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Social media users claim berberine can lower blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and even promote weight loss. Some even say it could be a viable option for people who can’t access Ozempic or Wegovy. Is berberine really an effective weight loss supplement? Photo Illustration by Lecia Landis for Verywell Health; Getty Images Is Berberine Really ‘Nature’s Ozempic’? Its absolutely notnatures Ozempicand does not work like Ozempic, which is a GLP-1 inhibitor, Kroon said....

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a yellow-green citrus fruit that grows on the coast of southern Italy. The following article covers the benefits of bergamot, its nutrition, and other considerations. Mario Krpan / Getty Images What Is Bergamot? Mario Krpan / Getty Images Bergamot has traditionally been used to flavor food and to make scented deodorants and perfumes. Notable components (parts) of bergamot include the following: What Does Bergamot Smell Like? How Do You Use Bergamot?...

Thiamine must be consumed through diet or supplements. Beriberi is rare in the United States, as many foods are rich in thiamine. However, alcohol abuse, anorexia, and other conditions might increase your risk for a thiamine deficiency. Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Typically, Wernicke’sencephalopathypresents as a sudden state of confusion. Neurological symptoms associated with dry beriberi may or may not be present....

The gut microbiome bacteria help break down food for the body to use efficiently. Gut health is also linked to overall health. Approximately 70% of the body’s immune system is in the gut. Alberto Gagliardi / Getty Images Some foods we eatsuch as yogurt and whole grainscan help promote a healthy gut microbiome. Along with a mucosal layer, gut microbiota, and the immune system, these cells form thegut barrier. A rich, diverse microbiota is necessary to withstand external threats....

There are several factors that can compromise the effectiveness of your birth control. One of these is weight. Living with overweight or obesity can affect the absorption and metabolism of drugs and hormones. Saturn Stills / Science Photo Library / Getty Images Hormonal IUDs may also help reduce the risk ofendometrial cancerandhyperplasia, conditions patients with obesity are more susceptible to. It newer version is injected beneath the skin as opposed to in the muscle....

Talk with your healthcare provider about how to choose the best contraceptive options for your needs. Non-Hormonal Birth Control Some of the best birth control options with fewer side effects include non-hormonal methods. They also can be used for emergency contraception. PhotoAlto / Antoine Arraou / Getty Images Sponges also can be used. Spermicides Spermicides can be used with or without an inserted vaginal machine. They are available as foam, gels and creams, or tablets and suppositories....

Eating a healthy breakfast can reduce your blood sugar and help prevent spikes later in the day. Plus, you’ll set yourself up to make better meal choices throughout the rest of the day. For high-fiber breakfast options, try the following: Keep an eye on portions when planning a carb-centric meal. BURCU ATALAY TANKUT / Getty Images Your hands can serve as great visual tools. One serving of grains is usually 1/2 cup of dry grains, which generally fits in one cupped hand....

Antibiotics treat infections due to bacteria, not viruses. Stuffy Nose Congestion, or a stuffy nose, is a hallmark symptom of colds and flu. It’s triggered by swelling in the tissues that line your nasal passages. SDI Produtions / Getty Images Over-the-counter decongestants narrow the blood vessels in these tissues and decreaseinflammation. This helps air flow andmucusdrain. Decongestants come as pills, tablets, liquids, andnasal sprays. Oral decongestants include: Nasal sprays containoxymetazoline.They deliver relief directly to the nasal passages....

The key is to choose the right oil for your recipe. This article discusses the different types of cooking oils and the qualities of each. Enes Evren / Getty Images Types of Healthy Fat in Oils Heart-healthy oils containmonounsaturatedandpolyunsaturatedfats. Enes Evren / Getty Images Good sources of omega-3s includeflaxseed, canola, soybean, and walnut oils. Oils have different smoke points. So iscanola oil,which has a smoke point of up to 225 C (437 F)....

These may come in a variety of forms including syrups, lozenges, sprays, tablets, and capsules. This medication works best for dry coughs. There is one OTC antitussive approved for use in the United States calleddextromethorphan. Illustration by Alex Dos Diaz for Verywell Health It is most commonly sold as a syrup but can be found as capsules and lozenges. Guaifenesin is the only expectorant approved for use in the United States....

Diverticular diseaseis a common condition that occurs as people age. Outpouchings called diverticula develop in the colon but often dont cause symptoms. When they become inflamed, however, they lead to pain, bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea. simonkr / Getty Images They work by blocking the enzymes in the body that control inflammation, among other body processes. They can also have an effect on how blood clots. Common brand names include the OTC NSAIDs Advil, Motrin, Aleve, and Naprosyn....

Essential oils should never be ingested. The extracts contain therapeutic properties that may help improveerectile dysfunction. Cinnamon:This essential oil has been traditionally used to enhance sexual performance. Marc Tran / EyeEm / Getty Images Its major compound,cinnamaldehyde, promotes relaxation and supports smooth muscle function, potentially benefiting erectile health. Ginger:Ginger is a potent antioxidant with various health benefits, including potential support for male sexual health. Also, aromatherapy with lavender can reduce anxiety and boost mood, potentially supporting erectile function....

One of the hallmarksymptoms of COVID-19is its negative effect on your senses. People with COVID-19 frequently experience a loss of taste or smell and a diminished appetite. Unfortunately, maintaining a healthy diet is imperative to ensuring your immune system can effectively respond to the virus. SimpleImages / Getty Images This article will explain what to eat with COVID-19 and strategies for eating when you have no appetite. They also help you avoidchronic inflammation levelsas you recover from the illness....