As someone who has written extensively on digestive health, I thought I had tried it all. Yet, despite my best efforts, I often found myself battling severe bloating—episodes so uncomfortable that my jeans felt painfully tight for days. My attempts at dietary tweaks and hydration hacks often left me wondering if true relief was even possible. Then, my father told me to try a simple, life-changing remedy: psyllium husk every night.

It was hard to believe at first: something as innocuous as a teaspoon of powder stirred into a glass of water could make a difference. But desperation can be a strong persuader. It's been a week since I started consuming psyllium husk, and my bloating has significantly subsided. At two months, I continue faithfully to add it to my daily regimen, reaping not just relief but other surprising health benefits.

If you are having issues with bloating or other forms of inconsistent digestion, read on to understand what psyllium husk is and why it can be the panacea you were looking for.

What Is Bloating And How Does Psyllium Help?

Other causes of bloating can be foods that produce gas, chewing gum, or carbonation. However, the biggest cause is often constipation. Psyllium husk is a type of soluble fiber obtained from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. It acts as a bulk-forming laxative. The way it works is by absorbing water in the gut and creating a gel-like substance that will make bowel movements smoother and more consistent.

What's powerful is the dual action of fiber of the psyllium:

• Soluble fiber, which has the effect of easing stool through the digestive system due to the lubrication caused.
• In addition, it's insoluble fiber that allows adding bulk for a more productive contraction of the colon.

The stool is released much more effectively with less trouble for the risk of complications including the case of having hemorrhoids.

Also Read: Manage Acid Reflux At Night With 5 Simple Tips For Better Sleep

Other Benefits Of Psyllium Husk

Though widely recognized for its anti-bloating and constipation effects, psyllium husk offers much more.

Improved Gut Health

Psyllium is a prebiotic that supports the growth of good gut bacteria. A well-functioning gut microbiome contributes to immunity, reduced inflammation, and overall health.

Weight Loss

Soluble fiber delays digestion, leaving you feeling fuller for longer. Research has indicated that psyllium husk can aid in weight loss by suppressing appetite and thus preventing overeating.

Blood Sugar Control

Psyllium slows down the absorption of glucose, preventing spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. In people with type 2 diabetes, it may be a helpful tool to keep blood sugar steady.

Reduced Cholesterol Levels

Soluble fiber binds with cholesterol in the digestive system, removing it from the body. Regular intake of psyllium has been associated with lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol.

How to Add Psyllium to Your Diet

Adding psyllium to your diet requires a little care to maximize its benefits:

• Start by taking a small dose mixed in 12 ounces of water and increase slowly after every couple of days until the body adapts to added fiber.
• Drink sufficient amounts of water with the addition of psyllium for a comfortable elimination or even reduced discomfort or further bloating. Drink 12 ounces of water with each teaspoon of psyllium.
• Psyllium can be taken at any time, but I've found it most effective in the morning, about an hour before breakfast. Avoid taking it with meals, as it can make you feel overly full.
• To ensure proper absorption of medications, take psyllium at least one hour before or two to four hours after any medications.

Does Psyllium Work Instantly?

Unlike stimulant laxatives, psyllium will not offer quick relief. Most people see improvements in bowel regularity within a few days. Initial side effects such as mild bloating or gas are common but usually resolve within a week as your body adjusts.

Is Psyllium Safe for Daily Use?

For most people, psyllium is safe to take daily. However, it's intended as a supplement, not a long-term replacement for fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Strive to meet your dietary fiber needs naturally over time.

Psyllium husk transformed my approach to digestive health. It offered relief from persistent bloating and constipation while providing additional benefits like improved gut health, cholesterol reduction, and weight management. Whether you’re dealing with occasional discomfort or chronic bloating, this simple 30-second trick could be your answer.

If you're willing to give it a shot, start small and be patient. Like me, you might find that this humble fiber is the key to a happier, healthier gut.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new diet or treatment for digestive health.

Folklore has long suggested that a hot toddy, the warm alcoholic drink made with hot water, lemon juice, honey, and spirits such as whiskey, rum, or brandy, can ease a sore throat or help clear congestion caused by a winter cold. Many people swear by it. But what exactly is a hot toddy, and how does it work when you are dealing with cold and congestion?

