A WHIFF OF WELLNESS FRAGRANT PATHS TO CLARITY, COMFORT, AND CALM
A simple scent can do more than brighten a room. Fragrances can lift your mood, ease tension, and even help you sleep better. For older adults managing chronic pain, sleepless nights, or everyday stressors, aromatherapy offers a gentle, natural boost that works alongside your regular wellness plan. SIGNALING IN THE BRAIN When a scent reaches your nose, it sends a quick message to the brain’s emotional and memory centers, also known as the limbic system. That direct pathway helps explain why a single whiff can lift your spirits, calm an anxious moment, or trigger a comforting memory. Bright citrus scents can perk you up, while lavender often calms a restless mind.
can encourage the release of feel-good hormones, easing your discomfort. Studies show inhaled oils may provide mild relief for chronic pain, making them a soothing addition to your wellness toolkit. STARTING SAFELY • Always dilute: Combine 6–10 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil, such as coconut or grapeseed oil, to prevent skin irritation.
guaranteed for everyone, many older adults report feeling mentally sharper or more at ease after using familiar, pleasant scents in their homes. FINDING RELIEF THROUGH FRAGRANCE For those having trouble sleeping, lavender has been linked to deeper, more restful sleep. For maximum effect, try a simple massage with a diluted oil before bed, allowing the scent to settle in both through your skin and the air around you.
•
Never ingest oils: Concentrated oils can be toxic if swallowed.
• Check with your doctor. Especially if you take medications or have skin sensitivities. Aromatherapy can be a simple and delightful addition to your daily wellness routine. With a little experimentation, the right scents can lift your mood, ease tension, and add a touch of joy to everyday moments. A few mindful breaths could be all it takes to feel more centered, alert, and at peace. THE HIGH COST OF CAFFEINE Sadly, these figures go hand-in-hand with increased health risks associated with energy drinks and other high-caffeine products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that it has received reports linking energy drink consumption to heart rhythm abnormalities, high blood pressure, and convulsions. From 2022–2023, America’s Poison Centers (a group representing more than 50 poison centers nationwide) reported a 24.2% increase in caffeine-related health emergencies among children and teens, with nearly 80% caused by unintentional exposure. In addition to the aforementioned heart and blood pressure problems, typical side effects of high caffeine exposure include dehydration, insomnia, and restlessness. THE BOTTOM LINE If you’re looking for a lift during the day, skip the energy drinks and build up your energy levels through lifestyle and nutritional changes. Please contact us for strategies that can help you feel more energetic without relying on caffeine and sugar to fuel your life.
SHARPENING YOUR MIND Some research has linked regular,
gentle exposure to certain aromas with improvements in attention and memory, especially when people make it part of their nightly routine. While results aren’t
While aromatherapy won’t cure pain, inhaling or gently massaging essential oils
stores, convenience stores, and gas stations nationwide, generating over $25 billion in annual revenue. Analysts predict that this sales figure will double within the next seven years. THE SPARK BEHIND THE SURGE Of course, the most significant selling point behind energy drinks is their inherently high caffeine content. And high it is. A Consumer Reports study of 27 different energy drinks revealed that some contained as much as 242 milligrams of caffeine per serving. To put that into perspective, a 12-ounce Coca-Cola contains 50 milligrams, and 5–8 ounces of coffee contains approximately 100 milligrams. Additionally, it’s worth noting that some canned energy drinks contain more than a single serving, resulting in a significantly greater dose of caffeine than many consumers may realize. These elevated amounts, coupled with the large amounts of sugar commonly found in these products, often lead drinkers to experience an energy surge followed by a crash similar to eating a candy bar. According to the National Institutes of Health, caffeine consumption among children and adolescents in the U.S. increased by 70% between 1977 and 2009.
LIQUID LIFTS, RISKY
CRASHES Energy Drinks Exposed
Just because something is widely used doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
Energy drinks may be in high demand among millions of consumers, but their potential risks far outweigh their benefits. Here are a few things to consider the next time you reach for a can. THE BIG BUSINESS OF BOOSTED ENERGY To say that energy drinks are popular would be an understatement. More than 50 different products are available at grocery
2
DRSLADIC.COM
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator