BENEFITS OF BAKING SODA FOR SKIN, HAIR AND BODY

1. Treats Body Odor
   Baking soda absorbs moisture and sweat from the skin thereby reducing  mild to severe body odor. Also as an antibacterial agent, baking soda helps kill bacteria that give rise to body odor. It is one of the best natural deodorizers.
How To:
1. Combine1/8 tsp of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of water and couple of drops of any essential oil. Use a cotton ball to apply on your underarms or areas where you sweat excessively. Do it regularly.
2. Mix equal amounts of baking soda and cornstarch, dust this powder unto your dry underarms to prevent sweating and bad odor.

2. Treats Smelly and Oily Hair
   Oily hair picks up environmental pollutants and strong smells more readily. It is a very embarrassing problem. The alkaline nature of baking soda balances the pH levels on the scalp to keep it healthy and clean. Baking soda also reduces oiliness and neutralizes foul odors.
How to:
1. Mix 1 part baking soda with 3 parts water apply on dump hair, let it stay for 5 minutes and rinse it off, repeating the procedure once or twice a month.
2. Thoroughly mix equal amounts of baking soda and cornstarch. Sprinkle it at the roots of your hair and tousle your hair around. Brush your hair thoroughly with a good quality brush.
3. Add 1 tbsp of baking soda in your regular shampoo bottle and use it to wash your hair 1-2 times a week.
4. Mix baking soda with tea tree oil. Apply on your damp hair. Leave it for 20 minutes, and then rinse it really well.

3. Nail Care
   Due to excessive use of nail polishes, harsh nail polish remover or detergents  our nails tends to change color. Baking soda has bleaching and exfoliating properties that remove stains and whiten your nails.  If you notice any color change in your nails, clean your nails once in a week with baking soda.
How To:
1. Put ½ cup of water, 1 tsp of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 1 tbsp of baking soda in a bowl. Stir well until baking soda dissolves, and dip your nails 2-3 minutes repeating this once every 2 weeks.
2. Take a nail brush, add baking soda and a few lemon drops and scrub your nails with it. After 10 minutes wash it off.

4. Brightens Yellow Teeth
   Baking soda works as a mild abrasive to remove yellow stains from your teeth. It also helps remove plaque by neutralizing acids produced by the bacteria. When using baking soda on your teeth be cautious as excessive use of baking soda can strip your teeth of its natural protective enamel.
How To:
1. Simply put a bit of baking soda along with your regular toothpaste on your toothbrush and brush your teeth for 2 minutes doing this only once a day.
2. Prepare a homemade teeth whitener by mixing 4 tbsp. of turmeric root powder, 2 tbsp of baking soda, and 3 tbsp of extra-virgin coconut oil. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Use a small amount of the mixture to brush your teeth once a day for a few days.

5. Fights Acne, Pimples And Make  Acne Scar Mask
   The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of baking soda, helps treat the cause and reduce the symptoms of acne and other breakouts. It also balances the skin’s pH levels.
How To:
1. Mix 1 tsp of baking soda with a little water to make a paste, apply
on the affected area and let it stay for 1-2 minutes. Rinse off with cold water. Repeat this procedure 2-3 days and then reduce the frequency to 1-2 times a week.
   Baking soda also get rid of ugly acne scars by shedding the old skin and replacing it with a new one.
How To :
1. Add olive oil to 1 or 2 tbsp of baking soda. Apply using your hands or cotton ball and massage in a circular motion. Let it stay for 30 minutes. Wash your face with warm water. Use several times a week to get better results.

6. Deodorant
   One of the very unexpected uses of baking soda is it's use as a deodorant. it's cheap and contains less chemicals than deodorants. Most deodorants in the market are full of chemicals that make your underarm skin black and leave stains on your clothes. Homemade deodorants prevent body  odor and black sweat stains.
How To :
1. Take 3 tbsp of baking soda and add 3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil. Mix all together. Apply it with a powder puff or any brush onto your underarms, it will neutralize the body odor.

