on the dirty spot and wait for a couple of minutes, and then scrub the stain away. You might want to test it on a small area first.

Time For Teeth Whitening

According to a 2004 study in the Journal of Dentistry, hydrogen peroxide effectively bleaches teeth. To whiten your teeth, create a solution of 1/2 water and 1/2 hydrogen peroxide. Swish it around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds, or as long as you can stand. Spit the solution out if it hurts your mouth, and don’t swallow it.

The higher the concentration, the brighter the whitening. However, a 2006 study from the same journal reported that higher concentrations could harm the enamel. If you use a higher concentration (25% or 35%), shorten the amount of time that the peroxide is in your mouth.

Give Your Dishwasher More Oomph

Dishwashers make everything easier–when they work. If you don’t clean your dishwasher, the extra residue will cake the walls and leave your dishes less than lustrous. Plus, the hydrogen peroxide will lend your dishwasher soap more cleaning power.

Before you run your next load, add 1/4 cup (or three ounces) of 3% hydrogen peroxide to your dishwasher. Close the door and run it. The hot water will swirl it around, and the peroxide will disinfect the surface. That’s all you have to do!

Lighten Your Hair At Half The Price

Hydrogen peroxide makes up 6% to 10% of most blonde hair dyes. To save money, you can use the liquid chemical to lighten your hair instead of a lengthy routine. Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda, an alkaline chemical that will lower the acidity. Spread the paste through your hair and leave it on from 15 to 60 minutes. Then, rinse your hair with cold water.

While the solution won’t turn your hair bleach blonde, it will lighten the color noticeably. Be careful handling hydrogen peroxide, because it easily irritates the eyes. And if you use too much, it can damage your hair and skin.

Help Unclog Your Drain

If your sink drain keeps clogging, hydrogen peroxide may be able to help! Try pouring one cup of hydrogen peroxide down the drain and let it sit for an hour. After an hour has passed, run several hot cups of water down the drain to encourage the gunk to pass through.

For best results, repeat the process every two weeks to keep your drain from clogging up again. It’s always handy to keep a bottle of hydrogen peroxide under the sink!

Cleaning your shower just got so much easier with this next trick.

Protect Your Shower From Mildew

Nobody likes cleaning their shower. That’s why it’s best to clean a shower and shield it from future mold at the same time. Fill a spray bottle with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Spritz the walls of your shower and let it work its magic for 10 minutes. Then, wipe the mildew away.

According to a 2013 study in BMC Research Notes, hydrogen peroxide effectively kills microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria. It also demolishes budding yeast systems, so you won’t have to clean your shower for a while longer.

Stay tuned for a foolproof method of removing harmful mold.

It Can Save Your Dog’s Life

Dog owners understand the risk of accidental poisoning. As soon as your dog eats a lot of grapes or chocolate, you’re on the clock. You can safely induce vomiting by feeding your dog a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. The peroxide creates a mild reaction but not extreme enough to cause harm.

To induce vomiting, give your dog 3% hydrogen peroxide (any higher concentration is toxic). Feed your dog one teaspoon per five pounds of their body weight. The vomiting works ten to 15 minutes after eating, and it can last for up to 45 minutes. Afterward, follow up with your vet.

Kill Mold Without Using Harsh Chemicals

Mold can develop within 24 hours. Leaving it unattended can result in respiratory illnesses; it’s a hazard to those with allergies. While it’s important to kill mold quickly, most people don’t want to spray chemicals everywhere. Here’s a way to eradicate mold without those dangerous cleaners.

Add 3% hydrogen peroxide to a spray bottle. Saturate the mold-infected walls with the solution, and leave it there for ten minutes. Over time, the anti-fungal liquid will destroy the organisms. After ten minutes pass, scrub the area to remove all the stains. Then wipe the surface to dislodge any remaining mold stains.

Read on to learn some ways to clean commonly-used objects that people don’t normally clean.

Finally, An Easy Way To Clean Your Retainer Or Mouthguard

That tiny plastic mold that you have to stuff into your mouth every night is hard to keep clean. But you can clean your retainer for little-to-no money by using hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and water.

Place your retainer into a jar and submerge it in water. Add one tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and a sprinkle of baking soda. Leave the retainer in there for about ten minutes. Afterward, take it out and rinse all the residue off. Make sure to rinse your retainer thoroughly before popping it back in your mouth.

Your Humidifier Needs Cleaning, Too

When’s the last time you cleaned your humidifier or diffuser? Bacteria adore wet, warm places. Humidifiers remain damp for a long time. Plus, standing water allows bacteria to multiply. Dirty humidifiers can trigger allergy symptoms rather than help them.

To clean a humidifier or diffuser, add two cups of 3% hydrogen peroxide to one gallon of water. Pour it into the humidifier’s water tank and filter, scrub it, and let it sit for 10 to 30 minutes. Then rinse the base in clean water and leave it to air dry.

Re-Beautify Your Makeup Brushes

“Through daily use, makeup brushes can accumulate dead skin cells, dirt, oil, pollution, and bacteria, says dermatologist Dr. Debbie Palmer, who co-founded the Dermatology Associates of New York. Dirty makeup brushes can result in staph infections if they aren’t cleaned properly. Fortunately, hydrogen peroxide sufficiently disinfects them.

Add a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide to a bowl of warm water. Soak your brushes in the mixture for ten minutes. Swish the brushes around every now again. Afterward, remove your makeup brushes, rinse them with cold water, and let them air dry. If there’s any remaining residue, you can wash it off with soap.

Treat Acne Spots

Hydrogen peroxide works as a spot treatment for acne. When the peroxide touches your skin, it loses an extra oxygen atom. That oxidization process kills off the bacteria, which allows your skin to heal faster. Don’t use it for acne scars, as overuse can damage your skin further.

To spot-treat your acne, saturate a cotton ball with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Dab the cotton ball over the infected areas, leave for five minutes, and then rinse your face with cold water. Limit your use to three times a week, and make sure to wash your face before applying hydrogen peroxide.

Beat That Bad Breath

Hydrogen peroxide not only whitens your teeth, but it also eliminates bad breath. Gargling hydrogen peroxide kills the bacteria in your throat, so it can also assuage sore throats and gum inflammation. Before you pour it straight into your mouth, dilute the peroxide in water.

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into water: one part peroxide per two parts water. This will lower the concentration to 1% hydrogen peroxide. Gargle and swish the solution around your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds and then spit it out. Do not swallow. Rinse your mouth afterward, and you’re ready to go!

Coming up: Making your meals healthier with hydrogen peroxide

Clear Your Contact Lenses

If you don’t clean your contact lenses, you run the risk of spreading an eye infection. Instead of buying a solution, you can clear your lenses with hydrogen peroxide. This technique may help people who are sensitive to the preservatives used in contact solutions. To prevent hydrogen peroxide from stinging your eyes, you’ll need a neutralizer as well.

To clean your contact lenses, you can place them in 3% hydrogen peroxide for a little while. Afterward, leave them in a neutralizer for a couple of hours. Usually, the directions on the bottle will tell you exactly how long to leave them in.

Disinfect Your Sponges

When your sponge starts smelling, it’s time to clean it. You don’t have to throw your sponge away every time it smells germ-infested. Hydrogen peroxide will soak into the sponge and kill all bacteria inside the tiniest crevices.

To start, place your sponge in a container. Pour hydrogen peroxide until the sponge is mostly submerged, and watch for the white bubbles. That means the bacteria is dying. After a few minutes, flip the sponge over and leave it for a few more minutes. Then take out the sponge and rinse it. You’re done!

Safely De-Germ Your Children’s Toys

If you’re worried about chemical cleaners, you’ll want to keep hydrogen peroxide in mind. It’s a great tool to use on kids’ toys since it doesn’t leave harmful residue. A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water can easily disinfect plastic toys.

First, wipe off visible dirt. Remove any batteries if the toy has them. Then, create a solution that’s half water and half 3% hydrogen peroxide. (If you use all peroxide, it may strip the paint off.) You can either place the toy in a bowl of the mixture, or you can soak a towel and rub the toy.

The Perfect Cooler And Lunchbox Solution

According to a study from e-cloth, 73% of lunchboxes and coolers have bacteria that could cause food poisoning. Protect your family from this bacteria by cleaning these cases regularly. What better way to clean them than with hydrogen peroxide?

To start, remove all the food debris with soap and water. Then, fill your cooler or lunchbox with hydrogen peroxide. If you need more liquid, combine the hydrogen peroxide with water, but know that it’ll have less strength. Leave it for ten minutes, and then rinse your containers.

Get Your Cutting Board Food-Ready

If you think about it, cutting boards touch our food as often (if not more often) as our plates do. As your cutting board touches raw vegetables and meat, it’ll accumulate bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. Just washing the cutting board isn’t enough; you’ll want to disinfect it too.

After you clear your cutting board of food and water, rinse it thoroughly. Fill a container–large, glass baking pans should work–with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Leave your cutting board in there for ten minutes. Once you remove it, rinse it thoroughly, and look forward to your next meal.

Is It Time To Do Your Roots?

Anyone who has dyed their hair blonde understands the struggle of having your roots grow in. It’s awkward to see a dark line of hair touch your blonde locks. If you don’t want to use hydrogen peroxide to lighten your hair, why not use it to make your roots look better?

Dab some 3% hydrogen peroxide onto your roots, and let it sit for half and hour. Then wash it out. If you want it to appear more blonde, do it again. And if your head begins to sting, rinse your hair earlier.

Get Your Shower Grout Shining

Cleaning bathrooms can be a dirty job, right? All of the moisture in the room and build-up from products in the shower and sinks can require a lot of elbow grease to clean. Luckily, hydrogen peroxide is also helpful with cleaning the shower grout.

Combine hydrogen peroxide with a little water and some lemon. Spray on the grout and give it some time to sit and work its magic. After, scrub into the grout. It will still take some work, but will make the job much easier!

Pour Some Into Your Bath For A Detox

You’ve probably never heard of this hydrogen peroxide hack before! Surprisingly, the product can help kill germs and bacteria on your body, which will help prevent and fight off illness. (Try it this winter!)

Once you get your warm bath running, add some hydrogen peroxide and soak for 30 minutes. Afterward, you’ll want to shower to rinse it off your skin. This is a cheap and easy hack for helping prevent illness if you’ve been in a germy environment like a kids’ arcade or ball pit.

A Few Drops Can Help Prevent Ear Infections

Some kids and adults are more prone to ear infections than the average person. According to MedlinePlus, ear infections are the most common reason that parents bring their kids into the doctor, and three out of four children will have at least one ear infection by the time they reach three years old.

Reduce the risk of an ear infection by adding a couple of drops of hydrogen peroxide to a q-tip, and cleaning out the ears. There are more harmful bacteria in our ears than we think, and this little step goes a long way.

Get Rid Of Dead Skin Cells On Towels

Bathroom towels often become one of the dirtiest things that we have to clean. Sometimes, good ole detergent and hot water just don’t do the trick– towels can collect loads of dead skin cells!