What Is A Hot Toddy?

Hot toddy is a popular winter drink, especially during colder months. It is a traditional mix of whiskey or rum, hot water, honey, lemon, and warming spices like cinnamon or cloves. The drink helps warm the body, offers comfort in chilly weather, and may support the body during seasonal illnesses such as colds and flu.

Each ingredient plays a role. Honey is known for its natural antibacterial properties, while lemon provides vitamin C to support immune health. Alcohol acts as a mild vasodilator, which helps improve blood flow, and spices aid digestion while easing congestion. Together, these elements make hot toddy a soothing, natural option for winter discomfort.

That said, moderation is key. One serving, or at most two, especially in the evening, may help with sleep, stress, congestion, sore throat, and general discomfort. Below are some potential health benefits of drinking a hot toddy during winter.

Hot Toddy Health Benefits

1. Soothes Sore Throat and Cough

A hot toddy can feel deeply comforting when your throat is irritated during winter. The heat from the water, combined with honey, helps coat the throat and calm inflamed tissues. This can ease irritation caused by dry air or colds. Honey’s antibacterial qualities support healing, while lemon adds vitamin C to help the immune system. A small amount of whiskey or rum may further relax throat muscles, making coughing and swallowing less uncomfortable.

2. Boosts Immunity During Winter

Winter often brings frequent infections, but a hot toddy may help strengthen the body’s natural defences. Vitamin C from lemon supports white blood cells that fight viruses common in colder months. Honey provides antioxidants and enzymes that assist overall immunity. The warmth of the drink increases circulation, helping immune cells move efficiently through the body. Spices such as cinnamon or ginger offer anti-inflammatory benefits that may reduce the risk of infection. Having this drink before bedtime can support the body during seasonal changes.

3. Relieves Congestion and Clears Sinuses

Blocked noses are a common winter complaint, often caused by cold air outside and dry heating indoors. The steam from a hot toddy can help loosen mucus in the sinuses and nasal passages. Lemon’s acidity may help break down phlegm, while alcohol slightly widens blood vessels, which can ease congestion. Slowly inhaling the vapour can help open airways and make breathing more comfortable.

4. Warms You Inside Out

Few things fight winter chills better than a warm drink. Hot toddy raises your core temperature, helping warmth spread through the body. Alcohol encourages better circulation, especially to hands and feet that often feel cold. Ingredients like ginger or cloves add a warming effect by gently increasing metabolic heat.

5. Relaxation and Better Sleep

Winter stress, shorter days, and busy schedules can interfere with sleep. A hot toddy in moderation may help the body relax. Alcohol has a calming effect that can slow mental activity and ease restlessness. Honey may help stabilise blood sugar levels overnight, reducing sleep interruptions. The warmth of the drink also signals the body to wind down and prepare for rest.

Can A Hot Toddy Help With A Cold?

There is no cure for the common cold. Most people manage symptoms through home remedies and over-the-counter medicines. Honey is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, and lemon contains antioxidants that support health. However, no scientific studies have directly proven that hot toddies treat colds.

That said, according to Medical News Today, many people believe that a hot toddy can help ease common cold symptoms, including:

• runny nose
• sore throat
• sneezing
• fever
• body aches
• headache
• fatigue
• cough

While it may not cure a cold, a hot toddy can offer comfort and temporary relief during the winter months when used responsibly.

A simple drink costing just 22p per serving could benefit your heart. Recent research suggests that orange juice may help reduce blood pressure and inflammation, which are two major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular Disease: A Growing Concern In The UK

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading health concern in the UK, responsible for roughly a quarter of all deaths each year. This umbrella term covers conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, and irregular heart rhythms.

While medications exist to manage these conditions, health authorities recommend lifestyle adjustments as well. Among these, dietary changes are crucial, particularly reducing foods high in saturated fats.

Orange Juice Shows Promise for Heart Health

New research from the University of São Paulo in Brazil, published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, has revealed that orange juice can influence genes linked to high blood pressure and inflammation. These are key contributors to heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.

Inflammation can damage blood vessels, constrict arteries, and promote plaque buildup. Orange juice was also shown to enhance genes involved in fat metabolism, supporting better processing and storage of fats in the body.

