Ever had an odor down there? Well, we’re actually talking about a different “down there.” Turns out your belly button can harbor some unpleasant aromas. Time to solve the mystery of your slightly smelly belly button so you can be a happier, fresher you.
SeventyFour/Getty Images
Causes
The most common cause of a smelly belly button is that, much like a dorm room, it hasn’t been properly cleaned in a while. But an odd smell from your belly button could be a sign of a more serious condition that needs medical attention.
Let’s (gently) dig into some of the reasons for that odd odor coming from your belly button.
Improper hygiene
Your belly button isn’t just proof that you once had an umbilical cord. It’s a tiny little biome that doesn’t get a lot of fresh air and can harbor all sorts of grimy sweat, dead skin cells, dirt, and bacteria. If you don’t regularly clean out your belly button, that gunk will build up and thrive in the deep folds, especially if you have an innie.
Infection
Let’s be candid about candida, a common yeast found on our skin. It’s usually harmless, but watch out when this little demon lives for too long in the warm and moist conditions of your belly button. If left unchecked, you could develop a smelly fungal infection that could turn into a condition called candida intertrigo.
PSA: Definitely seek medical attention if you see a rash, blisters, or pus-like discharge.
Epidermoid and pilar cysts
Belly button odor might also result from a cyst.
Epidermoid cysts are painless little bumps under your skin, often plugged up with a blackhead, that can ooze a foul-smelling yellowish discharge if they rupture.
Pilar cysts only affect about 1 in 10 people and grow slowly from a blocked hair follicle. They’re usually found in the scalp but can also form in the belly button and give off an unpleasant smell if they break open.
Sebaceous cysts
Like pilar cysts, sebaceous cysts are related to the small ducts that provide our hair and skin with the natural oils that keep them healthy and hydrated. When one of those ducts gets injured or plugged up, a cyst can form under the skin that looks and acts somewhat like an epidermoid.
Since those ducts appear all over our body, sebaceous cysts can grow anywhere, including the inside of your belly button. They’re usually harmless and odorless but can become irritated and ooze stinky pus if they become infected.
How to clean your belly button
The best way to keep the grime out of your belly button and help any cysts from getting infected is to adopt a very simple hygiene routine:
Use soap to gently clean your belly button on a regular basis, just as you do for your armpits or other areas of your body.
Avoid moisturizing your belly button. More moisture just adds fuel for any crud in your belly button to get even cruddier.
Dry that belly button thoroughly! If you have a serious innie, feel free to gently use a cotton swab to get into your little Marianas Trench.
When to contact a doctor
If you notice that your belly button becomes red, swollen, or tender to the touch, make sure to seek immediate medical attention. This could be a sign of something more serious. If you have cysts, leave them alone. Don’t pick! Your doctor or healthcare provider will walk you through treatment options.
Takeaway
If your belly button gives off a mysterious odor, it’s probably because it needs a deep cleaning. Your belly button is basically a tiny, forgotten biome that, in the right conditions, can throw a fungal fiesta with a cystic surprise.
To keep your belly button odor-free, follow a simple hygiene routine: shower your navel with soapy TLC (but not too aggressively), skip the moisturizer, and ensure it’s as dry as possible. And remember, if your belly button starts showing signs of redness, swelling, or tenderness, don’t hesitate to call a doctor ASAP.
Read the full article here:
https://greatist.com/health/why-do-belly-buttons-smell
Which comes first, the cardio or the weights? TBH, neither route has been proven to be definitively better than the other. They both come with unique benefits.
For the most part, research suggests strength first is best for muscle growth and fat loss, while cardio first is legit for endurance gains. Here’s what to know.
We Are/Getty Images
Is it better to do cardio before or after weights?
According to fitness expert Jonathon Ross of A.C.E. Fitness, if your goal is:
strength training first builds lean muscle mass that continues to burn cals, even at rest
doing strength first ensures you don’t burn up energy needed to max out muscle gains
doing cardio first may improve max oxygen uptake (VO2 max), a key metric of endurance
Though this is still speculation at this point, it may be worth trying and gauging your results, whether via a fitness watch or journaling.
Why do cardio before weightlifting?
Pros recommend always doing at least a 5-min cardio sesh before weights.
But doing a full cardio sesh before weights also may come with the following benefits:
Warms it up. Doing cardio first boosts blood flow, warming up the muscles and reducing injury risk.
Aids endurance. Training for that marathon? If you’re prioritizing endurance, kicking off your workout with cardio will help max wins.