7. Hand softener
   Baking soda can be used to make hand softener, and say goodbye to those dry hands. You can have soft hands without using any chemicals, harsh soap or beauty creams
How To :
1. Take 1 tbsp baking soda, 1/2 tbsp crushed sugar and a few drops of
olive oil, rub your hands with this mixture. Wash your hands with water after 10 minutes. Do this daily.

8. Treats Nail Fungus
   Nail fungus is a fungi infection that grows under the nails,  resulting in discolored, crusty, thick and distorted nails. It makes the nails look ugly.  The alkaline nature of baking soda can prevents the growth of fungi.
How To :
1. Make a paste of 1-2 tsp of baking soda mixed with warm water, apply it on the nails for couple of minutes and then rinse off with warm water. Do this procedure once a day.
2. Mix 2 tbsp of baking soda in 1 cup of raw unfiltered apple cedar vinegar, soak the affected nails for 5 minutes in the solution. Pat dry them with paper towels. Do this twice a day.

9. Blackheads And Whiteheads
   To get rid of blackheads and whiteheads simply make a baking soda mask.
How To :
1. Do some cleansing with raw milk or whatever you chose, then take hot water in a bowl for steaming. Take five tbsp baking soda, add 1 or 2 tbsp distilled water and mix well. Apply on your face and wait for 5 minutes after that steam your face with the hot water.

10. Heals Skin Rashes And Itchiness
   Due to its anti-inflammatory properties baking soda has soothing effect on the skin,  and this helps to reduce inflammation, swelling and itching. But if your skin is broken or irritated avoid using baking soda.
How To :
1. For localized itching, mix 1 part water with 3 parts baking soda, apply on the affected area, let it sit for couple of minutes and then wash it off with cool water. Do this on a regular basis.
2. For itching all over the body, add 1 cup of baking soda in a bathtub of cool water and soak yourself in it for 10 minutes a day.
3. For insects bites or bee sting on your skin, rub baking soda into this place and you will be relieved.

11. Baking Soda Shampoo
   To cleanse your hair from the residue that styling products leave behind and get a wonderful purifying shampoo, you can mix baking soda with your
favourite shampoo. Do not make it your everyday shampoo, wash with it once or twice a month.
How To :
1. Mix 1 tbsp of baking soda with 1 tbsp of your favourite shampoo and wash your hair with this mixture.
2. You can also just wash your hair with just baking soda plus water.

12. Remove Dandruff And Promote Hair Growth
   Baking soda balances the pH levels of the scalp to a healthy equilibrium, thereby removing dandruff and promoting hair growth.
How To :
1. Rub 1 tsp of baking soda on wet hair and scalp, let it stay for 1 minute and rinse thoroughly. Do this once a week.
2. Mix 1 tsp of baking soda with freshly squeezed juice of 1 lemon, apply it on your scalp and let it stay 2-3 minutes, then rinse off. Do this once a week.

13. Improves Skin Complexion
   Baking soda is an excellent exfoliating agent that helps remove dead cells, which helps to brighten the skin and give an even skin tone. It also balances the skin’s pH levels which is important for an even and clear skin. It is easy and inexpensive to make. Make sure to moisturize your skin after using baking soda
How To :
1. Make a paste of 1 to 2 tsp of baking soda with enough filtered water or rose water, apply the paste on your face, let it sit for sit for 1 minute, then gently rub it off using only the tips of your fingers. Rinse off with
lukewarm water and pat dry.
2. Mix 1 tbsp each of baking soda and fresh lemon juice along with 4 or 5 drops of extra-virgin olive oil. Apply the paste on your face, let it stay on your face for 5 minutes, then rinse it off with cold water. Repeat 2 or
3 times a week.

14. Relieves Sunburn And Sunburn Blisters
   Baking soda has soothing effect due to its alkaline nature. This property  helps relieve itching and burning sensations. It also has mild antiseptic and drying properties that help dry out sunburn blisters quickly.
How To :
1. Mix 1 to 2 tbsp of baking soda in a cup of cold water, soak a washcloth in
it, wring out the excess water and apply it on the affected area. Let it stay for 5-10 minutes. Repeat this 2-3 times a day,
2. Add ½ cup of baking soda in a bathtub filled with water, stir well and soak yourself in it for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry or allow your body to air dry. Do this  once daily for a few days.

15. Baking soda mouthwash
   To freshen your breath and neutralise bacteria, you can create an easy
baking soda mouthwash.
How To :
1. Mix 1 tsp of baking soda and 3 drops of peppermint essential oil or
eucalyptus essential oil in a glass of water.
2. For sore tooth,  mix 1 tsp of baking soda and 1/2 cup of water, use as a mouthwash, the pain will diminish.

16. Beauty Uses
   Baking soda has tons of beauty uses,  it can be used as facial scrub, body exfoliant and for foot soaks. Baking soda cleanse the skin and removes dead cells, making your body baby soft and very smooth.
Facial Scrub:
How To:
1. Mix 1 tbsp of baking soda with 2-3 tbsp of water in your hand, gently massage it into your face for about 1 minute in circular motions, then rinse off. Do this once or twice a week. 
2. Mix 1 tbsp of organic honey with one tbsp of baking soda, rub gently, in circular motions on your face, do it for about 1 or 2 minutes.

Body Scrub:
1. Mix 3 tbsp of baking soda with 1 tbsp of milled oatmeal and  3 tbsp of water. Rub this paste into your body in circular motions and then, wash with warm water.
2. Mix  3 tbsp baking soda with brown sugar and water, gently spread this on your  body in a circular motion for 15 minutes, rinse off with water. You can use it every day.

Foot soaks
How To :
1. Take warm water, add Epsom salt and baking soda in it, soak your foot in this mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. Use a loofah and scrub your foot to get rid of dead cells. Use a towel to dry your foot and apply a moisturizer after that.

   I hope you enjoy reading this post. There are many other uses of baking soda, if you have other remedies you can tell us, also don't forget to tell us the results if you tried these home remedies.

URINARY TRACT INFECTION

WHAT IS URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)
   Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, which are the bladder, the kidneys and urethra. These are the structures that urine passes through before being eliminated from the body. Most UTIs involve the bladder and the urethra and they  can be painful and uncomfortable,  but when the kidneys are involved, they can be life threatening.
   Urinary tract infections are the second most common type of infection in humans, but women are at greater risk of developing it than men are. Some women experience them regularly (called recurrent UTIs). Urinary tract infections also affects children. It is the most common urinary tract problem in children besides bedwetting and are more likely to be serious than those in adults (especially in younger children).

WHAT IS THE URINARY TRACT?
   The urinary tract consist of the Kidneys, the Bladder and the Urethra. The upper urinary tract is composed of the kidneys and ureters, while the lower urinary tract consists of the bladder and the urethra.

The Kidneys
   The kidneys are two small, bean-shaped organs that are located on either side of the spine at about waist level. The function of the kidneys is to filter the blood to remove excess water, salt, urea, potassium and other waste from the body and eliminating them as urine.  Urine are carried from the kidneys to the bladder through the uterers.

The Bladder
   The bladder is a small, balloon-shaped organ, that collects and stores urine. In men, the bladder is located just above the prostate gland, while in women, the bladder is located in front of the uterus.

The Urethra
  The urethra is a tube through which urine exits the bladder. A muscle called the urinary sphincter, that is located at the junction of the bladder and the urethra, must relax at the same time the bladder contracts to expel urine. The urethra in men is longer than that in women as it has to pass through the prostate and the penis.

CAUSES OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
   Urinary tract infections typically occur when the urinary tract becomes infected, usually by bacteria. The bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Although the urinary system is designed to keep out microscopic invaders, but these defenses do fail sometimes, usually when wiping your bottom or having sex, and then, bacteria may take hold and grow into a full-blown infection in the urinary tract. Fungi or viruses can also cause urinary tract infections.

