Tag: Ant-Aging behavior

  • Understanding Different Types of Birth Control

    What is Birth Control

    Birth control is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. There are many types of birth control, and each type has different mechanisms of action, effectiveness, and side effects. Many people choose the best method of birth control according to various factors such as health, lifestyle, and personal preference. Consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended to select the method that best fits individual needs. The following are the types of birth control discussed as follows:

    Types of Birth Control

    • Hormonal methods are one of the types of birth control that explain how hormonal methods of contraception are highly effective in preventing pregnancy by utilizing hormones to stop or regulate ovulation, alter the cervical mucus, and modify the uterine lining. These methods include the birth control patch, a small stick-on patch worn on the skin that releases hormones similar to the pill. It is replaced once a week for three weeks, with a week off.
    • Birth control pills and injections are two common methods of contraception. Birth control pills are taken daily and contain a combination of estrogen and progestin or just progestin. They are highly effective when taken correctly. Another method is birth control injections, which are progestin injections given every three months. The injection is effective, but a healthcare provider must administer it. Lastly, there is the implant, a small rod inserted under the skin of the arm that releases progestin. It can prevent pregnancy and can last for 3 to 7 years, depending on the type.
    • Permicidal methods are chemical substances that kill sperm, or you can say they are contraceptive substances that work by preventing sperm from reaching an egg. They contain chemicals that primarily block the cervix. Spermicides can be used alone or in combination with other barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms to enhance their effectiveness. Creams, gels, foams, and films can be inserted into the vagina before intercourse. They are less effective on their own but work better when used with other methods. This is another option among the types of birth control, and many people choose this method of controlling birth according to various factors in their community.
    • Barrier methods physically block sperm from reaching the egg. These are non-hormonal and are often used in combination with other methods for increased effectiveness. Condoms, a thin covering worn on the penis (male condoms) or inserted into the vagina (female condoms), also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The diaphragm is a dome-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix. It is used with spermicides to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Another method is the cervical cap, which is similar to the diaphragm; it fits over the cervix to block sperm and is often used with spermicides.
    • Emergency contraception methods refer to the methods that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. There are several options available, each with varying effectiveness and mechanisms of action. One type of emergency contraception method is the morning-after pill, which is available over the counter in some places. It contains hormones that can delay or prevent ovulation. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The second option is the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD), which is the most effective form of emergency contraception. It can be inserted by a healthcare provider within 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse. The copper intrauterine device works primarily by preventing fertilization through the release of copper ions.
    • Permanent methods of birth control are intended for individuals who do not wish to have children in the future. This means that a person cannot have children for the rest of their life because these methods can permanently disrupt the reproductive system. Sterilization, such as tubal ligation for women, involves cutting, tying, or blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus; it is considered a permanent method. The vasectomy method is a surgical procedure for men where the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm) are cut or blocked, preventing sperm from being ejaculated. This is also another type of birth control.

    Apart from discussing those methods that seem more artificial, it is important to note that they should be recommended by a healthcare provider, as they may involve serious health problems if taken without direction from a physician.

    Natural Birth Control

    Natural methods (fertility awareness methods); these methods rely on tracking the menstrual cycle to determine the most fertile days and avoid unprotected sex during that time.

    • Calendar method: This method involves tracking safe and dangerous days before sexual intercourse. Women should mark the length of each menstruation they experience in order to know their most fertile days, so that they can use protective tools like condoms or abstain from sex. This method is effective for women who have regular menstruation, unlike those who have irregular menstruation. Additionally, cervical mucus may be detected or observed for changes to predict ovulation and avoid sex during fertile days or times.
    • Withdrawal methods involve a male partner withdrawing his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. This method, also known as coitus interruptus, is less effective because pre-ejaculated fluid may contain sperm, and it is hard to control consistently. Many people use this method to prevent unwanted pregnancies, and when used correctly, it can be effective for birth control. Withdrawal methods are important because they have fewer negative impacts on those who practice them.
    • Lastly, abstaining from sexual intercourse is the best method above all, since it is 100% effective. It helps individuals avoid controversial health issues like sexually transmitted infections. Even religious people encourage young boys and girls who are not ready to have children to adhere to this method. However, it is difficult due to the biological makeup of individuals, but it can still be practiced to prevent unwanted pregnancies and diseases.

    Therefore, apart from the types of birth control, there are many important aspects and negative impacts of birth control in daily life. Birth control is very important to our lives because it can cause the following benefits: prevention of unwanted pregnancy, family planning, economic and career benefits, improved maternal health, improved quality of life, reduced abortion rates, women’s health and autonomy, and it can reduce over-dependence on the nation level because, through birth control, the number of people related to the needs of the nation can be managed. However, birth control also has many negative impacts on people in the community, such as side effects like spotting and bleeding, nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, headaches and migraines, mood changes, increased risks of certain cancers, blood clot risks, and changes in menstrual cycles. Therefore, everyone who practices birth control should do so carefully in order to avoid risks to individuals and our community.

  • 3 Secrets to Anti-Aging Health Behaviors You Should Know

    How to Stay Young in Your Old Age

    Old age brings physical modifications to our bodies, which can trigger different physical impairments, including muscle weakening, weakened bones, and joint discomfort. Mental deterioration from aging leads to diminished memory function, emotional depression, and social isolation, as well as decreased response times. The aging immune system weakens our ability to fight infections, while heart disease, together with low metabolism, develops as cardiovascular problems. The weakness of sensory organs creates the risk of vision loss and hearing-related problems.