Weight loss. Although most pros say to do cardio first to shed pounds, another study suggests that cardio is more legit for weight loss than strength training overall. But a combo of both cardio and strength seems best for keeping weight off.
Why do weightlifting before cardio?
Why pump iron before you cardio? (Just don’t forget that warm-up!)
Here’s what the research says:
More gains, less pain. A 2017 ACE-commissioned study suggests that doing cardio after strength led to a heart rate 12 beats per minute higher for the same workout intensity and duration. So, theoretically, if you wanted to bulk up, doing strength first would potentially mean you could use the same time and energy for greater gains.
More energy for fat burn and muscle gain. According to an older study, doing strength before cardio boosts lipid levels during exercise compared to just cardio alone. Increased free fatty acids and glycerol stores mean more fat is available to use as fuel, greater fat burn, and greater muscle performance.
Cardio and strength training tips
For optimal health benefits, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults do:
At least 150–300 mins of moderate-intensity or 150 mins vigorous physical activity/week
At least two days of strength training for all major muscle groups/week
If you’re meeting at least guidelines, congrats – you’re among the estimated 1 in 5 people who does.
To make the most of your weekly fitness routine, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Amp up the challenge.Increase weight, reps, and cardio expenditure gradually over time to continually max gains.
Rest up to level up. Do short sets with long recovery periods (2-5 mins) for increased strength. Wanna bulk up? Shorter rest periods (20 secs-1 min) between sets maxes muscle.
Track your wins. You don’t need a fancy fitness tracker (although those are pretty great, too). A fitness diary or app can help you track and customize your routine.
Work with a pro. Coming up with a perf fitness routine on your own takes some trial and error. A personal trainer can do a lot to help you fig out *exactly* what works for you. No one nearby? Book someone online.
Takeaway
In general, studies indicate that prioritizing strength training is optimal for achieving muscle growth and fat loss. Meanwhile, beginning with cardio is effective for enhancing endurance gains.
Read the full article here:
https://greatist.com/health/should-you-do-cardio-before-or-after-weights
Ever since the popularization of frozen yogurt in the leg-warming, jazzercising 1980s, folks have been touting this soft-serve desert as a healthier alternative to ice cream. But froyo isn’t quite the same thing as sticking a tub of plain yogurt in the freezer — so is it really all that healthy?
We’ve got the scoop on the pros and cons of froyo and how it compares to ice cream.
Irrin0215/Getty Images
Frozen yogurt nutrients
Just note that nutrition can vary a lot by brand, flavor, and any toppings you add.
Lower in calories and saturated fat than ice cream
Unless your froyo is packed with chocolate pieces, capped off with a butterscotch shell, or otherwise heavily decorated, it’s likely to contain fewer calories, fat, and saturated fat than ice cream. This is because ice cream generally starts with, well, cream. In fact, for ice cream to earn its name, it has to have at least 10% milk fat. (It’s a federal law!)
Frozen yogurt, on the other hand, has no such specifications. It can begin with any type of milk. Some manufacturers create theirs with skim milk, others with whole milk, and others with a mixture of different milk fat percentages. That’s why its calories, fat, and saturated fat tend to be relatively low.
May contain probiotics
Not every brand of froyo is rich in probiotics (the good bacteria that promote a healthy gut) — but some do contain them. To be sure you’re getting some beneficial gut bugs, look for the words “live and active cultures” on frozen yogurt packaging. The probiotics in yogurt have been linked with benefits like better digestive health, cardiovascular health, immunity, and bone health.
That said, there’s some debate about how many bacteria survive the processing and freezing required to make froyo. Some studies show that probiotics hold up well under these conditions, but others indicate that probiotic content decreases significantly.
Contains calcium
Calcium content is the cherry on top. A 1/2 cup serving of frozen yogurt offers 103 mg of calcium, which is 8% of the Daily Value (DV). This is good news since a) it’s delicious and b) getting enough calcium is associated with healthier bones, among other health perks.
Frozen yogurt vs. ice cream
At the end of the day, we all wanna know: If you choose frozen yogurt over ice cream, are you doing your health a solid? (Or, um, a semi-solid?)
In multiple important categories, frozen yogurt does outshine its creamier cousin.
Compared to vanilla ice cream, the same amount of vanilla froyo contains
fewer calories
less fat
less saturated fat
Even the calcium content of froyo is higher than ice cream. And whereas frozen yogurt may provide you with some gut-friendly live and active cultures, the same can’t be said for ice cream.