TYPES OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
   The most common urinary tract infections occur mainly in women and affect the bladder and urethra.
1. Infection of the bladder (Cystitis): This type of urinary tract infection is usually caused by a type of bacteria commonly found in the urinary tract called Escherichia coli (E. coli). All women are at risk of cystitis because of their anatomy. Although sex may lead to cystitis, but you don't have to be sexually active to develop it.
2. Infection of the urethra (Urethritis): This type of urinary tract infection can occur when gastrointestinal bacteria spread from the anus to the urethra.
3. Infection of the kidneys (acute pyelonephritis)

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
   Symptoms of urinary tract infections depend on the part of the urinary tract that is infected.
  Lower UTIs are infection of the bladder (Cystitis) or urethra (Urethritis). Their symptoms include:
- A need to urinate more often than usual.
- A burning sensation or discomfort when urinating.
- Sudden urges to urinate.
- Increased frequency of urination with small amounts of urine.
- Strong-smelling urine.
- Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored.
- Feeling as though you're unable to empty your bladder fully.
- Urine that's cloudy or contains blood.
- Pelvic pain in women.
- Rectal pain in men.
  Upper UTIs are infections of the kidneys (Pyelonephritis). Their symptoms include:
- High fever
- Shivering and chills
- Pain in the upper back and sides
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Agitation or restlessness
- Confusion

RISK FACTORS OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
1. Gender- The femal anatomy, makes women more likely to get UTIs. A woman urethra is shorter than a man's and is closer to their anus (back passage), which shortens the distance that bacteria must travel to reach the bladder. However, UTIs in men are more serious.

2. Sexual activity- Sexually active women tend to have more UTIs than women who aren't sexually active. During sex, the pressure on the urinary tract  can move bacteria from the colon into the bladder.

3. Blockages in the urinary tract- Obstructions or blockages that make it difficult to empty the bladder can cause a UTI. They can be caused by kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.

4. Certain types of birth control- Women who use diaphragms for birth control may be at higher risk. Diaphragms put pressure on the urethra, which can decrease bladder emptying. Spermicides may cause skin irritation in some women and this increases the risk of bacteria entering into the bladder. Latex condoms can cause increased friction during sex which may also irritate the skin and increase the risk of UTI. However, condoms are important for reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

5. Urinary tract abnormalities- Babies born with urinary tract abnormalities that don't allow urine to leave the body normally or cause urine back up in the urethra have an increased risk of UTIs.

6. Menopause- After menopause, a decline of estrogen changes the normal
bacteria in the vagina. This can increase the risk of UTI.

7. Bathroom Hygiene-  The right way to wash or wipe after going to the bathroom is from front to back.Wiping from back to front can lead to a UTI. This motion drags bacteria from the rectal area towards the urethra.

8. A recent urinary procedure-  Urinary examination or surgery  of the urinary tract that involves medical instruments can increase the risk of developing a UTI.

9. A suppressed immune system- Some diesases like diabetes and HIV that impair the immune system can increase the risk of UTIs.

10. Catheter use- A urinary catheter is a tube in the bladder that is used to drain urine. It is usually used for people with neurological problems that can not control their ability to urinate, people who are hospitalized and people who are paralyzed who cannot urinate normally. Long term  use of bladder catheter can increase the risk of UTI. They make it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder.

TREATMENT OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION
   Urinary tract infections can be painful and uncomfortable, but usually pass within a few days and can be easily treated with antibiotics. They are normally treated with a short course of antibiotics. Lower UTIs can be treated with oral antibiotics, while upper UTIs are treated with intravenous antibiotics. Over-the-counter painkillers  can help with any pain. Drinking plenty of fluids may also help you feel better.

COMPLICATIONS OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION
   Urinary tract infections may be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions in older adults, and when left untreated, a UTI can have serious consequences. Complications may include:
1. Recurrent infections.
2. Permanent kidney damage.
3. Urethral narrowing (stricture) in men from recurrent urethritis.
4. Risk of delivering low birth weight or premature delivery in pregnant women.
5. Sepsis, a life-threatening  condition that can can cause dangerously low blood pressures, shock, and even death.

PREVENTION OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION
   For women who experience recurrent urinary tract infections they are some things you can try that can help prevent UTIs. These measures include:
- Emptying your bladder as soon as possible after having sex.
- Wiping from front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement.
- Going to the toilet as soon as you need to urinate. 
- Avoiding tight jeans and trouser
- Wearing underwear made from cotton, rather than synthetic material such as nylon.
- Taking showers instead of baths.
- Avoid using perfumed bubble bath, soap or talcum powder around your genitals.
- Cleaning your vaginal and rectal areas daily.
- Staying well hydrated by drinking six to eight glasses of water daily and drinking water after having sex.
- Not using a contraceptive diaphragm or condoms with spermicides on them.

MENSTRUATION FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

   Menstruation is something every woman has to deal with every month and believe me that time of the month is not fun. Although we’ve  gotten used to having it around, but we’re constantly looking for ways to make it a lot less annoying, and like sex most women still giggle or shy away from the idea of talking about them openly. We can't even call it for what it is, so we give periods many names like "Aunt Flo," "time of the month," "crimson wave" and all. Periods comes monthly but there are still so much we don't know about periods and men could stand to learn a little something as well.

1. Periods Can Make You Bleed From Other Parts Of Your Body
   "Vicarious Menstruation " is a medical condition, that causes bleeding from a surface other than the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity that occurs at the time when normal menstruation should take place. Women have reported bleeding from their mouths, eyes, ears, noses and even skin. It originally surfaced around the 1800s

2. Cramps are not normal.
   Having cramps during menstruation is not normal. It means that there might be something else going on, like high estrogen, too much sugar, which causes an inflammatory response or irritation as a result of a fibroid or cyst.

3. The Average Period Release Less Than A Cup Of Blood
   Although, everyone is different, but on average, women lose between a few tablespoons to about a cup of blood each month, depending on their flow

4. Menstrual Blood Is Real Blood
   Menstrual blood is actually no different from a cut on your knee or a nose bleed. The difference is that, since menstruation involves shedding the uterine lining after ovulation, there is some tissue as well.

5. Your Period Turns You Into A Shopoholic
   Women are more likely to go on a shopping spree few days before their periods begin. They go shopping to help deal with their Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

6. The Days Before Your Period Your Body Mimic Pregnancy
   Before your period begins, the body has already started preparing for pregnancy, so it secretes the hormones called progesterone that causes similar symptoms as being pregnant such as tender breast, acne, fluid retention, bloated feeling.

7. Some Menstrual Cramps Can Be As Painful As Early Labor
   Yes, labor pain is way worse.  But the worst menstrual cramps have been compared to very early labor pain.

8. Weight Matters
   Fat cells contribute to one-third of the estrogen levels in a woman, and without this estrogen, the body stops menstruating. So, what most women don't know is that when their body fat drops below 8-12 percent their period will cease. Inadequate nutrition and consumption of low calorie diets are mainly responsible for this.

9. Heavy Bleeding And Back Pain Is A Tell-Tale Sign
   Heavy bleeding and back pain could be sign of high estrogen levels. Estrogen is what is used for the uterus to contract. Lot of women have back pain during their period. There are natural ways to reduce estrogen levels.

10. It’s Not Just Bood You’re Losing
   A layer of the uterus is shed every 28 days or so, along with some blood vessels.

11. Your Sex Drive Is Higher When You Are On Your Period
   Your libido is higher during your period due to lower progesterone and estrogen hormone levels.

12. Men Are Less Attracted To You On Your Period
   Biologically speaking, a man's testosterone levels are influenced by a woman's scent, particularly when she is ovulating or at her peak of fertility.

13. You Are Born With All The Eggs You're Ever Going To Have
   At birth, women are born with 1 and 2 million immature eggs (or follicles) in their ovaries. Only about 400 ever mature, most of them die as they grow up.