Luckily, you can get rid of dead skin cells on your bathroom towels with yep — you guessed it — hydrogen peroxide. Not every time, but every so often, add ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide to your wash load of towels. Add another ½ of vinegar, too! It will get your towels next-level clean.

Hydrogen Peroxide Gets Rid Of Blood Stains

“He’s bleeding! Grab a towel!” is not something that you ever want to hear in your household, but these things happen. And you know you’ll grab whatever’s within reach to stop the bleeding when you have to. Luckily, there’s a hack for that.

If you have a blood-stained towel, add some hydrogen peroxide to the affected area, and let it sit. Then, rinse under warm water with soap. Repeat if it doesn’t come out the first time, but it should make a big difference!

Get Rid Of Foot Odor In Shoes

No one wants to buy a different product for every purpose, which makes hydrogen peroxide all the more beneficial. Sure, you could find a product at the store specifically for getting rid of foot odor in shoes, but why would you when you have a bottle of hydrogen peroxide at home?

Mix it with baking soda to create a paste. Then, put it in your shoes and set them out to dry. Once dried, removed the residue with a cloth. It’ll help a lot!

Clean Your Toilet Bowl

Once again, hydrogen peroxide is the magic cleaning ingredient that you need in the bathroom! While you’re waiting for it to set on the grout in the shower, spray some hydrogen peroxide into your toilet bowl to get a good clean.

Mix it with ½ cup of baking soda and ¼ cup of castile soap. Throw in some warm water, too. This hack is great for saving money, or if you run out of toilet bowl cleaner and have some last-minute guests arriving.

Clean a Wound

Hydrogen peroxide also acts as a quick agent for cleaning a cut or wound. This is most likely one of the most common uses for the product, but if you don’t already know about it, it’s worth mentioning!

This hack is another that saves money, if you were to go to the store and select various different products for antibacterial and disinfectant purposes. Apply the hydrogen peroxide to minor wounds to clean away dead tissue, stop minor bleeding, and clean the area to prevent infection.

Brighten Your Curtains And Tablecloths

Have your curtains yellowed over time? It happens. Check the bottom of your curtains for discoloration; if it’s messy, grab your bottle of hydrogen peroxide. Soak the yellowed part of your curtains in 3% hydrogen peroxide for five to ten minutes, and then throw them in the wash.

You can use the same method to remove stains from tablecloths. Soak the stained spots in hydrogen peroxide for a while. If food has caked onto the cloth, use a damp rag or sponge to scrub it off after the soak. Then run it through the wash.

Apply Hydrogen Peroxide To Bug Bites

Insect bites can quickly become itchy and irritate your skin. Making matters worse, if you scratch at the bites you can possibly cause a more severe infection. Applying hydrogen peroxide to your bug bites can help accelerate the healing process while reducing itchiness at the same time.

People who swear by this method say to reduce swelling and itchiness by simply swabbing your bug bites with a cotton ball soaked in hydrogen peroxide. There is one caveat to this method; you need to hit the bites as quickly as possible in order for the hydrogen peroxide to be fully effective.

Prevent And Get Rid Of Swimmer’s Ear

The Cleveland Clinic says using a 3-percent hydrogen peroxide solution can help prevent swimmer’s ear. The infection, called otitis externa, occurs when water lingers in the ear canal. We’ve already talked about how hydrogen peroxide can clean out ear wax but the product is also a preventative step a swimmer can take.

Use half an ear dropper full of the solution and let it bubble and fizz while your head is on its side. After a few minutes, perform the same process on the other ear. The Cleveland Clinic says to avoid drying the ear with a cotton swab or piece of cloth as it can cause tears to the delicate ear canal; instead, dry the area with a hairdryer to remove unwanted moisture.

Rid Yourself Of Athlete’s Foot With Hydrogen Peroxide

Dr. Elizabeth Auger, a foot and ankle specialist, recommends using hydrogen peroxide to rid yourself of athlete’s foot. Known as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection between and around the toes.

You’ll need to mix a pint of hydrogen peroxide with one gallon of warm water. To help fix the issue, dunk your feet in the solution. Allow your feet to soak for 30 minutes. Just keep in mind, cracks and cuts on your feet may sting when you first submerge them in the hydrogen peroxide mixture.

Revive Your Reusable Shopping Bags

Reusable shopping bags are a great way to go green. You get to help the environment and let’s be honest, these bags tend not to break open like paper or plastic bags, ensuring your groceries and other items remain in good shape.

While reusable shopping bags are the way to go, they can often become smelly over time and they don’t do great in the washer and dryer. If you want to revive your reusable shopping bags just spray them down with a quick spritz of hydrogen peroxide. A lot of people swear by this hydrogen peroxide hack.

Ditch Chlorine In Your Pool For Hydrogen Peroxide

This tip comes courtesy of the team at SF Gate who offer a less eye-irritating solution to pool cleaning. That’s right, you can replace chlorine, which has been shown to cause lung and other issues, with hydrogen peroxide.

You can “shock” your pool, according to SFGate, by adding a “35 percent concentrated food-grade hydrogen peroxide at a ratio of one cup to 250 gallons of water in your pool.” Immediately after you pour in the solution, start your pool’s pump just long enough to circulate the mixture. Next, turn off the pump and let the solution sit for a full 24 hours before swimming.

Sinus Infection? Try Hydrogen Peroxide

If you suffer from regular but minor sinus infections, a simple hydrogen peroxide treatment could help sold your woes. Simply mix one tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide with one cup of non-chlorinated water. The solution you’ve created can be used as a nasal spray when treating septic sinuses.

Various studies have shown this method to work; however, for more serious sinus attacks you should schedule a doctor’s visit as they will likely refer you to an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat) specialist.

Preserve A Salad For A Little Longer

You can use food-grade hydrogen peroxide to keep your salad greens fresh for longer than usual. If you’re sick and tired of lettuce, kale, spinach, and other greens shriveling up overnight, try this hack. Combine half a cup of water with one tablespoon of 3% food-grade hydrogen peroxide and spray the solution on your salad greens before adding any type of dressing.

Store your greens in the fridge and make sure they are covered for the best results. The product does a great job of killing bacteria and micro-organisms. Don’t overdo it with the hydrogen peroxide and, again, make sure it’s food grade.

Toothpaste is a ubiquitous household dental hygiene product that, ideally, everyone incorporates into their daily routine. This humble tube of paste can prove to be an unexpected hero in various scenarios, from tackling home improvement projects like filling small nail holes to remedying some common household predicaments such as cleaning stains on furniture or shining silverware.

So, it’s time to broaden your perspective and explore the myriad unconventional uses for toothpaste that often remain hidden from the common knowledge. Embracing these inventive applications can not only make your daily life more efficient but also reveal the true multi-purpose potential of this familiar product. Whether you’re striving for a gleaming smile or seeking innovative solutions around the house, toothpaste is a surprisingly handy ally.

Make Those Old Sneakers Look Like New!

Unfortunately, shoes get dirty, and there’s really not anything you can do to prevent it. Especially if they have white soles, it’s only a matter of time before they start getting dirty the more you wear them. Luckily, toothpaste can be used to not only clean off scuffs and dirt but brighten the sole of the show.

All you have to do is apply some toothpaste onto an old toothbrush and scrub the sole to loosen the dirt. Then, wipe the toothpaste away with a damp cloth to see the noticeable difference!

Brighten Your Fingernails!

Sometimes, our fingernails aren’t always looking their best. They’re constantly being used, which can lead them to become slightly discolored. Nobody wants their hands to look dirty, although fingernails aren’t always the easiest thing to clean without professional help.

Well, if your fingernails happen to look a little discolored, reach for some whitening toothpaste! Apply a dab onto the fingernail and rub it in using a nail or toothbrush. Was your hands and repeat the process until satisfied.

Shine Your Silver!

Unless you always keep your silver jewelry or other items locked away, they’re going to get dirty over time and lose their shine. Instead of going and spending money to have your silver items buffed by a jeweler, toothpaste can get the job done as well.

Toothpaste acts as a non-toxic cleaning agent for silver and leaves it smelling minty and fresh. Put a little dab on the item and polish until desired shine.

Keep Your Mugs Spotless

Whether you drink coffee or tea out of a mug, over time, build-up can occur that will make your mug look like it’s permanently dirty. Sometimes, soap or putting it in the dishwasher just isn’t enough, and this is where toothpaste comes in.

Add a generous amount of toothpaste into the cup and scrub vigorously with a damp cloth or toothbrush. Repeat the process until all the stains are gone and the mug looks good as new.

Get The Most Out Of Your Headlights

Something that most people find incredibly frustrating is when a cloudy film begins to build up on the plastic that covers your headlights. Not only does this decrease the amount of light your headlights produce making driving at night dangerous, but it isn’t very attractive in the daylight either.

So, before you go spending your time and money on expensive cleaning products reach for your toothpaste. Using either a toothbrush or rag, buff your headlights to clear away all of the grime. After you wash it off, buff one more time with a dry rag.

See how markers aren’t all that permanent after all!

Don’t Fret Over

Although many people enjoy a nice glass of red wine to go with dinner or unwind after a long day at work, it’s certainly a dangerous beverage. If you end up spilling even just a drop on any type of fabric it can stain, and you’ll be kicking yourself for being careless.

However, after blotting the spill with a rag, you can apply toothpaste that will help get out as much of the stain as possible.

De-Stress With Toothpaste

If you’ve ever used a stress ball, you know that they can actually help when you need to take your frustration out on something. However, not everyone has a stress ball lying around, but you can make your own using toothpaste!

Take a common balloon and secure it over the tip of a tube of toothpaste. Squeeze in the desired amount of toothpaste into the balloon, tying the top of the balloon when finished. Now, squeeze away all that stress!

Thread A Needle With Ease!

Threading a needle can be an incredibly frustrating task, especially if you don’t have a needle threader. Sometimes, it can even take minutes before you finally get it right! Well, by using just a little bit of toothpaste, it can make this daunting task that much easier.

Rub the tips of your fingers with a little bit of the paste and roll the tip of the thread between your two fingers. This will help to catch any loose threads and stiffen the tip of the thread to make threading the needle that much easier.

Don’t Smell Like An Onion

While there are few things more delicious than the aroma of onions cooking with butter and garlic, the smell of raw onions on your hands, as a result, isn’t always the greatest. Once you’re done slicing or handling onions, you may have noticed that the smell lingers on your hands, even if you wash them vigorously with soap.

You can put an end to this by washing your hands with toothpaste rather than soap. Not only will the pungent smell of onions be gone, but your hands will smell nice as well!

Permanent Marker, Be Gone!

A permanent marker can be a useful tool at times until you accidentally mark something you weren’t supposed to or it gets in the hands of the wrong person, like children. As it turns out, permanent marker isn’t all that permanent if you have some toothpaste lying around.

Because most toothpaste brands contain mild abrasives to help remove the plaque from your teeth, it can also help remove permanent marker. Place a dab on the spot that was marked, scrub with a toothbrush, and watch it disappear!