Flavors and added ingredients
The thing to keep in mind, though, is that nutrition seriously varies by brand and flavor. Some frozen yogurts may contain vastly more added sugars than some ice creams, not to mention extra calories and fat from mix-ins like chocolate, cheesecake bites, or Oreo pieces. Extra gums and thickeners in frozen yogurt can also be a concern since they add an extra layer of food processing.
Takeaway
Like many food comparisons, the frozen yogurt-versus-ice cream one isn’t as simple as it might seem. When you want a cold and creamy treat, mindfully enjoying a small portion of minimally processed ice cream might be a better choice than downing a large froyo confection with gummy bears and chocolate sauce. On the other hand, at a basic level, frozen yogurt generally has a better nutrition profile than ice cream.
The choice is yours — so grab a spoon and enjoy!
Read the full article here:
https://greatist.com/health/is-frozen-yogurt-healthy
Your vagina is prime real estate with many essential duties. So, paying attention is crucial when you feel an uncomfortable twinge down there. Yeast infections, endometriosis pain, vulval irritation, STIs, and other unwanted discomforts can disrupt your southern areas.
If you own a hoo-ha, it’s crucial to be a vigilant guardian and understand the symptoms and causes of vaginal pain and when it’s time to get the doc involved. Continue reading as we explore potential reasons for downstairs discomfort.
Megan Madden
1. Sex
Sex can be a double-edged sword, bringing both pleasure and pain. Vaginal pain during or after bedroom play can be due to a lack of natural lubrication, too much friction, or underlying conditions like infections or tense muscles.
If you’re experiencing pain after sex, it’s time to put on your detective hat and figure out what’s causing the ruckus down there. It could be as simple as trying a different lube or changing your positions. But if the pain sticks around, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional.
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue resembling the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows where it doesn’t belong. This abnormal tissue can cause pain, inflammation, scarring, and adhesions in the pelvic region, leading to severe menstrual cramps and pain during intercourse.
3. Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia causes uncomfortable sensations of burning, stinging, or sharp pain in the vulva and vagina, especially after sex.
The exact cause is a bit of a head-scratcher despite it being a common condition affecting up to 16% of vagina owners. Unfortunately, that makes it tricky to diagnose and could involve many other tests to rule out other conditions.
4. Bartholin’s cyst
The Bartholin’s glands sit on either side of the entrance to the vagina and provide that all-important natural lubrication.
If a gland becomes blocked, a cyst can form. At first, it might feel like a tiny bump or even a rebellious zit. However, if left unchecked, these little troublemakers can swell up and become infected, resulting in pain that’s nothing short of excruciating. So, don’t ignore those warning signs and get it checked!
5. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
The vajayjay is usually home to a squad of good bacteria that protect the pH balance, keeping things in perfect harmony. But things like sex and periods can sometimes disrupt the vaginal pH balance, making it easier for “bad” bacteria to outnumber the good ones.
The result? BV can develop, causing itching, discomfort, and a watery discharge that smells fishy.
6. Pelvic floor problems
The pelvic floor muscles support the bowel, bladder, uterus, and vagina. If they’re damaged, you may experience pain in your vag, tummy, and back and other unwelcome symptoms.
Pregnancy, injuries from childbirth, trauma, and the natural passage of time can increase your odds of experiencing these pelvic floor issues. However, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, and medications can help.
7. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and the infamous herpes are the unwelcome party guests you never invited but somehow ended up at the shindig anyway. They bring along a whole bag of tricks — itching, burning, unusual discharge, lumps, bumps, and worse — that can seriously disrupt the delicate balance of your southern parts.
Showing STIs the exit ASAP is crucial to prevent lasting health issues. If you suspect you could have one, it’s time to call your healthcare professional. And there’s no shame. Peeps acquire more than 1 million STIs every day!
8. Vaginal Dryness
A dry vag is like trying to ride a bicycle with square wheels – uncomfortable and far from the smooth journey you’d hope for. Without that natural lubrication, your vulva and vagina can feel uncomfy, and you can develop micro-tears in the delicate tissues down there. Ouch!
One primary culprit here is hormonal changes, which can happen at various points in your life. Menopause, in particular, has a knack for playing tricks on your body. As your hormone levels go on a rollercoaster ride, the result can be a noticeable decrease in natural lubrication.
9. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is a sneaky troublemaker that creeps in through untreated infections, especially those from STIs. When PID makes itself at home in your pelvic region, it can lead to severe pelvic pain, including vaginal and vulval pain. It’s not just a one-time inconvenience — PID can have long-term consequences if not addressed promptly.
When to see a doctor
If you’re experiencing pain down there, when is it time to put on your grown-up pants and seek some professional advice? If you’ve got persistent or severe vaginal pain, unusual symptoms like itching, burning, funky odors, or noticeable lumps and bumps, alarm bells should ring.