14. Having Your Period Often Leads To Iron Deficiency
   Taking an iron supplement during menstruation is very important and helpful, because periods leads to iron deficiency and most of us do not have enough iron in our diet to keep up with the blood we lose during menstruation.

15. Sugar Cravings Mean More Than PreMenstrual Syndrome
   Progesterone helps to regulate blood sugars. Sugar cravings or carb cravings can be a sign that you are low on progesterone. It can easily be corrected with supplements.

16. You Can Exercise On Your Period
   As long as exercise isn't painful or causes you discomfort, you're free to go that extra mile.

17. Irregular Periods Are Caused By A Variety Of Factors
    While they can sometimes be a symptom of serious conditions, Irregular periods aren't always cause for alarm. They can also be caused by stress or extreme weight loss.

18. Insomnia Is A Sign
   Progesterone helps women to sleep. Lack of sleep usually happens if there isn’t enough progesterone. You can contact your doctor.

19. Your Period  Requires A LOT Of Tampons
   It's estimated that on average, a woman will use more than 11,000 tampons in her lifetime .

20. Your Cycle Can Last Anywhere From 21 To 32 Days
   Everyone is  different, some women can have long or short cycles. The same also goes for their periods, which can last anywhere from two to seven days.

21. Your Period Affects The Way Your Voice Sounds
   Vocal production is closely tied to our biology, Cells from the larynx and vagina are very similar and show similar hormone receptors.

22. You Don't need To Bleed Every Month If You're On Birth Control
   Some birth control methods like IUDs or certain types of pill can lighten or stop your period. Your uterus doesn't build up those extra hormones, eggs or tissue that would otherwise be discarded during your period.Studies have shown that, taking birth control on a regular basis can decrease your risk of ovarian cancer by 50 percent.

23. Early Puberty
  Girls are hitting puberty at earlier ages than ever before, Studies point to increase in obesity, low birth weights and stress.

24. Something’s Missing
   Amenorrhea is the absence of periods. This can be due to anatomy irregularities or physiological reasons, like stress or hormones. If you don’t get your period for more than three months at a time, you should be checked out by a doctor.

SIGNS THAT YOUR BODY LACKS WATER

Water makes up about two-thirds of your body weight, and a person cannot survive without water for more than a few days. It is important to keep your body hydrated because water helps the body in numerous ways. It is the easiest key to a healthy life. However, at times, the body may lose water more than usual due to vigorous physical activity, excessive sweating and frequent urination, and the body tends to function less efficiently then. Here are some signs that indicate the body lacks water.

1. Poor Concentration
   The human brain is made up of 90% water, it shows signs when dehydrated, because water is it's essential component. Lack of water in the brain  leads to poor concentration, it affect decision making, memory
and mood. The brain will work more slowly and it can cause difficulty focusing, thinking and communicating. Researchers found out that mildly dehydrated people performed worse on cognitive tasks and also reported
difficulty making decisions.  Adequate intake of water  during the day will make our brain function better and therefore our whole system will function better as well.

2. Dry skin
   Dry and scaly skin is another sign that your body lacks water. The elasticity and hydration depends on the amount of water you drink per day, because the skin requires a good amount of water to remain in good
condition. Dehydration causes the skin to be rough or crack. When the water level is low the skin sweat less, and it’s unable to clean the body from excess dirts, oil and toxins accumulated during the day. The sweating is the means through which the body cleanse itself, thereby reducing the risk of acne, pimples, wrinkles, eczema and psoriasis. It's not just about using a good skin moisturizer on the outside, also hydrate your skin from the inside out by drinking an adequate amount of water.

3. Increased Heart Rate
   Dehydration affects blood circulation and increases  heart rate. It makes the blood more viscous by reducing plasma volume. Lack of water also causes changes in electrolytes present in your body, leading to low blood pressure. Whenever you feel your heart is beating faster than usual, have a glass of water and take a few minutes.
  