Don’t let old CDs and DVDs go to waste! Check out how you can restore them!

Hang A Frame Correctly Every Time

Although it doesn’t seem hard, hanging a frame correctly the first time isn’t always a guarantee, but it can be with the help of toothpaste. The trick is to place a dab of toothpaste to the hangar on the back of the frame.

Next, push it against the wall where you intend to hang it. After the frame is pressed against the wall, the toothpaste will leave a mark. This is where the nail should go, so your frame is centered and where you want it.

A Quick Fix For Nail Holes

Although this hack only really works if you have white walls, it’s a quick way to get rid of pesky nail holes left in walls. While you could go through the hassle of going to the store and buying spackle and paint for such a small hole, toothpaste is really all you need.

Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste in and around the hole to fill it, then wipe the excess with a damp rag. Nobody will be able to tell!

Clean Your Phone Screen

Keeping a smartphone screen clean is practically impossible since it’s continuously being touched all over by your fingers. To get your phone screen looking right out of the box, spread a think layer of toothpaste over the screen and gently wipe it off with a damp cloth.

However, if you’re phone isn’t waterproof, you might want to be extremely careful! This method can also help to eliminate any minor scratches buy rubbing the screen with a cotton swab dotted with toothpaste.

Don’t Let Your Iron Dirty Your Clothes

If you’ve been using an iron for a long time, you might have noticed some discolored water stains appearing on your fresh and clean clothes. Although it’s not at the top of a lot of people’s to-do list, it is important to keep the bottom of your iron clean for this reason.

A quick and easy way to do this is to take your iron when it’s unplugged and cool and give it a rub-down with a little bit of toothpaste and water. This will help remove any unwanted gunk and build-up.

You Can Save Scratched CD And DVDs

CDs and DVDs are great ways to store large amounts of music, videos, and pictures. However, if they end up getting scratched, there’s usually not a whole lot you can do, and everything on the disc can potentially be lost.

If you have a disc that is having a hard time being read by a computer or DVD player, toothpaste may be your savior. If you polish the disc with toothpaste, it can help to fill in some of the scratches so they can be more easily read.

Coming up: Toothpaste can help your body heal itself!

Hang Pictures And Posters With No Damage To Anything!

Sometimes, people like to hang up pictures, posters, or other paper decorations without using expensive and space-taking frames. However, there’s a way to do this without putting pin or nail holes in your walls and pictures either.

Toothpaste can work as a temporary adhesive when it hardens, so if you dot the corners of what you’d like to display and hold it against the wall, it will stick. Although it won’t last forever, it’s quick, easy, and won’t leave behind any marks or holes.

Keep Those Keys Looking Fresh

Not everyone washes their hands before they sit down to play the piano, which means that the keys accumulate all of the dirt and oils from your fingers, making them dirty.

Pianos aren’t just for playing music, but can also serve as a piece of art in your home, and nobody wants a piece of art to be dirty. So, grab a damp towel and some toothpaste and give each key a little rub-down to make them shine like new.

Refresh Tupperware

Even if you clean Tupperware after every use, if you store it with the lid on, you may notice that they start to smell old and used. Since nobody wants to store food in something that smells bad, this is a problem but it doesn’t require buying a new set of Tupperware.

For a quick solution, brush the inside with toothpaste and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out. Then, store with the lid off.

Get Your Straightener To Work Like It Should!

If you use a hair straightener on a regular basis, you may notice that the ceramic pieces begin to accumulate a coating of grime. This is typically caused by hair spray, shampoo, gel, dirt, or anything else that might be in your hair.

In order to remove this, rub the afflicted areas with toothpaste and a towel, and the silica in the toothpaste will help clean it all off. Now, you’ll get the results you want every time you pick up your straightener.

Say Goodbye To Breakouts

Waking up to breakouts is never fun, especially if you have a date or something going on that evening. Well, there is a handy little toothpaste hack that will help the breakout start to die down a bit.

All you’ll want to do is get a tiny dab of toothpaste and apply it directly to the breakout. The ingredients in toothpaste will help the breakout dry out and shrink in no time! Amazing, right? You won’t have to worry about caking on the foundation, trying to over up a blemish, anymore.

Heal A Bruise Faster

If you received a bad bruise that you are trying to get rid of as fast a possible a few household items, including toothpaste, can lend a hand. Take some regular skin lotion you have lying around and make a mixture using an equal amount of toothpaste.

Cover with a large band aid before going to be to stop it from smearing and wash it off in the morning. Repeat this process for one or two more nights or until the bruise has disappeared.

Clear Foggy Swimming Goggles

There’s nothing worse than having foggy goggles while swimming laps in the pool. How are you supposed to see the wall or people in front of you? Talk about running into unwanted objects! Well, thankfully, there is a way to fix that dilemma.

All you’re going to want to do is rub some toothpaste on the inside of the goggle lenses. Just applying a light film over the lenses will make that pesky fog a thing of the past. You can thank us later when you’re not running into lane lines!

Remove Pesky Dye Stains

If you’ve ever dyed your hair or clothing, then you know it beyond annoying to try and remove those pesky dye stains from your hands, clothing, and the sides of your shower. From personal experience, let us tell you that red dye is no joke to try and remove!

To make life easier, try this hack out for size. Rub a bit of toothpaste into the stain, let it dry, and then either throw it into the wash to clean it or scrub your hands underneath some running watch with soap.

Make Your Shoes Smell Fresh

Having smelly shoes is one way to put a personal bubble around yourself. And if those smelly shoes wind up on the floor next to your front door, say goodbye to anyone wanting to come over to hang out!

If you have a funky smelling odor coming from the inside of your shoes, try this hack. Take some toothpaste and rub it inside the shoe, right along the sole. Let the toothpaste fully dry and volia! Your shoes will no longer have people running for the hills.

Get Rid Of Those Minor Car Scratches

There’s nothing like a fender bender to ruin your day! Especially if that wreck happened to mess up the paint job on your car, something that cost a solid amount of money to get fixed. Thankfully, a little tube in your bathroom is going to save you a lot of money!

Toothpaste, a soft cloth, and a little TLC will buff out any paint damage and have your car looking as good as new. You’re welcome, by the way, for saving you a trip to the garage where they would have charged you some ridiculous sum of money.

Ink Stains Are No Longer Permanent

Have you ever made the mistake of leaving a pen in your pocket, and then it goes an explodes, leaving a nice stain behind? Yea, it’s not fun, and it’s a huge pain to get the stain removed. Well, we’re here to make your life a bit easier.

Run into your bathroom and grab your toothpaste, apply some directly onto the stain, let it dry overnight, and then throw it into the washing machine the very next day. You’ll be happy, and your shirt or pants will be in ink stain-free!

Clear Your Floor Of Water Stains

One thing that no one likes on their hardwood floors is water stains. Not only do they not look great, but there are no easy ways to get rid of the stains. Well, that is until toothpaste came into the picture.

To get rid of pesky water stains, you’re going to want to run into your bathroom, grab your tube of toothpaste, rub some into the stain, let it dry, and gently wipe the toothpaste off. You’re floors, or any other wooden surface will look good as new!

Soothe Itchy Mosquito Bites

Mosquito bites are miserable and are enough to ruin any fun outdoor adventure. And while there are a bunch of over the counter remedies that supposedly help soothe the itchy bites, they are very pricey and sometimes don’t entirely work.

So, instead of breaking the bank, think about using toothpaste! If you apply a little dollop of toothpaste directly on the bite and enjoy immediate satisfaction as the itch begins to soothe and become almost nonexistent in your mind. (Then go and apply a bottle of bug spray!).

Remove Nail Polish From Around Your Nail

When painting your own nails, getting polish on the skin surrounding your nails is the name of the game, especially when painting with your non-dominate hand. They only issue is removing the paint from your skin is a pain because you don’t want to remove any of the nail color.

Well, we’re here to make your life a bit easier. All you’re going to want to do is wait for the polish to dry on your skin, apply a bit of toothpaste to the area, and wipe it away! Yup, it’s that easy and it’ll look like you just left the salon.

Just Another Way To Deep-Clean Your Hands

Soap and water were so last year. If you’re looking for a way to give your hands a nice thorough scrub without breaking the bank and going to a spa, look no further than your own bathroom. Just pop on into your medicine cabinet and grab your toothpaste.

Not only will the toothpaste give your hands a nice minty-fresh scent, but the chemicals and baking soda in the paste will deep-clean, exfoliate, and give your hands the scrub down they’ve been waiting for.

Since hydrogen peroxide is relatively safe, you can use it to whiten your teeth, clean your ears, and care for your skin. You can clean your entire house with hydrogen peroxide alone—if you know how to use it correctly. Keep reading for the best hydrogen peroxide hacks.

Celebrities are paid to look good and stay in shape, so they need to be sure that their personal trainers really know what they’re doing. Training experts who have worked with stars like Courteney Cox and Kate Upton are sharing their advice on staying fit. From getting in enough steps each day to being sure you’re eating enough, there are plenty of suggestions that can bring your workout to the next level. Read on to see what these celebrity trainers have the famous faces of Hollywood do to stay in shape.

Pink’s Trainer Says Schedule Your Workouts

When it comes to working out, one of the hardest parts is just getting yourself going. Once you’ve started and your blood is pumping, it’s all downhill from there. That’s why Jeanette Jenkins, pictured here with Pink, recommends treating working out like any other meeting or chore and putting it in a schedule.

Jeanette has also worked with singers Alicia Keys and Kelly Rowland. All these women have been in great shape for years, and we would bet that they pencil exercise into their schedules. You can even put it in your phone and set an alarm so you don’t forget.

Jordana Brewster’s Trainer Says Take 10,000 Steps A Day

You may have heard the rule about doing 10,000 steps a day before. Having a device that counts your steps can be very helpful in accomplishing this. The primary goal is just to keep moving. Celeb trainer Harley Pasternak says that moving a little more each day is a vital part of staying fit.

He’s worked with Jordana Brewster, Katy Perry, and Megan Fox, so we’re sure Harley knows what he’s talking about. Plus, he follows his own advice. The trainer said, “I got rid of my coffee machine, and instead, walk to get coffee every morning.”

Coming up, Courteney Cox’s trainer says everyone should have this device.

Gwyneth Paltrow’s Trainer Is Against Cardio Television

Many gyms have televisions all over the place. There is even cardio equipment that has a television built into it. Still, personal trainer Tracy Anderson says you should avoid putting on a show while working out because “you don’t work out as intensely.”

Tracy has worked with Gwyneth Paltrow, Nicole Richie, and many other celebrities. She explains that when you’re distracted by television, you’re less likely to push yourself and thus end up burning fewer calories. Instead, focus on giving your workout your all so that you can accomplish more in less time.

Chris Pine’s Trainer Says Posture And Stability Are Vital

Actor Chris Pine relied on personal trainer Paul Vincent, of Altus Sports Institute in Santa Monica, to get him in shape for his role in Star Trek. Vincent believes that good posture is an important building block for fitness.