Furthermore, if Aunt Flo becomes irregular or unusually heavy or painful, or sex hurts, don’t just grin and bear it. Your doctor can help.
Takeaway
There’s a long list of conditions that can cause uncomfortable crotch symptoms, including STIs, cysts, dryness, and overly enthusiastic sex. But no matter the cause, if you’re concerned, reach out to the pros. After all, keeping your privates happy and pain-free should be a top priority.
Read the full article here:
https://greatist.com/health/why-do-i-feel-uncomfortable-down-there
Lubricant is the secret sauce that turns a good time into an unforgettable one.
Water and silicone-based lubes are versatile and condom-safe. However, steer clear of oil-based lubes when using anything latex. If you’re in a, ahem, tight spot, you could even grab plain yogurt or aloe vera!
Lubes come in a dazzling array of formulations, colors, and flavors. And while variety is the spice of life, remember that not all lubes are created equal. It’s essential to find the right partner in crime. So, let’s take a closer look at the primary players in this slippery game.
Water-based lubricants
Water-based lubes are the Swiss Army knife of the lubricant world — they play well with condoms and sex toys, making them a popular choice. Cleanup is a breeze, so you won’t have to worry about post-pleasure laundry sessions. Plus, they’re generally gentle on sensitive skin, ensuring a comfy experience.
That said, for those marathon sessions, you might need to reapply, and some folks may find they feel sticky compared to other lubes.
Silicone-based lubricants
Ah, the marathon runners of lubricants! Silicone-based lubes are incredibly slippery, making them the go-to choice for extended play that keeps the passion flowing.
They’re not shy about getting wet either — perfect for steamy shower and bath encounters. Plus, they’ve got your back if you have sensitive skin, thanks to their hypoallergenic nature.
But, although safe with condoms and latex, these lubes don’t play nicely with silicone-based sex toys. And while silicone-based lubes are long-lasting, they can be tricky to remove when it’s cleanup time.
Oil-based lubricants
Oil-based lubricants may contain synthetic or natural oils like coconut, almond, or sunflower seed oil. These lubes provide a wonderfully smooth glide that lasts, optimizing those intimate moments of pleasure.
That said, they don’t see eye-to-eye with latexcondoms, gloves, or diaphragms. They can be a bit of a party pooper, weakening the latex and reducing its effectiveness. Plus, they can get a tad messy and potentially leave their mark on your fave sheets.
Lubricant alternatives to use
Light on the lube? No problem. Here are some handy alternatives you may have at home:
Olive oil. A kitchen staple that can double as a natural lubricant for added slip and slide in the heat of the moment. Just remember, it’s not compatible with latex.
Virgin coconut oil. Need a delightfully smooth glide that also tastes great? Reach for the coconut oil. Again, steer clear of latex if you choose this option.
Plain yogurt. Perhaps not the most obvious choice, but it could work! It’s cheap and cheerful, and peeps say it does the job.
PSA: External factors like lubricants can put your vaginal health at risk, leading to vaginitis. Also, to avoid complications, check with your partner about any allergies before using certain lubes. Stay informed and prioritize your well-being!
Lubricant alternatives to avoid
Even though you can find suitable lube alternatives at home, there are some options you should absolutely avoid. Here’s a rundown:
Petroleum jelly. Vaseline and similar products can play havoc with latex condoms, reducing their effectiveness and perhaps leaving you with an unplanned surprise! Also, according to a 2013 study, using Vaseline as lube could increase your risk of developing bacterial vaginosis.
Soap or shampoo. Using these bathroom staples as makeshift lubes can throw off your natural pH balance, potentially causing irritation and discomfort.
Whipped cream or butter. While it may sound fun, introducing food into the mix can be problematic. Traces of dairy products could go rancid and trigger infections in your delicate areas, which doesn’t exactly scream fun time.
Baby oil. This mineral oil can spell trouble with latex condoms, increasing the risk of breakage and making sex more stressful than you bargained for. Additionally, a 2016 study found a link between using baby oil as lube and higher rectal infection rates in men who have sex with men.
Takeaway
In the quest for the ideal lubricant, remember that it’s a journey of self-discovery that might involve some trial and error. Embrace the adventure and have some fun along the way!
However, never compromise on safety. Avoid anything that could pose health concerns, especially regarding latex compatibility. The right lube is out there, waiting to enhance your intimate moments, so explore, experiment, and enjoy.
Read the full article here:
https://greatist.com/health/what-can-i-use-as-lube