4 Reduced Urination and Change in Color
   Going to the restroom every few hours is actually a good thing. It means that your body is throwing away all the toxins and that you have a healthy and regular urinary track system. A healthy amount of water intake results in regular urination. Since toxins from the body are released through urination, not urinating at regular intervals can be problematic. However, keep an eye on the color of your urine, because if the color of
your urine is dark, it indicates a poorly hydrated body. Proper urine should be clear or light colored,

5. Fatigue And Without Energy
   Feeling fatigued and lethargic, can be due to dehydrated body. Lack of water affects blood pressure and causes inadequate oxygen supply throughout the body, including the brain. Lack of oxygen causes fatigue,
sleepiness and reduced energy. Dehydration causes the body to work too hard to ensure proper blood circulation and even breath, therefore the body is functioning more slowly and you will feel tired all day. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to stay energized.

6. Frequent Headache And Lightheadedness
   Dehydration can cause insufficient oxygen flow and blood to the brain, which can result in a headache. A drop in the body's hydration level leads to a reduced amount of fluid surrounding your brain, which protects it from mild bumps and movement, which leads to headaches and migraines. Whenever you're suffering from a headache, reach for a glass of water instead of pills. If the headache is due to dehydration, it will go away soon.

7. Bad Breath and Dry Mouth
   Due to lack of water, your body produces less saliva, which contains antibacterial properties. Water functions as a lubricant and less water result in less saliva, which is very important against bad breath and bacteria in the mouth. Along with bad breath, dehydration can also cause dry mouth.

8. Constipation And Problems With The Digestive System
   Drinking water can help lubricate the digestive system and keep the
digestive tract flexible and clean. Water flushes out the toxins in the digestive system, thereby making it to function better. Lack of water in the body causes constipation, heartburn and poor bowel movements.

9. Food Cravings
   When dehydrated, the body sends mixed signals to your brain that you are hungry, when actually you are thirsty. Water can also help you kill the excessive desire for food and snacks. The next time you have hunger pangs or food cravings, drink a glass of water before grabbing a snack. When experiencing cravings for something sweet, reach for fruits like watermelon or berries that are sweet as well as high in water content.

10. Joint and Muscle Pain
   Water is a vital component of healthy joints and cartilage. When the body is well hydrated, the joints can handle sudden movements, such as running, jumping or falling without any pain. But, when the body lacks water, the bones start grinding against each other, causing pain in the joints. Also when fluids are lost through perspiration, muscles tends to contract leading to cramps.

Tips to Prevent Dehydration:
- Drink plenty of water and other fluids every day. The amount of water you need to drink usually depends on factors, such as the climate, how physically active you are, and your overall health.
- Carry your own water bottle.
-  Include water rich fruits and vegetables in your diet.
- Avoid drinks that can cause dehydration.
- If you are busy and often forget to drink water, set a reminder to drink a glass of water.

AUTISM

WHAT IS AUTISM
   Autism or autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that affects social, language and communication skills combined with rigid, repetitive behaviors. It is called a "spectrum" disorder because of it's range of symptoms and severity. It affects how a person interacts, acts and communicate with others, and also how they learn. It usually begins in childhood and lasts throughout a person's life. Autism decreases the individual's ability to communicate and emotionally relate to others and this makes it hard for them to express themselves through words, facial expressions, gestures and touch. People with autism may have restricted interests and repetitive behaviors, which can cause an impairment in social functioning and communication disturbances. They can be chatty or silent, affectionate or cold. It is a broad diagnosis, each child with autism is likely to have a unique pattern of behavior and level of severity from low functioning to high functioning. People with autism show uneven skill developments. They may have problems in certain areas such as communication skills, but have other exceptional skills such as solving math problems, art and creating music. For this reason, it can include people with high IQ's to lower than normal intelligence. This disorder may range from mild to severe. It can be an handicap that limits an individual, and can sometimes be a disability that may require institutional care. Autism occurs about four to five times more often in boys than girls. Family,income, lifestyle, or educational levels do not affect a child's chance of being autistic.