Vincent said he had Chris do an early morning workout with a stability ball to get his metabolism going. “The ball provides bodyweight resistance, while allowing you to stretch your back for proper posture.” They also did cross-training workouts with cardio.

Minka Kelly’s Trainer Believes Consistency Is Key

If you’ve ever wondered how Minka Kelly, Khloé and Kim Kardashian, or Sofia Vergara stay in shape, there’s one secret that may be the key. Their trainer, Gunnar Peterson, says “a little bit all the time is better than a lot every now and again.”

Rather than pushing yourself really hard a few times in a row and then abandoning ship, it’s best to do a smaller workout that you know you can pull off every day.

Coming up, Jennifer Aniston’s trainer has some advice about confidence that you may not expect.

Cameron Diaz’s Trainer Says Workout In The Morning

You may have heard that working out in the morning is better than any other time of day. Though there’s some debate about whether or not the time of day impacts your results, it can be helpful to get your workout over with first thing.

Trainer Teddy Bass says of working out, “If you wait, something else will come up.” Teddy has worked with Cameron Diaz, Lucy Lui, and Christina Applegate, all famous actresses who know about having a busy schedule. Knocking out a workout first thing ensures that other things don’t get in the way.

Jennifer Aniston’s Trainer Says Love Your Body As Is

Celebrity personal trainer Mandy Ingber says, “Having the body you want begins with loving the body you have.” Though it may seem counterintuitive, getting into shape starts with confidence. If you’re down on yourself, then it will be much harder to get into the gym and be consistent.

Mandy has trained actresses Jennifer Aniston, Kate Beckinsale, and Jennifer Lawrence. Even these stars have their insecure moments, and the last thing you want is to exacerbate negative thoughts by obsessing over the end goal. Being grateful for the body you have can motivate you to take care of it.

Madonna’s Trainer: Put Some Emotion Into It

Personal trainer Nicole Winhoffer, who has worked with Madonna and Rachel Weisz, emphasizes putting emotion into your workout. She says, “Emotions stored in the body can cause imbalance and stagnation.”

That’s why she suggests putting every emotion, from anger to happiness, into your movements. Imagine punching out all your fears, letting joy burst through you as you run, or melting away the sadness with every repetition. If you express your feelings instead of resisting them, you’re bound to have a more worthwhile workout.

Jessica Alba’s Trainer Suggests Measuring Yourself With Clothes

Relying too much on the scale can be frustrating since bodyweight fluctuates and doesn’t account for muscle mass. That’s why celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza suggests using clothes as a way to measure your progress.

She says, “Every week, try on the same pair of jeans.” The technique seems to be working for Ramona’s famous clients, which include Kate Beckinsale, Anne Hathaway, and Jessica Alba. After all, looking good in your clothes is a more tangible goal than reaching an arbitrary number on the scale, unless it’s for health-related purposes.

Next, Gwyneth Paltrow’s trainer wants you to break this common workout habit.

Heidi Klum’s Trainer Says Eat First

When working out, it’s important that you have enough fuel to keep you going. Personal trainer David Kirsch says, “An apple or a protein bar are convenient choices that help boost your workout and give your body an extra edge when exercising.”

David has worked with Jennifer Lopez, who doesn’t seem to be capable of aging. He’s also trained Kate Upton and Liv Tyler, both of whom are used to being in the public eye. As David says, having something small can help ensure you aren’t slacking due to hunger.

Courteney Cox’s Trainer Says Get A Heart Rate Monitor

Actress Courteney Cox has trained with Michelle Lovitt, as have Lauren Graham and Amber Valletta. Michelle’s biggest piece of advice is to get a heart rate monitor, saying that it “helps you train smarter, not harder.”

She went on to explain that seeing your heart rate helps you know how hard you’re really pushing yourself. Especially on days when you aren’t filling particularly jazzed about being active, heart rate monitors can help ensure that you put in the same amount of work you would on other days. This way, you can get to your goals faster.

Julianne Hough’s Trainer: Make Exercise A Lifestyle

These days, a common phrase is “it’s not a diet; it’s a lifestyle.” The same is true for working out! Julianne Hough’s trainer, Astrid Swan, says, “If you find a way to make your workouts a part of your lifestyle, you will always feel and be at your best!”

Working out makes you feel and look great, so making it a regular part of your day to day helps prevent sluggishness. If you are only planning on making it a habit for a set amount of time, then you’re bound to end up right back where you started.

Kristen Bell’s Trainer Suggests Doing 40+ Minutes Of Cardio

Cardio can be a quick way to burn up calories, but trainer Andie Hecker suggests sticking it out for more than half an hour. The ballet dancer and pilates enthusiast warns that “it takes 35 minutes to burn off blood sugar before your body can start metabolizing fat.”

Some of Andie’s famous clients include Natalie Portman, Kristen Bell, and Ginnifer Goodwin. Andie acknowledges that 15 minutes of cardio is “better than nothing,” but encourages her celebrity friends to push themselves longer to get leaner more efficiently.

Incorporate Your Favorite Unhealthy Foods Into A Balanced Diet

The last thing you want to do is throw away a workout with some junk food, but balance is key. One cheat meal isn’t going to undo all of your progress. On the contrary, it may even help.

Teddy Bass, who has worked with Lucy Liu and Cameron Diaz, says, “I don’t like banning a food completely, because then you’ll crave it the most.” Allowing yourself to eat your favorite food within reason helps prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by everything you can’t have.

Workout Multiple Muscle Groups At Once

Celebrity trainer Andie Hecker, who has worked with model Miranda Kerr, recommends multiple muscle groups at once. She explains, “You burn more calories when you work your upper and lower body at the same time.” Some examples Andie gives are swimming and using a weighted jump rope.

Since muscles burn calories, targeting large muscle groups all over the body is a sure way to burn up your fat and get your heart rate up. Whether you’re doing cardio, weight training, or anything in between, moving your entire body is a great way to lean out.

Switch Up Your Routine

Celebrity trainer Teddy Bass warns that doing the same thing for an extended amount of time will cause your progress to plateau. He explains, “You can’t keep doing the same Spinning class or 20-minute jog and expect a different result.”

Since the body is incredibly adaptive, it’s helpful to mix up your workouts so that your muscles don’t get used to your workout. Plus, different forms of exercise can target a wider variety of areas in the body.

Next, throw out the stop watch and do this instead.

Count Reps Instead Of Measuring With Time

Celebrity trainer Gunnar Peterson (seen here working with Giuliana Rancic) says that a better way to measure any activity is through reps rather than time. He states, “Instead of jumping rope for ten minutes, do it for 100 jumps. If you measure accomplishment by time, there’s no incentive to go harder.” The same goes for other exercises.

If you know that the clock is going to run out regardless of how much you push yourself, then it’s easier to slack off until the alarm goes off. On the other hand, if you know there’s a certain number of reps you need to achieve, you’re more likely to get moving.

Rest Days Are A Must

Celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza says that working out five days a week is the max because your muscles need proper time to recuperate. If you work out every day of the week, then your body doesn’t have time to rejuvenate.

Ramona points out that having downtime leads to better workouts and muscle growth. It’s better to pace yourself so that you can maintain your workout schedule than to push yourself too hard and end up wearing yourself out. Going on a walk with a friend can be a great activity for those days you’re skipping a full workout.

Don’t Rely On A Liquid Diet

Though green drinks can be an excellent addition to a healthy diet, they don’t replace substantial meals. Celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak warns that juice fasts and cleanses are “not effective, sustainable, or healthy.”

Having a complete diet is paramount when it comes to working out. Food is your body’s fuel, and while omitting unhealthy foods is helpful, it’s also important to make sure that you get enough of the nutrients your muscles need. Plus, growing muscles helps burn more fat.

Next, this trainer has some unexpected advice about unhealthy foods.

Move Throughout The Day

Celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak says that moving around isn’t only important because it helps you get your steps in, but also because it curbs your snacking. He states, “You’re more likely to eat when you’re sitting than when you’re moving around.”

Harley suggests making small adjustments throughout the day that encourage you to move more. He says, “Take the stairs, park far away, or get out of the cab and walk.” Though it may not seem like it’s making a big difference, habits add up.

Recent research says that even completing the recommended 30 minutes of cardio five times a week might not reverse the health risks that come with a sedentary lifestyle. That means even if you’re working out at night or in the morning, sitting in your desk chair all day undoes much of that effort. The solution is doing short bursts of aerobic strength exercises, fixing your posture, and stretching while you’re putting in those office hours. Workouts done at your desk probably won’t get your body summer-ready, but they will help you burn calories and tone up. Continue reading for some exercises to try at work.

The Wallstreet Sit

The best athletes in the world do this move all the time. Wall sits help build strength and endurance, but the best part is that anyone can do them anywhere, including at work!

Stand with your back against the wall, bend your knees, and slide down until your thighs become parallel to the floor. You can start by holding this position for 30 seconds, but once you get stronger, try and do 60.

Do you like to dance?

The Wanderer

Taking a walk by yourself at work is overrated. It’s time to get to know your employees a bit better. Stroll through the hallways and catch up with any co-workers you haven’t chatted with in a while.

This is also a great time to get to know a new employee. Also, forget about sending that email to Accounting. Get some facetime with Karyn down the hall instead. She might appreciate it!

Silent Seat Squeeze

The silent seat squeeze is a “deskercise” you can do discretely whenever you’re sitting at your desk. For everyone looking to get toned glutes, this is a good one for you.

To do this isometric glute workout, simply squeeze your buns, hold for five to ten seconds, and release. Continue at it until you finish a task, or when your behind begins to tire. After doing this consistently for a couple of weeks, you’ll start to notice a difference when you look in the mirror!

The Desk Pull

Where’s the fun in having a wheeled chair if you can’t play with it? When sitting in one of these enjoyable devices, make sure you’re arm’s length from your desk and grab onto the edge.

Next, you’ll want to activate your core, raise your feet slightly, then pull toward the desk while allowing your chair to roll forward slowly. Your chest should barely touch the edge of the desk before you push back to your starting place. Keep those feet raised and do this for 20 reps.

Stand More

Research says that long periods of sitting are linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. This makes standing the better choice while you’re at your desk all day long.

Research also says that standing greatly increases daily caloric expenditure. Staying on your feet is something you should invest more time in while you’re working. And you can try and encourage your co-workers to have standing meetings if they are able to.

Hate waiting by the printer? Try this next one…

Wait By The Printer With Intention

The printer sometimes needs an extra moment to heat up before it gives you what you need. Also, depending on how many pages you have waiting for you, your trip to the printer could be much longer than you want.

Never fear — that’s time you can use to sculpt your calves. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, press up with your toes, pause at the highest point, then come back down. These are super fun and easy to do; the only downside is the soreness you might feel the next morning.

Get In Some Leg Raises

Didn’t get that pay raise you thought you were going to get? Try out the leg raise instead. People barely notice these, and you can complete them whenever you want to get a little burn going.

While sitting down, straighten your legs and hold them in place for at least five seconds. Once you’ve done the time, lower your extremities without letting anything touch the floor. Repeat this for a minimum of 15 reps, and you’ve got yourself a solid workout.

