Updates from Maria Custode

What are the 4 major causes of High Blood Pressure?

What are the 4 major causes of High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure is a condition that affects millions of women all over the world. Despite the fact that it's a prevalent condition, most women don't know the causes, symptoms, and risks associated with it. High blood pressure can result in heart disease, stroke, and other severe health complications. Therefore, it's vital to keep your blood pressure in check, and to do so, you need to know what causes high blood pressure. In this blog post, we'll discuss four significant causes of high blood pressure in women.

Obesity and Lack of Physical Activity

Obesity and lack of physical activity are the two most prevalent causes of high blood pressure in women. When you carry excess weight, your heart has to work more to pump blood throughout your body, which leads to higher blood pressure. Additionally, inactivity and lack of exercise can negatively impact your vascular system, causing it to work poorly and resulting in high blood pressure.

Prevention: Maintaining a healthy body weight, eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and living an active lifestyle can help prevent high blood pressure caused by obesity and lack of physical activity.

Genetics

Another major cause of high blood pressure is genetics, with heredity being a significant factor in blood pressure levels. If one or both of your parents have a history of high blood pressure, there's a high chance that you'll develop the condition as well.

Prevention: Getting regular blood pressure checks, leading a healthy lifestyle, and managing other aspects of your health will enable you to reduce the effects of inherited high blood pressure.

Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and alcohol consumption are known causes of high blood pressure in women. Smoking damages your blood vessels and makes them narrower, leading to high blood pressure. The excessive consumption of alcohol raises your blood pressure and can also cause long-term damage to your heart and blood vessels.

Prevention: Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to prevent high blood pressure caused by smoking and alcohol.

Stress

Stress is the most common cause of high blood pressure in women. Stress hormones, such as cortisol, are released in high quantities during periods of stress, which increases your blood pressure.

Prevention: Exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and other stress-reduction methods can help you manage stress and prevent high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a severe health condition that can lead to severe health problems if left unmanaged. Understanding the causes of high blood pressure is the first step in preventing and managing the condition. Maintaining a healthy body weight, regular physical activity, controlled use of alcohol, and not smoking can help lower high blood pressure. Even if genetics plays a part in causing high blood pressure, making lifestyle modifications can reduce the effect and severity of inherited high blood pressure. Additionally, treating anxiety and managing tension through yoga or medication may benefit women who are more vulnerable because of stress. With proper treatment of high blood pressure, women can sustain a happy and healthy life.


A free class on Stress Management can be found here.

You can monitor your blood pressure at home with a blood pressure monitor for home use.

Here’s the link to what I use to support healthy heart function.


Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to lose 7-15 lbs and reduce inflammation. 

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Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

The Best Diet to Get Rid of Arthritis – A Comprehensive Guide

The Best Diet to Get Rid of Arthritis – A Comprehensive Guide
Arthritis is a widespread condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in one or more joints. Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis, and people often rely on medication to relieve the symptoms. However, studies have shown that certain dietary changes can help to reduce inflammation and improve joint health, making them an essential aspect of arthritis management. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the best diet to get rid of arthritis and provide tips to help you incorporate these changes into your lifestyle.


Anti-inflammatory Foods:
The first step towards following a healthy diet for arthritis is to focus on anti-inflammatory foods. These foods can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is a significant contributor to arthritis. Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, are excellent choices. Additionally, green leafy vegetables, colorful fruits and vegetables, and spices such as ginger and turmeric are also highly recommended.

Avoiding Trigger Foods:
In addition to incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, it's essential to avoid trigger foods that can increase inflammation. Common trigger foods include processed foods, sugary drinks, fried foods, grains, legumes, alcohol, and red meat. These foods contain high levels of saturated and trans fat, which can contribute to inflammation and pain in the joints.

Plant-Based Diet:
The benefits of a plant-based diet can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, making it an excellent choice for those struggling with arthritis. Evidence suggests that a plant-based diet can help to reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Switching to a plant-based diet can also help to improve gut health and reduce the risk of other inflammatory diseases such as heart disease.

Mediterranean Diet:
The Mediterranean diet is one of the best diets for getting rid of arthritis. This diet is rich in anti-inflammatory foods that can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. A Mediterranean diet is characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins such as fish and poultry.

Importance of Hydration:
Lastly, it's essential to stay hydrated when following a healthy diet for arthritis. Drinking plenty of water can help to flush out toxins from the body and reduce inflammation. It can also help to keep the joints lubricated and prevent further damage. I found this water bottle to help me stay hydrated and on track!


In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all diet for arthritis management. However, incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, avoiding trigger foods, and following a plant-based or Mediterranean diet can help to reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. Remember it's essential to stay hydrated and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best diet for your specific condition. By making these dietary changes, you'll be taking the first step towards improving your joint health and managing your arthritis.

I found this water bottle to help me stay hydrated and on track!

Here is the link to what I use to manage my inflammation.

Get my free guide "3 ways to reduce inflammation" ! (Includes free Pain Relieving Rollerball Recipe)

Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to reduce pain and inflammation

#paidlinks


Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

What drinks are good for arthritis? Keep your joints healthy and pain-free with these beverages.

What drinks are good for arthritis? Keep your joints healthy and pain-free with these beverages.
 Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making daily activities more challenging due to joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. While there are medications and treatments available to manage arthritis, many people also explore natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms. One such remedy is drinking specific types of beverages that are beneficial for joint health. In this post, we will discuss some drinks that are good for arthritis.


