ICYMI… here’s part 1!
It’s as easy as going to the gym or your local Wholefoods to be inundated with ways to keep fit and healthy, all the latest health hacks and popular cure-all foods. Sometimes it seems like either everything is healthy or nothing is healthy. That’s why I thought it would be a good idea to find some advice that is more off the beaten track. Something backed by science, and not part of the latest diet trend or fitness model’s personal motto. Here are 5 more of my favorite and slightly awkward tips for staying on top of your health.
- Use the First Stall: After analyzing 51 public restrooms, experts found that the stall closest to the restroom door consistently had the lowest bacteria levels (and the most toilet paper!). The first stall probably sees less traffic because it’s near the door and people want privacy. And when you’re finished, stand before you flush. When toilets are flushed, a fine mist of water containing contagious bacteria sprays up. You can catch intestinal bugs and hepatitis from it.
- Cure Claustrophobia with Apples: If you get claustrophobic in small spaces such as subways, elevators, and that closet of an office they stuck you in, pay more attention to the old saying “an apple a day”. A sniff of green apple may help relieve claustrophobic sensations. Carry one with you. Also, if you’re selling your house, placing a basket of fresh green apples on the table may make potential buyers perceive the house as larger.
- Ditch the Antibacterial Soap: There’s absolutely no reason to buy antibacterial soaps, according to the American Medical Association. While close to 50 percent of soaps sold in the States contain antimicrobial agents, the AMA claims there’s no solid scientific proof that these soaps are better at preventing infection than regular soap. In fact, these soaps could be making bacteria stronger.
- Flush Your Stress Away: It may sound weird, but flushing a toilet can be downright therapeutic. Before you go to bed, put some small strips of flushable paper and a pencil in the bathroom. The following morning, take a seat and write down the names of all the people or situations in your life that are causing you angst. Then throw them in the bowl and flush. You’ll be amazed at how great this feels and works.
- Cut Yourself? Call Dr. Pepper: Next time you nick yourself in the kitchen, reach for the black pepper. Run cold water over the wound to clean it, using soap if you were handling meat. Then sprinkle on the pepper and apply pressure. In no time, the bleeding will stop. Turns out, black pepper has analgesic, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.