The Paper Trick

For this activity, you’re going to have to do a little scouting. Look around the office for a ream of paper, or a sealed package of paper. When you take a seat, place whatever you found between your knees.

Once it’s there, press your legs inward, activating your inner thighs. Continue with this grip for 30-60 seconds while you’re readying up those reports. You should feel anywhere between a lot of or a little amount of tension, depending on the strength of your legs.

Take The Stairs!

Are you not in the mood for elevator talk? Do you need an extra cardio burn? Well, take the stairs instead! Ditch waiting on the elevator and put a pep in your step.

For a better burn, you can accelerate on the straight-aways and remember to take two steps at a time. You might feel it in your legs the next morning, but that’s what you signed up for, isn’t it?

The Abs Squeeze

Here’s another silent workout that won’t bring any attention to you. It’s called the abs squeeze, and you can do it while at your desk or walking through the hallways.

You start by taking a deep breath and tightening your abdominal muscles. Then, you bring them in towards the spine as you exhale. Remain in the squeezing position for five to ten seconds and release. Feel free to repeat for 12-15 reps and get ready to feel the burn.

Put those staplers to good use up next…

Curl The Stapler

A good stapler can be an employee’s best friend. Whether you’re seated or standing, take a stapler in one hand with your palm facing upwards. Now, just do a basic curling motion using the stapler as a weight.

Start with your arm at your thighs, then bend your elbow and curl your arm up toward your chest. Remember to pause at the top before you bring your arm back to your thigh area. It works best with a weighted stapler.

Make Your Posture Perfect

When you sit at your desk for the whole day, you must work on your posture. Practicing safe desk ergonomics is key to making sure you sustain a healthy body and a strong core. We hardly notice that we’re slouching when we are.

The first thing you do is adjust the chair height to make sure your feet, arms, and hips are all at a 90-degree-angle to the floor. You must also engage your core to keep your back straight throughout the day.

The Secret Dancer

It’s only Tuesday, and you’re already looking forward to Friday and an evening out at the dance club. Fortunately, there’s a solution for that weekly problem.

Release whatever stress you have and get some energy going with the seated dancing technique. You can make sure no one is watching beforehand, or you can show off your moves to your neighboring co-workers. Do whatever makes you feel comfortable, and have fun.

Pump Those Fists

Okay, this activity might draw some attention to you if you aren’t lucky enough to have an office of your own. It’s the simple fist pump move. Do this simple movement whenever you need to stimulate some blood flow.

Fist pump into the air like a champion and do this for one minute. Don’t forget to switch arms as you pump, and don’t be afraid to do it for longer than 60 seconds.

The Hamstring Helper

Toning and strengthening your hamstrings isn’t as hard as one might think. You can accomplish this at your desk whenever you stand up for a quick stretch. Stand behind your chair in case you need support.

Once you find your balance, kick one foot back in a controlled manner, and aim your heel towards the top of your thigh. Once you reach the top, slowly bring the leg back down and alternate to the other. Do at least ten reps of these.

Desk Squatter

Has standing around become too mundane for you? That means you need to add an extra step to this process and pop a squat. It’s simple and only requires that you start in the correct stance.

Begin with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees until your thighs are parallel to the floor. You’re basically taking a seat, without physically getting into a chair. You can raise your arms out in front of you toward the computer screen as you bend.

Throw Some Knuckle Sandwiches

This move is similar to the fist pump, except you’re throwing your fists forward and not toward the sky. They call this one shadow boxing, and you can wait for some extra motivation when you need it.

Stand up and begin throwing some jabs, uppercuts, and hooks repetitively. Once again, unless you have a private workspace, your co-workers might find this activity a little odd, but you need to get in your workout!

Call This One ‘The Flapper’

This simple move is easy to do anywhere, including at your desk. And it’s a pretty good way to tone up your arms while getting your blood flowing a bit.

Stand up and place your arms by your side with your palms facing behind you. Then, pulse your arms backward for five seconds. After the five seconds, release and do this 12-15 times. Be sure to keep your arms extended and straight.

Shoulder Shrug It Out

The shoulder shrug might be the most straightforward desk exercise for you to complete at work. We don’t recommend doing these shrugs during board meetings, however.

All you have to do is raise both shoulders simultaneously toward your ears and hold them there for five seconds, then relax. Repeat this action for 15 reps, and once you get strong enough, try doing it by holding heavy items in each hand.

The Celebratory Activity!

Did you win over a new client? Have you finally received that raise you’ve been praying to get? Did you figure out how to fix the printer? Any of those are enough to warrant a split squat jump!

All you have to do is place your feet hip-width apart, put the left leg back two feet, and balance on the ball of the foot. Next, you get into a lunge position and drive upwards with an explosion of energy. Switch your feet while you’re airborne. You can repeat as many times as you wish.

Aging is a part of life that we cannot avoid. After the age of 40 (sometimes as soon as 30 years old) we start to lose muscle mass. It’s also harder to lose weight after 40 as your metabolism slows down. And, we’ll probably start to experience some aches and pains out of nowhere.

The good news is that there is a tiny trick to growing older that may help reduce some of these unwanted side-effects: exercising. By keeping yourself moving and active you’ll have a better chance of warding off aches, pains, and a chance of suffering an injury.

Squats Will Strengthen Your Legs And Backside

Squats are a great way to tone your legs and bum, keep your muscles strong, and increase your flexibility. The best part is that you don’t even need to have a gym membership to do them!

Start by putting your feet shoulder-width apart, to help keep yourself balanced. This next part can be done a few ways, either hold your arms out parallel to the ground, clasp your hands together in front of you, or, hold a kettlebell between your legs. Then, squat! Make sure your knees don’t go over your toes, though. Hold the position for about 10 seconds, come up, and repeat!

Glute Bridges Improve Hip Mobility

If you’re sitting down at work most of the day, then you’ve probably felt a change in your hip flexors. According to COACH, “The [glute] bridge is great for improving hip mobility and strengthening your lower back, two things that any desk-bound worker can really benefit from.”

Begin by lying on the floor with both of your legs bent at a 90-degree angle. Engage your glute and core muscles, using them to bring your hips upwards. Your goal end-position is to have a straight line from your knees down to your head. Hold the position for about five seconds before slowly lowering back down to the ground.

Lower Body Stretches to Keep Your Body Strong

Lower body stretches have a lot of benefits for both men and women. It helps to circulate blood to your muscles, increases your flexibility, and may even help to reduce injuries. The key to stretching is not overdoing it and remembering that flexibility comes with time!

There are many different stretches, but let’s start with a simple low lunge. You will want to kneel on one leg, keeping the other bent at a 90-degree angle. Once you are situated, lean forward into your bent knee. Hold the stretch for a few seconds and then lean back into the “grounded” leg, extending your bent leg in front of you.

If you enjoy stretching, you’ll be running to sign up for this next class.

Yoga Helps Cleanse Your Body And Soul

We have to remember the importance of mental health as well as physical health. Thanks to all of the benefits that come along with practicing yoga, you will begin to feel younger in both your body and your mind. Not to mention, your flexibility will be off the charts!

“The purpose of yoga is to build strength, awareness, and harmony in both the mind and body,” explains Natalie Nevins, DO, a board-certified osteopathic family physician and certified Kundalini Yoga instructor in Hollywood, California. There are about 100 different schools of yoga, so feel free to explore your options and find one that cleanses your soul.

Resistance Exercises Jump Start Your Metabolism

Resistance training will help to improve your muscle strength and tone while helping protect your joints from injury. These types of exercises are a great way to get your metabolism burning again, making you feel younger in the process! If you have a rowing machine handy, then you are good to go! If not, try using resistance bands.

Start by putting the band under your right foot. Take one band end in your right hand, pulling it until it becomes parallel with your shoulder. Slowly bring the band back to its starting position. Do four sets of ten on each side. Once you become more comfortable, try adding weight!

Jumping Rope Burns A Lot Of Calories

Who knew that the childhood classic, jump rope, would have positive health benefits in later years? ScienceDaily says, “This aerobic exercise can achieve a “burn rate” of up to 1,300 calories per hour of vigorous activity, with about 0.1 calories consumed per jump.”

Try starting out with five sets of 15 jumps each, taking a ten-second break between each set. Even if you don’t have a rope, jumping up and down, even very lightly, can have an effect on your body. The important thing is to keep your heart rate up and your body moving!

Low-Impact Cardio Helps Increase Positive Thinking

As we get older, high-impact cardio can get to be too tiring and therefore not all too effective. That’s where low-impact cardio comes in! Low-impact cardio helps boost strength, stamina, overall health, and positive thinking. The best part is that this type of cardio can be a lot of fun and usually gets you out into nature.

Two types of low-impact cardio are biking or using the elliptical. Both of these exercises are easy on the joints and can be done away from a gym, if necessary. Remember, just because it’s low-impact, that doesn’t mean that the exercise is low intensity.

Up next are some of the benefits of HIIT. Don’t know what HITT stands for? Keep reading to find out!

HIIT Is Perfect For Anyone Constantly On The Move

HITT, or high-intensity interval training, is a short workout that alternates between periods of intense activity and rest. The entire workout usually lasts 30 minutes or so, making it the perfect routine for anyone who has a packed schedule but also wants to stay in shape.

Aside from HITT being very time-friendly, it has also proven to be effective at recharging slower metabolisms 24-hours after exercising, burning a lot of calories, and reducing heart rate and blood pressure. HITT is also never boring, as the exercises always vary. One day you could be sprinting, and the next, you could be doing weight exercises, almost like a circuit workout!

Balance Training Reduces The Risk Of Falling

As you get older, it’s very important to maintain your balance and equilibrium. It’s said to help reduce falls in older adults, helping prevent injuries in the process. There are many different exercises that can help with balancing training. You can try something a bit more complex, like Thai Chi, or you can go as simple as standing on one leg with your eyes closed for 30 seconds.

It might be best to start with standing on one leg because you can do it anywhere! If you’re in line at the movies, stand on one leg while you’re waiting for your popcorn.

Grab a friend to join you with this next exercise.

You Should Try To Go On Daily Walks

Many believe that workouts need to be very intensive in order to produce results. We’re here to tell you that is not necessarily true. Some research tells us that daily walks are just as important as weight-lifting and running. Walking can help you burn calories, strengthen your heart, lower your blood sugar, ease joint pain, and boost your energy.

The best part is that walking is free! You can grab a friend or loved one, maybe even your dog, and go for a nice half-hour walk around town. Your body and mind will thank you when you get home!

Planks Strengthen The Whole Body

Contrary to popular belief, planks don’t solely strengthen your core. This exercise has many other benefits, such as reducing back pain and strengthening your chest and spinal muscles. Planks are also known to improve one’s posture!

Planking is simple, all you need to do is to go into a push-up position, making sure your entire body is in a straight line. Tighten your core muscles and hold the position for at least 20 seconds, working up to longer stretches of time. If the push-up position is too intense, try putting your forearms down on the mat, bending your elbows at a 90-degree angle.