CAUSES
   The exact cause of autism spectrum disorder is not known, but research suggests that most cases of autism, appear to be caused by a combination of autism risk genes and environmental factors which influences early brain development.

SYMPTOMS
   Some children show signs of autism from birth. While other children may develop normally for the first few months or years, but then suddenly become withdrawn or even lose language skills they've already acquired.  Here are: Early Signs Of Autism In Babies to be on the lookout for.
1. Failure to mimic sounds or facial expressions by 9 months.
2. Fails to respond to his or her name.
3. Poor hand control.
4. Doesn't gesture, point or wave by 14 months.
5 Has poor eye contact and lacks facial expression.
6. Intense focus on one item.
7. Doesn't babble or coo by
7 Doesn't respond with a smile or happy expression by 6 months.
8. lack of back-and-forth play.
   Early symptoms may be interpreted as signs of a well-behaved baby     because they are quiet and undemanding.
Other Signs Of Autism
1. Repetitive, stereotyped body movements such as rocking, spinning or hand-flapping.
2. Doesn't say two-word phrases by 24 months.
3. Inability to speak, delayed speech, or loss of previous ability to say words or sentences.
4. Failure to recognize other people’s feelings or facial expressions.
5. Physical problems such as constipation, and poor sleeping.
6. Tendency to eat items that are not food.
7. Social communication, interaction and withdrawal.
8. Self-injurious behavior like head-banging.
9. Lack of empathy.
10. Poor coordination while running or climbing.
11. Inappropriately approaches a social interaction by being aggressive or disruptive.
12. Moves constantly and resistant to change.
13. Some children develop seizures.
14. Sensitivity to light, sound and touch.
15. Can't play interactively with other children.
16. Doesn't appear to understand simple questions or directions.
17. They may seem not to notice people, objects, or activities in their surroundings.
18. Resists cuddling and holding and seems to prefer playing alone .
20. Repeat words or phrases over and over (echolalia)
   Some children with autism become more engaged as they mature and show fewer disturbances in behavior and eventually may lead normal or near-normal lives. While others continue to have difficulty with language or social skills.

TYPES AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
There are three different types of Autism Spectrum Disorders:
1. Autistic Disorder Or Classic Autism- People with autistic disorder have intellectual disability. They usually lack social and communication skills, are speech impaired and have unusual behaviors and interests.

2. Asperger Syndrome-  People with Asperger syndrome  have some milder
symptoms of autistic disorder. They do not suffer from intellectual disability, however they might have social challenges and unusual behaviors and interests.

3. Pervasive Developmental Disorder Or Atypical Autism- These types meet some, not all of the criteria for autistic disorder or Asperger syndrome, The symptoms might cause only social and communication challenges. They have milder symptoms than autistic disorder.

RISK FACTORS
  Autism spectrum disorder affects children of all races but they are some  certain factors that increase a child's risk, they are:
1. Genetics- Children who have a sibling or parent with an autism spectrum disorder are at a higher risk of also having an autism spectrum disorder.
2. Medical conditions- It tend to occur in people who have certain other
medical conditions, such as Down syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, fragile X syndrome and other chromosomal disorders.
3. Drugs- Some harmful drugs taken during pregnancy have been linked
with a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder.
4. Sex of the child- Boys are about four to five times more likely to develop autism spectrum disorder than girls.
5. Parents' ages (Advance age).
6. Maternal illness during pregnancy .
7. Extremely preterm babies.
8. Certain difficulties during birth, particularly those involving periods of oxygen deprivation to the baby’s brain.

TREATMENT
   It's important to diagnosis autism very early, because while there is no cure for autism, intensive and early treatment can make a big difference. These treatments include therapies for behavior and communication, skills
training, and medicines to control symptoms. This will increase the child's ability to grow and learn new skills.
Research has also suggested that a woman can reduce her risk of having a child with autism by eating a diet rich in folic acid or taking prenatal vitamins containing folic acid (at least 600 mcg a day) during conception.