Green tea: Green tea is a popular beverage that has many benefits for the body, including anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that drinking green tea regularly can help reduce joint pain, inflammation, and swelling, which are common symptoms of arthritis. Green tea also contains antioxidants that can protect the joints from damage.

Ningxia Red:  Contains the Wolfberry.  The Wolfberry has been found to be one of the most nutrient- and protein-dense foods on the planet. In addition to the Wolfberry, NingXia Red is infused with Orange, Lemon, Tangerine, and Yuzu Essential Oils, which includes the powerful component, d-limonene.  It also contains Blueberries, Cherries, Pomegranates, Plums, Grapefruit Seed Extract, and Aronia Berries (which contain the highest antioxidant level of any berry). We need the antioxidants found in this supplement to fight off free radicals.  Oxidative stress results when free radicals are allowed to run rampant in our bodies. This can cause damage eventually leading to many chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, heart attacks, cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammation, stroke, aging, and other degenerative diseases.  Ningxia Red is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and drinking Ningxia Red can help alleviate arthritis symptoms. Recent studies have shown that Ningxia Red can significantly reduce inflammation and pain in people with osteoarthritis. Ningxia Red is also a good source of antioxidants that help protect the joints.

Ginger tea: Ginger has been used for centuries to treat various conditions, including arthritis. Drinking ginger tea regularly can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain. Ginger contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols that have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve joint mobility.

Turmeric tea: Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine and has many potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking turmeric tea can help reduce joint pain and inflammation in people with arthritis. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric that provides its anti-inflammatory effects.


Water: Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, including joint health. Drinking enough water can help flush toxins from the body and keep joints lubricated, which can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Dehydration can cause joints to become dry and stiff, making them more susceptible to damage.  I found this water bottle to help me stay hydrated and on track!


 While there is no cure for arthritis, incorporating these drinks into your diet can help manage symptoms and keep joints healthy. Green tea, Ningxia Red, ginger tea, turmeric tea, and water are all excellent choices for promoting joint health and reducing inflammation. Remember to always consult with your doctor before starting any natural remedies or making significant changes to your diet. Stay healthy, stay hydrated, and take care of your joints!

Here is the link to what I use to manage my inflammation.

Get my free guide "3 ways to reduce inflammation" ! (Includes free Pain Relieving Rollerball Recipe)

Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to reduce pain and inflammation

#paidlinks


Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

What food helps arthritis pain go away?

What food helps arthritis pain go away?
Are you struggling with arthritis pain? It can be excruciating and debilitating, especially when it flares up. But did you know that certain foods can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best foods to eat if you have arthritis and explain how they work to relieve your symptoms.

Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that eating fatty fish can help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with arthritis. Aim for at least two servings of fatty fish per week to reap the benefits.

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Adding turmeric to your diet can help reduce inflammation in your joints and alleviate arthritis pain. You can use turmeric in your cooking or take it as a dietary supplement.

Ginger
Ginger is another spice that has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in people with arthritis. It contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory functions. You can add fresh or powdered ginger to your food or drink ginger tea to enjoy its benefits.

Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is loaded with nutrients like vitamins C and K, calcium, and sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help slow down the progression of osteoarthritis. Incorporate broccoli into your diet by adding it to salads, stir-fries, or roasting it as a side dish.

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. They also contain other nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which are beneficial for people with arthritis. Eating nuts and seeds regularly can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve joint health.

While there is no magic cure for arthritis, incorporating these arthritis-friendly foods into your diet can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve joint health. Try adding some of these foods to your meals and snacks and see if you notice a difference in your arthritis symptoms. Remember to always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet. Here’s to your health and wellbeing!

Here is the link to what I use to manage my inflammation.

Get my free guide "3 ways to reduce inflammation" ! (Includes free Pain Relieving Rollerball Recipe)

Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to reduce pain and inflammation

#paidlinks



Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Why Does Inflammation Get Worse at Night?

Why Does Inflammation Get Worse at Night?
Inflammation is a common issue that affects many aspects of health, particularly for women, and interestingly, it tends to worsen at night. This nighttime increase in inflammation is partly due to the body's circadian rhythm and the natural drop in cortisol levels during the evening, which can exacerbate inflammation. Additionally, factors like poor sleep quality and the physical stress of being in a prone position for long durations can further increase inflammation.

Diet and lifestyle choices play a significant role in managing nighttime inflammation. Consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, such as fatty fish, walnuts, berries, and leafy greens, can help combat inflammation. It's also crucial to avoid inflammatory triggers like sugary or processed foods and caffeine or alcohol before bedtime, as these can disrupt sleep and worsen inflammation.

To effectively reduce inflammation and improve overall health, focusing on sleep quality and stress management is key. Creating a conducive sleep environment, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and engaging in activities like yoga or meditation can significantly diminish inflammation. By understanding the factors that exacerbate inflammation at night and implementing strategies to address these, one can promote better health and mitigate the risk of chronic conditions.
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Meet Maria Custode

 


For years, I was running on empty—long hours, low energy, poor sleep, and a body that just wasn’t responding the way it used to.
I finally realized… it wasn’t about trying harder. It was about supporting my body differently.

Now, I focus on what actually works:
more energy, better sleep, less inflammation, and a lifestyle I can sustain.
And I help other women over 40 do the same—without extremes or quick fixes.

Because this chapter isn’t about slowing down…
it’s about finally feeling like yourself again.

If you’re feeling off or stuck, I’m always happy to share what’s been working for me 💛



Medical Disclaimer The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.


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