This next exercise will help get rid of some unwanted stomach fat.

Heel Touches Will Help You Get Rid Of Pesky Belly Fat

Heel touches are a core exercise that is great for both men and women who are looking to cut away some of that pesky side-belly that they’ve accumulated over the years. Not only can you do this exercise at home, but it’s also a great add-on for longer abdominal circuits.

Start by lying down on the floor, both knees bent, and your feet and arms flat on the floor. From here, you’re going to want to raise your chest towards the ceiling, and bring your right hand toward your right heel, then your left hand to your left heel. Repeat for 15 repetitions on each side.

Balance Ball Crunches Are Perfect For Those With Bad Backs

If you’re not a fan of lying down on the hard ground to do your core exercises, then try out balance ball crunches. Aside from keeping your back happy, this workout increases abdominal muscle activity more so then doing the same exercise on the floor.

To get started with balance ball crunches, you’re going to want to lie back on the ball with your feet shoulder-width apart. Put your hands behind your head, inhale deeply on your way up and then exhale on your way back to the starting position. Be sure to hold each inhale for about five seconds!

Swimming Helps Core Muscle Groups

According to Caleb Backe, a personal trainer and health and wellness expert at Maple Holistics, swimming can “enhance overall muscle strength, endurance, and tone.” The simple exercise helps to rejuvenate core muscle groups, especially for people over 40 years old.

This full-body workout is a great way to get into shape, increase energy levels, and burn a lot of calories. There are also a few different strokes to learn how to do, so be sure to stretch before getting into the water! There is nothing worse than a leg or arm cramp while swimming laps.

If you’re an avid golfer or tennis player, try incorporating this next workout into your routine.

Wood Chopping Can Help Improve Your Golf Swing

As you get older, it’s key to remember to practice rotational movement. For anyone who enjoys playing golf or tennis on a regular basis, wood chopping is a great way to reduce the risk of injury!

Wood chopping is exactly what it sounds like, a movement in which it looks like your chopping some wood. You’re going to want to grab a medicine ball, probably 10-15 pounds, and start in a squat position while holding the ball at your left hip. Then, twist to a standing position, lifting the ball above your right shoulder. Hold for a few seconds and return to the squat position.

Standing Push-Ups Help Tone Your Arms And Core

Push-ups are a great way to tone your core and upper body in one neat little exercise. However, the older you get, the more strain this workout might put on your wrists. If that’s the case, try standing push-ups. If done correctly, this exercise benefits your lower body, too.

First, you’re going to want to find a wall and stand about arms-length away. Then, place both hands flat on the wall about shoulder-width apart. You’re going to want your feet flat on the floor with your knees slightly bent. Slowly bend your elbows, lowering yourself towards the wall, hold for a second, and push back up.

An Inclined Treadmill Builds More Muscle Then A Surface Level Treadmill

If you’re getting increasingly busier with age, then we recommend an incline treadmill to speed along your workout results. Even if it’s just a one percent tilt, an incline builds more muscle in the ankles, calves, upper and lower thighs, and glutes than a level surface.

Using the incline feature on a treadmill can also increase the number of calories you burn. For example, if you weight 160-pounds and walk at a 4.0 pace with no incline, you will burn around 145 calories. If you raise that incline to five percent, you will burn around 243 calories. That’s quite the difference!

Standing Calf Raises Can Be Done Anywhere!

Calf raises are the perfect exercise for anyone who is trying to feel younger. Not only does this exercise increase muscle strength, but it also gives your lower legs a bit more definition, improving their appearance. This exercise can also be done virtually anywhere!

If you don’t trust your balance, we recommend standing next to a wall or something you’re able to rest your hands on. Then, bring one foot off the ground and point it behind you, rising up as far as you can on the other. Lower your heel slowly back down to the ground without touching it. Feel free to add weight when you get more comfortable!

This next exercise will have you running to sign up for a class.

If You’re Looking For A Motivational Class Try Spin

If you’re looking for an exercise that pushes you while making you feel younger, look no further than spin class! Spinning is a great way to burn calories while getting a full-body workout. Not to mention, it’s a lot easier on aging joints than running.

Classes are also a great way to get motivated with a new workout. So, if you’ve never done a spin class before, don’t be too worried! Trainers and other gym-goers are there to help you and push you to keep going. Peloton instructor Jesse King says, “Spin gives you a new perspective on how to ride, breathe, and think about your body.”

Seated Cable Row Works Your Entire Upper Body

The seated cable row is an exercise that works the back, forearms, and upper arm muscles. Unlike a typical rowing exercise, this workout is meant to increase strength instead of stamina (even though it does both!). Add this workout to your routine, and you’ll feel like an athlete in their prime in no time!

To start, sit with your back straight and your feet flat against the platform with your knees slightly bent. Grasp the cable attachment and pull the handle towards your lower abdomen, engaging your legs and core as you do so. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and return the attachment to the starting position.

Rheumatoid arthritis can make exercise feel impossible, but a sedentary lifestyle can actually worsen symptoms. Building strength creates muscles that support joints and take off some of the pressure. Stretching can also help alleviate pain by improving joint function.

The key is sticking to more low-impact exercises, such as yoga and swimming. Read on for some specific moves to try, the best forms of exercise for joint pain, and a few workout tips for those with rheumatoid arthritis.

Weighted Sled Push

Weighted sled pushes may look like something only athletes do, but they’re actually suitable for all levels. Best of all, they are low-impact and build strength and stability in multiple joints at once.

Be sure that the sled has an appropriate amount of weight on it. Grab the handles and lean into it with arms extended. As you push, focus on extending your hips and knees as much as possible to enhance your range of motion.

90/90 Hip Switch

A 90/90 hip switch brings gentle motion into the hips to open them up without putting too much strain on them. To try it, sit on the floor with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.

Place your heels slightly wider than should-distance apart. Then, drop them both to one side, allowing your torso to naturally shift to the side. Once your knees are as far down as is comfortable, pause, and then shift to the other side, repeating 10 times.

Coming up, use this to make hamstring stretches more accessible.

Shoulder Bridge

Bridge exercises look just like they sound, because you essentially turn your body into a bridge. A full bridge consists of holding yourself up with your hands and feet so your body becomes an arch, like a rainbow. A variation that’s more apt for those with joint pain is the shoulder bridge.

Simply lay on your back with knees bent, then lift your pelvis until your body is straight. Avoid arching your back and hold for a few seconds, then repeat. This exercise helps promote circulation while building leg and glute strength.

Three-Way Hip Exercises

One of the areas that can become sore and weak over time are the hips. To help open them up and get blood circulating, try a gentle three-way hip exercises. To start, hold on to something that can stabilize you, such as a table.

The first way is to lift your knee so it makes a 90-degree angle, then drop it back to the floor and alternate with the other knee. The second way is to swing your leg out to one side and bring it back, alternating legs. Third, extend each leg out behind you one at a time.

Strap-Aided Hamstring Stretches

Painful joints can make bending over to touch your toes feel impossible. One thing that can help is using a strap. Secure the strap around your foot and hold onto it with both hands.

Lie on your back with the strap still intact, and then slowly raise your leg toward the ceiling. Pull on the strap until you feel a gentle stretch through your hamstring. The strap will support the weight of your leg and prevent the need to curl your back.

Hand Stretches

It may seem silly to think about working out your hands, but many people with arthritis are deeply impacted in their fingers and palms. To keep your hands stronger and limber, alternate between stretching your fingers as wide as possible and then making a fist.

Repeat the motion and try it underwater for added resistance. You can also practice squeezing a stress ball. If that’s too painful, try using a foam ball submerged in water instead.

Isometric Lunges

Those with knee pain probably aren’t thrilled about the idea of doing lunges. Isometric lunges are different in that they are static. Rather than putting added pressure on the joints by going up and down, you simply hold yourself in place at a comfortable position.

To try it, stand with your shoulders back and core engaged, then take one step forward. Lower your body as far down as is comfortable and hold for 30 seconds. Practice at varying levels to build strength that can better support the knee.

Dumbbell Farmer’s Carry

An exercise that combines walking and weights is the dumbbell farmer’s carry. All you need to do is carry a dumbbell in each hand and take a few steps forward and a few steps back.

The added weight will force you to engage your core more actively to maintain a proper posture. It can help to imagine you’re balancing a book on your head or being pulled upright by a string. Practice for 30-second intervals.

Stay tuned to see what general forms of exercise are ideal for rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Wall Slide

Since shoulders are commonly affected by rheumatoid arthritis, it’s especially important to be sure to build strength in the muscle without causing too much tension. Wall slides are an excellent way to do this.

Stand against a wall with your back pressed against it. Then, bend your elbows and lift your arms as though you were mimicking a football goal post. From there, slide your arms up the wall, straightening your elbows. Bring them back down again and repeat for 10 reps.

Chair Stands

Chair stands are exactly what they sound like. They help build leg muscles but also give you enough control that they won’t overexert your knees. To try it, grab a chair you can easily sit down in.

Sit down, then stand back up, and repeat. If it’s too challenging, use your hands for support. If it’s easy, find something else to sit on that’s lower to the ground. Be sure to go slowly and to engage your muscles, rather than just dropping into the chair.

Water Workouts Take Pressure Off Joints

Water buoyancy can make movements easier by taking some of the pressure off of joints. That’s why they’re a huge help for those who have too much joint pain to easily move but need to still increase their mobility.

For extra help, you can even use a water jogging belt, which suspends you in the water so there is as little impact on your joints as possible. Simply walking from one side of the pool to the other can make all the difference.

Weight Lifting Builds Strength, But Know Your Limits

Weight lifting may seem like a lot considering strain is the thing to avoid with arthritis. However, it is one of the most effective ways to build strength, and anyone can do it so long as they know their limits.

To start, try some bicep curls with a 2-pound dumbbell. If that’s too much, consider doing some water weight lifting. Hold onto foam dumbbells and gently pull down, working against the water’s resistance. Let your arms naturally float back up and then repeat.

Coming up, this form of exercise utilizes straps to better engage the core.

Tai Chi Improves Balance

Tai Chi is similar to yoga in that it involves a flow of movements that helps improve range of motion. The gentle poses are also are rooted in breathing deeply, connecting mind and body, and promoting relaxation.

The exercise can help strengthen the body and improve balance, taking some of the load off of tender joints. Physician and Tai Chi director Paul Lam recommends that rheumatoid arthritis patients only practice for as long as they can comfortably walk, or about 20 to 40 minutes per day.

Cycling Increases Heart Rate Without Pounding The Joints

Many forms of exercise, such as running, require that you pound on your joints to get your heart rate up. Cycling is one form of cardiovascular exercise that is easier on joints while still building strength.

The benefits of cycling are the same whether you are biking outside or on an upright or recumbent stationary bike. Go with whichever option is the most comfortable and start with 10-minute intervals, increasing the length to 30 or 40 minutes over time.

Walking Is Low-Impact

Low-impact exercises are paramount for those with rheumatoid arthritis, and walking is one of the most accessible forms out there. If it isn’t too painful, start by walking for just ten minutes a day at a moderate difficulty level and speed.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends aiming for 60% to 85% of your maximum heart rate when getting started. From there, you can build up to 30-minute sessions three to five days a week, increasing the difficulty level as needed.

Suspense Training Intensifies Core Workouts

Since many rheumatoid arthritis patients are limited in their range of motion, it can be challenging to keep the core strong. That’s why suspense training can be helpful for those who don’t have serious wrist or ankle issues.

The exercise consists of suspending your weight with the use of straps. The straps give you more control over how your weight is distributed and offer a wide range of core workouts to try that are gentle on joints.

Coming up, this form of exercise is similar to Tai Chi and focuses on meditation.

Gardening Increases Endorphins

Gardening requires just enough activity to increase mobility without being harsh on joints. Research also shows that it releases endorphins, which play a role in pain relief. According to orthopedic rehabilitation specialist Gary Calabrese, endorphins can reduce arthritis pain.

While any form of exercise will contribute to this benefit, gardening has the added boost of being outside in nature. Just be sure you don’t get too carried away, as the repetitive motion of digging and being in a fixed position can have adverse effects.

Zumba Is Fluid Enough To Be Easy On Joints

Zumba is a Latin-inspired style of fitness dance that increases heart rate without being hard on joints. Exercise physiologist Caryn Locke explains that the fluidity of the movements makes it easier for rheumatoid arthritis patients such as herself.

Since it involves moving the entire body, start out by just trying it once or twice a week. Over time, your body will become stronger and more limber as it adjusts. You can also modify the movements to your comfort level.

The Elliptical Increases Endurance

Training on an elliptical machine is an excellent way to increase endurance without putting heavy impact on joints. The machine mimics the motion of running while keeping you on the ground, thus preventing the jolt of landing on each foot.

It also incorporates arm strength more than cycling does, building more strength throughout the body as you level up. Start at a resistance level that is comfortable and increase gradually to build endurance and mobility.

Qi Gong Combines Meditation And Movement

Qi Gong is similar to Tai Chi in that it focuses on slow movements that gently build strength. Physiologist Tess Franklin explained one practice that illustrates how the discipline softly works.

She says to sit tall in a chair, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. As you breathe in your nose and out your mouth, place a hand on your stomach and feel the diaphragm move. Focus on activating your core muscles to hold a firm posture with each breath.

Read on to see what tips to keep in mind with any kind of exercise.

Yoga Builds Strength And Flexibility At The Same Time

Yoga is an excellent form of exercise for those with arthritis because it combines strength building and flexibility. At the same time, it’s important to stick to a style and level that isn’t overly strenuous.

Yoga specialist Robin Rothenberg advises avoiding hot yoga, power yoga, and Vinyasa yoga as they can put strain on the joints and increase internal heat. Instead, stick to restorative yoga or Nidra yoga to gently increase mobility and reduce joint inflammation.

Build Up To Challenges

When it comes to dealing with joint pain, less is more. While it’s important to push yourself to build strength, be sure that you ease into it to avoid doing more harm than good. Condition your muscles properly before doing something challenging.

It’s also beneficial to incorporate warm-ups and cool-downs into workouts, especially as they become more strenuous. Start with more simple exercises and build up to the challenging ones in both your overall strength building and daily routines.

Adjust According To How You Feel

While exercise in general can help ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it’s still important to listen to your body. When experiencing a flare-up, be sure to modify your exercise routine accordingly.

Sticking to a regimen is an important part of creating improvement, but that can go right out the window if you push yourself too hard. Cut down on the time or lower the intensity when experiencing pain or swelling to allow the body to recover.

Do Multiple Short Bursts Rather Than One Long Activity

Even if something feels simple, like going for a walk, doing any activity for too long is bound to cause strain. This is especially true for those with rheumatoid arthritis since joints can easily become inflamed.

If you want to up your exercise routine, consider doing activities for a short amount of time throughout the day. This way, your body has time to recover in between sets, rather than getting increasingly worn down over time.

Create An All-Inclusive Routine

Some moves on this list may be more intriguing than others, but it’s important to try to create a well-balanced routine. Aerobic activities like cycling are just as important as resistance training with weights.

Furthermore, endurance and strength are best executed when the body is properly stretched and flexible. Try to build a routine that hits all of these areas, and mix it up over time so that your body doesn’t get used to anything.

There are those who think all water tastes the same and others who know for a fact that the flavor of water changes depending on the brand, pH balance, and more. There are numerous water bottle brands available, but as you’re about to find out, certain ones rank better than others for specific reasons. Whether you’re a fan of Aquafina, Fiji, or Evian, these are some of the best and worst water bottle brands of all time.

Worst: Dasani Is Actually High In Sodium

Most water bottle drinkers would think that the only ingredient would be water, but that isn’t true for Dasani. Launched by the Coca-Cola Company in 1999, this brand has some unique ingredients.

Dasani is made from tap water, salt, magnesium sulfate, and potassium chloride. The extra salt causes people to be thirstier than when they started drinking.

Coming up: This high-end brand actually got really bad reviews! Find out which one…

Worst: Aquafina Tastes Metallic And Muddy

Aquafina is manufactured by PepsiCo and is made primarily with tap water, so it usually doesn’t receive the best reviews.

Slate hired a group of tasters to drink various bottled water and they described Aquafina as “soft, metallic, and muddy.” Those probably aren’t the words PepsiCo wanted to be attributed to their brand.

Worst: Evian May Not Be As High-End As You Think

One of the oldest water bottle brands is Evian. Their water was discovered in 1789 near the south shore of Lake Geneva and they are usually considered a high-end brand.

When Slate hired a group of water bottle tasters to try Evian they described it as “salty, chalky, and soft.”

Worst: Nestlé Pure Life

While Nestlé is a household name, Nestlé Pure Life is not a water bottle brand people should be purchasing. According to a 2018 study conducted by Frontiers in Chemistry that examined 259 different water bottles, a sample of Nestlé Pure Life contained 10,000 microplastic synthetic polymer particles.

Needless to say, it doesn’t taste too great.

Worst: Dannon Spring Water

There is a reason why a lot of people have not heard of Dannon Spring Water. The biggest reason, though, is arguably because it doesn’t do much for a persons body aside from quench their thirst.

There are no rejuvenating properties or even electrolytes to keep a person hydrated for extended periods of time.

Mixed Reviews: Poland Spring Is A Favorite Among New Yorkers

The town of Poland, Maine is known for manufacturing the iconic Poland Spring water bottles. One of the places where you’ll see Poland Spring everywhere is New York City.

While New Yorkers love it, it doesn’t have the greatest taste. The expert taste testers at Slate called Poland Spring “dirty, salty, sour, and milky.”

If you’re from the Midwest, then you’ve likely tried this classic water bottle brand!

Mixed Reviews: Propel Fitness Water Was A Pioneer In Flavored Water

Propel Fitness Water was introduced in 2000 and stood apart for being one of the few flavored water options at the time. Ingredients found in Propel include water, citric acid, sodium, and vitamins C, B3, B5, and B6.

Water sommelier Belinda Chang described Propel to have a salty and metallic smell with a similar taste to Gatorade. That could be because Propel is owned by Gatorade.

Mixed Reviews: Ice Mountain Is Popular In The Midwest

Most commonly found in the Midwest, Ice Mountain natural spring water is a rather unique water bottle contender.

Belinda Chang, a water sommelier, described Ice Mountain as one of the most neutral-tasting water brands she had ever tried. Although, she noted it had a slight “mineral and pipe-like” aftertaste.

Mixed Reviews: Icelandic Glacial Is Filtered Through Lava Rocks

One thing that sets Icelandic Glacial water apart is its state-of-the-art water bottles. They are made to resemble actual ice crystals.

Their water comes from an underground spring that was caused by a five-thousand-year-old volcanic eruption. Since the water is filtered through lava rock, it can come out tasting bitter. The best way to combat this is to drink it while it’s still really cold.

Mixed Reviews: SmartWater Comes With Added Electrolytes

It’s hard not to notice the giant bottles of Glacéau Smartwater compared to all the other water bottles at the grocery store.

Smartwater is a vapor-distilled water brand with added electrolytes and was one of the first brands to add enhancements to its water. Expert tasters recommend opening the water and letting it breathe for a bit before drinking to get the best flavor.

Mixed Reviews: Core Hydration Has A Bottle Unlike No Other

The unusually shaped bottles of Core Hydration might get any shopper to pick it up and give it a try. The purified water is enhanced with electrolytes and minerals and comes with a naturally high pH balance.

Those who’ve tried Core Hydration love the bottle’s shape, but describe the taste as almost like air. Core Hydration drinkers recommend having it cold, rather than at room temperature.

Mixed Reviews: Check Out The Artwork On LIFEWTR Bottles

One thing shoppers are bound to notice is the colorful artwork featured on LIFEWTR bottles. The company rotates the artists to “advance the sources of creation and creativity.”

As for the flavor, LIFEWTR was given to blind taste tester Vincent Sanchez who seemed pretty neutral. “It’s not a bad choice of water, but rather than inspiring thirst with creativity, you’ll probably be inspired to choose something more if you can,” said Sanchez.

Mixed Reviews: Crystal Geyser Got Mixed Reviews

Crystal Geyser Alpine Spring Water is bottled directly at the source. According to their official website, they were the first American beverage company to start a PET recycling (rPET) plant where they recycle about a billion plastic bottles every year.

Grub Street performed a blind taste test with mixed reviews. One taster thought it had too much sodium, while another thought it had good body.

This next one was created on accident!

Mixed Reviews: Deer Park

When it comes to Deer Park water bottles, there are mixed reviews. While the water is branded as coming from 100% natural spring water with a ten-step quality control process, some people don’t care for the taste.

A 2020 Customer Report came out saying 47 tested water bottles contained heavy metals. Even so, some people still enjoy this brand.

Best: Penta Was Created On Accident

Penta Water was created by Bill Holloway in Carlsbad, California after his son Mike came up with a formula for highly purified water to treat his fibromyalgia.

Tasters at Mashed claim that the purified water has one of the cleanest flavors for a non-spring brand with just a hint of minerals.

Best: Boxed Water Is Better

Boxed Water is looking out for the environment with its earth-friendly paper cartons. These paper boxes are 74 percent made with trees, so they are better for the planet.

Some taste testers stated that Boxed Water had no overpowering flavors, was just a little thin, and wasn’t filled with chemicals and minerals like other water brands.

Best: Why You’ll Feel Better After Buying Ethos Water

Starbucks customers will most likely recognize Ethos Water because it’s their official water bottle brand. Its mission is to help children get clean water, so Starbucks donates five cents of its water proceeds to “support humanitarian programs in coffee-growing communities…”

Those who have tried Ethos water think it’s pretty refreshing and tastes just as good in the bottle or in a glass.

Mixed: Cisowianka

This Polish water brand is big overseas but still has some strong fans over in America.