Layanne Nascimento Fraga, the study’s lead author, told Medical News Today: “We used a transcriptomic approach to observe the effects of orange juice on the entire metabolic system, allowing us to see multiple pathways working together. We found improvements in key cardiometabolic markers, including blood pressure, inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism.”

The study identified 1,705 genes affected by orange juice, with 98% being downregulated, highlighting its broad impact on cardiovascular health.

Personalised Benefits and Nutrigenomics

The researchers noted that orange juice’s effects can vary based on an individual’s body weight. This provides insights for tailored dietary recommendations, particularly regarding flavonoid-rich foods like citrus. At the time of reporting, a litre of orange juice from Tesco cost 89p, making a 250ml serving roughly 22p.

Supporting Evidence from Other Studies

This is not the first time orange juice has been linked to heart health. A 2023 study in Lipids in Health and Disease found that consuming two glasses (480ml) daily for at least a year led to significantly lower cholesterol levels in participants aged 18–66.

A meta-analysis reviewing nine studies also suggested that orange juice may improve levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, though effects on total cholesterol and “good” HDL cholesterol were not significant.

A 2021 study in the European Journal of Nutrition further showed that hesperidin-enriched orange juice could reduce systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure, offering a potential tool for managing pre- and stage-1 hypertension.

It is important to remember that orange juice contains roughly 24 grams of sugar per serving, which should be considered when incorporating it into a daily diet, especially for those monitoring sugar intake.

It is that time of the year, when you will be partying, waking up hungover, and partying again. However, it is important to understand that such a habit takes a toll on you. How long alcohol stays in your body depends on how much you drank and how fast your system processes it. In general, the liver can break down roughly one standard drink per hour. Still, traces of alcohol can show up in tests even 24 hours later. A standard drink usually means about 12 ounces of beer, 4 ounces of wine, or 1 and a quarter ounces of distilled spirits. The more you drink, the longer your body needs to clear it.

Most of the alcohol you consume is processed by the liver. Small amounts leave through urine, sweat, and breath, but there is no shortcut to speed this up. Coffee, cold showers, or fancy detox drinks do not flush alcohol out faster. Time is the only real detox. Giving your liver space to do its job is key.

If someone has been drinking heavily for a long period and suddenly stops, detox can come with withdrawal symptoms. These can range from mild discomfort to serious complications. In some cases, withdrawal can be life threatening, which is why medical supervision is strongly advised for people with a history of heavy drinking.

How Long Can Alcohol Be Detected?

Alcohol stays detectable in the body for different lengths of time depending on the test used and individual factors like age, sex, body weight, food intake, and medications. Urine, breath, and blood tests can usually detect alcohol for 12 to 24 hours after drinking. Hair tests are different and may show alcohol use for up to 90 days.

In most parts of the United States, driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams per deciliter or higher is illegal because it affects judgment and vision. Utah has a lower legal limit of 0.05. Even if you feel sober, alcohol can still be present in your system.

What Happens During Alcohol Detox?

For people with alcohol use disorder or long term heavy drinking habits, withdrawal symptoms may start around eight hours after the last drink. These symptoms often peak between 24 and 72 hours and usually ease within five to seven days. Some psychological effects like anxiety or cravings can last longer.

Early symptoms often include nausea, anxiety, poor sleep, and stomach pain. More severe symptoms can involve high blood pressure, confusion, fever, hallucinations, or seizures. Because of these risks, detoxing in a medical setting is often the safest option. Doctors may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Tips for a Safer Detox

If you are cutting back or quitting alcohol, start by talking to a healthcare professional, especially if your drinking has been heavy. Take things one day at a time and focus on small, realistic goals. Choose a calm and supportive environment and avoid triggers that make you want to drink.

Hydration matters. Alcohol dehydrates the body, so water, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks can help reduce headaches and fatigue. Nutrition also plays a big role. Balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein support recovery. Foods rich in B vitamins and magnesium are particularly helpful.

Avoid replacing alcohol with other substances like excessive caffeine or nicotine, as this can worsen stress and cravings. If you notice signs of alcohol dependence, reaching out for professional help is a strong and positive step. Detox is only the beginning, but with the right support, recovery is possible.