    However, aging is a natural process, and it comes with its impacts on our health, as we can see. There are behaviors that can help prevent and lower weak traits in old age, allowing you to live with youthfulness while remaining energetic and capable of handling mental tasks. This guide provides behavioral guidance to help you stay youthful in your old age.

    1. Consider an anti-inflammatory diet every day; it’s important to consume a well-balanced diet at any age. Read “Nutritional Guides for Every Age.” to know what you can prefer more in your diet. In old age, the body’s reaction to disease or infection is not as normal as in younger individuals, which can lead to severe swelling, redness, or pain in some parts of the body. This can result in more severe issues when you eat foods that have attributes of inflammation.

    What types of foods cause inflammation?

    • Processed foods, meats, refined carbohydrates, and sugary foods and drinks—such as white bread, chips, and sugary beverages—facilitate the overproduction of insulin, which leads to inflammation.
    • The intake of excessive red meat, particularly from pork and beef, contains natural proteins that are not produced by the body. This can cause the body to react and lead to low-grade inflammation.
    • High consumption of alcohol—wine, spirits, and beer—when taken in large amounts, may cause oxidative stress in the liver and lead to inflammation.

    Inflammatory foods are very harmful since they trigger the body’s immune system to react against them and cause inflammatory diseases, which can lead to diabetes, hypertension, and digestive disorders. In this case, we are recommended to follow an anti-inflammatory diet to prevent these inflammatory diseases.

    An anti-inflammatory diet?

    There are foods that help reduce inflammation and keep you healthy. We are encouraged to avoid foods that are high contributors to inflammation in order to reduce the risk of associated diseases. The following are some of the foods that are free from inflammation.

    • Fatty fish and plants that are rich in omega-3, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, are known for their advantages in fighting inflammation. Additionally, plant-based foods like nuts and seeds are recommended to reduce inflammation.
    • Ginger and green tea: Make sure you drink 3 cups of tea that have been mixed with ginger or take green tea to reduce the risk of inflammation.
    • Use tomatoes, garlic, and onions as a side dish. They provide special enzymes that boost the immune system and prevent the risk of inflammation.
    • Drink the maximum required amount of water to stay hydrated. Water helps keep your body clean from toxins and also boosts the immune system.

    2. Another secret to staying young is to engage in regular exercise and remain active. The behavior of being physically active helps your body retain energy for the long run. Regular exercise increases body mass strength and also helps improve mental strength by reducing stress and depression; it also facilitates heart health.

    Types of Exercises for Anti-Aging

    • Training for strength can involve lifting weights, doing push-ups, and using resistance bands. This helps to strengthen muscles and gain muscle mass. For more stability and strength, use exercises like jumping, mountain climbing, and sprint intervals. This can be done daily or intensively for 2 to 3 hours each week.
    • Aerobic exercise involves walking, cycling, jogging, dancing, and swimming, which help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the chances of having a stroke, and boost energy levels. Try to do it intensively for 2 hours per week, but walk every day as much as you can.
    • Stability and flexibility exercises, single-leg stands, yoga, and stretching help to strengthen joints, which will facilitate easier movements in old age. It is recommended to do them every day or three times a week.

    Advantage of Exercises for Anti-Aging

    • Enhancing skin health to avoid skin tags, brown rough patches, and other skin problems requires more cardiovascular-related exercises, including jumping rope, cycling, push-ups, running, fish pose, child’s pose, body stretches, and facial exercises like chewing gum, puffing cheeks, and jawline exercises.
    • It maintains physical health and fitness, primarily because our muscles become stronger when we do exercises, especially when we lift weights. Intensive exercise for building muscle mass also helps to build strong bones, which contribute to maintaining the physiology of the body. Additionally, it keeps you away from obesity and prevents weight gain.
    • It reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Various diseases rise with old age, such as stroke, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, vision and hearing loss, and mental illnesses. See this article for clarification: “Five Simple Ways to Avoid Non-Communicable Diseases” The only way to reduce the risk of these diseases is to stay active by doing regular exercise.

    3. The last secret is to have the ability to manage stress and connect yourself with things that give you happiness. A stress-free person is more likely to live long because a fresh mind helps you feel comfortable with who you are, what you have, and what you need the most. In this world of social media, young people show their wealth, and their prestigious lifestyles may cause stress for low-income individuals, without knowing what you really want and what you should focus on. So, focus on your life journey toward your goals.

    Always remember that moderation is key to avoiding stress. Don’t allow your mind to think too much, as it can lead to depression. Allow yourself to focus on things that you can afford, connect with people of the same status and goals, and do what keeps you happy.

    What to Do to Manage Stress

    • Try to set realistic and achievable goals. You may want to consider your financial balance when you need to do things that require money.
    • Develop habits of meditation and mindfulness. They help you recognize stress because when you meditate, you reduce cortisol levels in your body and boost your mood and confidence.
    • Try to sleep as early as you can to allow your body to relax and repair. Avoid screens for hours before going to bed, and make sure your room is clean and cool.
    • Avoiding too much alcohol and tobacco when you are feeling stressed is important, because using them can lead to increased frustration and stress.
    • Involve yourself in hobbies like playing football, tennis, listening to music, or any sport and entertainment that you enjoy to improve your mood and stay happy and calm.
    • Also, connect yourself with friends or family to discuss things that are difficult for you to solve; this is an important weapon to fight against stress.

    Let’s practice those behaviors which is simple and achievable because it connects our selves with our daily life, stay strong to day and tomorrow by considering proper nutrition from our lovable goods and do some exercise per day or two times per week and don’t allow stress to reduce your age. These behaviors will keep you healthy and focused in your goals.