Many associate Cisowianka with a super clean and fresh tatse, albeit a bit flat, and that’s due to it lacking any sodium which is by and large, probably a good thing. Purely because of its lack of notoriety over here we’re giving it a mixed review, but it’s a must-try if you find yourself overseas.

Best: How Fiji Water Got Its Name

Fiji Water gets its name because the water bottle brand originated, is bottled, and shipped from the country of Fiji. More specifically, Fiji Water comes from an artesian aquifer in Viti Levu.

Not only does the square-shaped bottle set it apart from other brands, but taste testers agree it’s refreshing and smooth.

Now that you know how water bottle brands rank, see how tap water quality ranks across the U.S.

Worst: Arrowhead Fell Flat During Its Taste Test

People who live in the western part of the United States have likely tried Arrowhead Water. Priests stationed at Mission San Gabriel Arcángel were some of the first to find the source of the Arrowhead springs.

Blind taste tester Vincent Sanchez tried Arrowhead and said, “The spring water of Arrowhead tastes less like it came straight from the freshest mountain streams and more like the water you drink when all hope is lost…”

Worst: Boxed Water

The new and controversial water brand is very noticeable because of its unique paper packaging.

While it’s ostensibly to reduce plastics, the most eco-friendly way to hydrate will always be straight from the tap. Thus, purely because of its marketing, Boxed Water has divided the masses.

Best: Acqua Panna Is Smooth All The Way Down

Acqua Panna gets its name from the Villa Panna hills in Tuscany, Italy, and was first bottled in 1880. This high-end brand reportedly has water travel 14 years through limestone before it’s bottled up.

Mashed says that Acqua Panna is one of the smoothest with just a little taste of minerals. It’s best served chilled because it can feel a little thick at room temperature.

Best: Zephyrhills Hits The Spot

Only certain areas in the U.S. get the chance to drink Zephyrhills. It’s a spring water bottle brand made in Crystal Springs and Zephyrhills, Florida.

Limestone aquifers purify the water, which gives it a “smooth, cool, and refreshing” taste. While Zephyrhills is one of the best-tasting spring waters, its bottle design is subpar.

See if you agree that this is one of the best water bottle brands of all-time.

Best: Why Essentia Is A Top Alkaline Water

According to their official website, “Essentia is supercharged ionized alkaline water.” This is done in a few simple steps where they purify the water, add electrolytes, and remove bitter acidic ions to get a higher pH balance.

Tasters at Business Insider tried Essentia and thought it had a “clean, smooth taste” and could rehydrate them between regular work days and intense workouts.

Best: Voss Is More Than Its Good Looks

Those who drink Voss probably can’t help themselves from feeling a bit fancy. The Norwegian artesian water bottle brand recently claimed that their entire manufacturing process is carbon neutral.

A taste tester at Mashed wrote, “Voss also has the smooth, crisp, food-complementary tastelessness you want with dinner but just enough minerality to know you’re not drinking wet air.”

Best: Ozarka

Crisp, refreshing, and a bottled water that goes through an 11-step quality process, many people swear by the Ozarka brand. Without any lingering chemical taste, a consumer of this particular brand even went as far as calling it the “nectar of the gods.”

It is considered by many to be one of the best bottled water brands around.

Best: Bai

Bai water is known to add electrolytes into its mixture, along with some fun flavors! From coconut water to Brasilia Blueberry, there is no getting bored with their brand’s taste.

One reviewer wrote of the water bottle brand, saying, “Taste is great, and the quality is there. Great, refreshing, and flavorful.”

Best: Just Water

While Just Water is technically packaged in a plat-based carton and not a plastic bottle, it still counts, especially considering its quality! One hundred percent sourced from springs on the Adirondack Mountains in New York, Just Water is not only eco-friendly but tastes great and is highly refreshing.

There are also four different flavors to choose from, as well as a sparkling option.

Best: Hint

What’s the best water bottle brand around? Here’s a hint! Hint water is infused with natural fruit flavors, foregoing all of the added sugars other flavored waters seem to gear towards.

With over 16 flavors to choose from, including a sparkling water option, Hint is a great choice for someone who wants a little something extra when it comes to their water.

Best: Eternal Water

Sourced from the Shasta-Trinity Alps in California, Eternal Water prides itself on being all-natural and not adding anything to its product. The only substance in the water in the naturally occurring electrolytes!

One reviewer wrote, “I love this water! I’ve been drinking it for over a year, consistently tastes great…”

Best: Waiākea

Sourced from the bio-diverse forests of Hilo in Hawaii, Waiākea water is an island favorite. The water comes from a well at the base of the Mauna Loa volcano, where it then pours through the volcanic rock!

The result: pure alkaline water that tastes refreshing. One reviewer wrote, “Love this water. [It] tastes so clean and pure and very hydrating.

Best: Mountain Valley Spring Water

Mountain Valley Spring Water is Arkansas-sourced water that is just as refreshing as it sounds. With a naturally high pH, this particular water bottle brand is rejuvenating and is considered to be “filtered through a geological treasure.”

One Amazon reviewer wrote, “You just can’t get any better than this. This is the gold standard.”

Best: Rhode Island

Even though it is densely populated, Rhode Island is an environmentally conscious state and takes great pride in having clean drinking water for its residents.

According to the State of Rhode Island Department of Health, “Rhode Island tap water undergoes rigorous and frequent testing to maintain the high standards required by the Safe Drinking Water Act.”

Keep reading to learn what’s wrong with Florida’s water quality.

Worst: Arizona

Arizona has some of the worst quality drinking water in the country. So much so that it is recommended that people get some sort of filtration system, so they don’t wind up with long-term health issues from drinking the tap.

Sadly, there are contaminants in Arizona’s water supply, such as chromium-6 particles, which can cause stomach cancer, skin burns, and pneumonia.

Best: South Dakota

South Dakota has a great track record of safe and good-tasting drinking water, having won the Drinking Water Excellence award for 16 years straight.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the state’s water is well within the guidelines for safe consumption of lead, copper, nitrates, arsenic, radium, and uranium.

Worst: Florida

Unfortunately, Florida’s landscape, and the fact that toxic blue-green algae and red tide microorganisms make their way into the water, doesn’t make for a great tap. Those aren’t the only things affecting the water supply, though.

Due to the number of hurricanes Florida faces each year, fertilizer and other contaminants runoff into the local water supplies.

Best: Mountain Towns In California

California is made up of a lot of different communities. The ones with this best tap water are located close to the mountains. With freshwater coming straight from the source, it is some of the best water in the entire state.

Also, it lacks the contaminates that the more rural and farming lands deal with.

Worst: New Jersey

While New Jersey locals might say differently, the state’s tap water isn’t the best or safest to drink in the country.

It might be “legal” to drink from the tap, but a 2018 report by OrbMedia found that a lot of the pipes expelling the water were leaching lead into the supply.

Best: Connecticut

Connecticut is only one of two states that does not allow wastewater discharge in the water supply, meaning it is one of the safest states to drink directly from then tap.

According to EWG’s Tap Water Database, there are numerous laws in place to ensure nothing leaches into the water, safeguarding public health.

Worst: Washington

In various places across the state of Washington, tap water is full of contaminants that are unsafe to consume. Some of these chemicals include arsenic, chloroform, chromium, uranium, and radon.

According to a 2018 report conducted by the Environmental Working Group, “six cancerogenic contaminants above health guidelines were found in “Seattle Public Utilities” water.”

Best: Massachusetts

Massachusetts has some of the strictest water testing standards in the country, allowing the state to have some of the best and cleanest drinking water. The forests throughout the state are also well protected, allowing naturally clean water to filter down into the treatment plants.

There is a reason the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority won “Best Tasting Water” in 2014!

Worst: Texas

While not all of Texas is affected by unclean drinking water, the rural parts of the state don’t have the best-tasting tap. Smaller towns in the state tend to have older lead pipes, resulting in the metal leaking into the water supply.

There have also been tests showing traces of other heavy metals and radiation.

Keep reading to learn why Pennsylvania has one of the worst drinking water qualities in the country.

Best: Vermont

The water systems throughout Vermont are highly regulated. The Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division implement and regulate the state’s Water Supply Rule.

This rule states: “The purpose of this rule is to protect the public health by assuring safe, affordable drinking water from Public and Non-Public Water systems, and to implement and enforce the provisions of the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act and Vermont statutes.”

Worst: New Mexico

Sadly, the water quality in desert lands of New Mexico is not great, especially in some of the larger cities.

According to a 2021 report from the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Company, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “While [Albuquerque’s] drinking water meets USEPA’s standard for arsenic, it does contain low levels of arsenic. USEPA’s standard balances the current understanding of arsenic’s possible health effects against the costs of removing arsenic from drinking water.”

Best: Minnesota

Protected by numerous clean water acts allows Minnesota to have some of the best quality tap water in the country. According to the Minneapolis Health Department, over 500 tests are done daily to ensure water quality is safe and tasty for people to consume.

The department also stresses how the state’s water is economical since most people prefer to drink the tap instead of purchasing plastic water bottles.

Worst: Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s history of coal mining does not help its present-day water quality. Since coal mining was a huge industry in the state, much of the environment has become polluted, including the rivers and lakes.

On top of that, multiple abandoned oil and gas facilities leak chemicals into the groundwater. It is not ideal for drinking.

The second California location is coming up soon, keep reading!

Best: Kansas

With the water standards and regulations set down by the Kansas Health Department, the state has some of the best drinking water in the country.

According to a 2020 report conducted by KC Water, “KC Water produced an average of 90 million gallons of drinking water per day, enough water to fill approximately 136 Olympic-sized swimming pools each day.” Emporia, Kansas, even won the Best Tap Water award.

Worst: Rural California

Some of the worst tap water in the country is found in rural California. While the mountain water is nice and fresh, rural California finds its water laced with harsh chemicals used by farmers.

These chemicals leach into the groundwater, and the result is bad-tasting tap water that isn’t necessarily great to drink.

Best: New Hampshire

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has very strict guidelines when it comes to testing the state’s clean water supply.

In fact, New Hampshire is one of the few states in the country that requires testing for PFAS, a toxic chemical that can have fatal consequences if ingested.

Worst: Ohio

Sadly, Ohio has some of the worst quality drinking water in the country. Due to old pipes, lead makes its way into several water supplies throughout the state. And no one should drink water with high levels of lead.

According to a report done in 2015, “Ohio ranks as one of the worst states for [untested or contaminated systems] offenses.”

Best: Oregon

According to residents in Oregon, the tap water throughout the state are incredible, particularly the mountain towns such as Bend. There, fresh mountain water is brought straight down to cleaning facilities and dispersed into households.

This is one place where plastic water bottles and BRITAs are in very short supply!

Worst: Georgia

The Environmental Protection Agency and CDC agree that Georgia has one of the worst public water supplies in the country. With polluted rivers, streams, and wells, numerous metals, chemicals, and other contaminants leach into the water.

According to the two agencies, “contaminants such as microplastics are not regulated, and others such as lead and disinfection by-products can often be found locally in the household.”