Ginger and lemon, both rich in health benefits, combine to create a powerful detox drink that can aid in weight loss and improve digestion. Here’s a simple recipe and its potential benefits:
Ingredients:
Grated ginger – 5 tablespoons (50g)
Juice of 2 lemons
Water – 6 cups (1.5 liters)
Preparation Steps:
Boil the water and add the grated ginger.
Infuse for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
After 10 minutes, strain and add the lemon juice.
For optimal results, drink on an empty stomach.
Regular consumption of this ginger-lemon detox drink is recommended for its long-term effects. While immediate results might not be noticeable, consistent intake can lead to significant benefits. It’s best consumed in the morning, but you can also carry it in a thermos and drink throughout the day.
Ginger, originating from Asia and known for over 5,000 years in both culinary and medicinal contexts, has gained popularity in Western countries due to its health benefits. It’s often associated with aphrodisiac, anti-emetic properties, and aiding in weight loss.
Lemon, a citrus fruit revered as the “fruit of the Sun,” thrives in warm regions like India, the Middle East, and the Iberian Peninsula. Despite its high water content, lemon is packed with essential nutrients, including a significant amount of vitamins like Vitamin C and B9 (folic acid), as well as trace elements such as phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains natural antioxidants called polyphenols and is known for its slimming and antioxidant properties.
When ginger and lemon are combined, their individual effects are amplified, offering an even more beneficial health impact. This drink not only supports weight loss and digestion but also leverages the extensive health properties of both ingredients.
What White Tongue Is, and What to Do About It
There are many possible causes for white tongue, and in some cases, it comes with an unpleasant odor and mouth dryness. To get rid of it, sometimes you just need to brush your teeth. But what should you do if that doesn’t help?
This article is for informative purposes only and can’t replace the advice of a specialist.
What white tongue is
The white film may cover the entire tongue, part of it, or appear as spots. At the same time, an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth may appear. It looks as if there are small white hairs on the tongue’s surface. In fact, they are buds covered with organic particles, bacteria, and dead cells.
White plaque on the tongue (which can also be yellow) may appear for different reasons, like due to irritation or because of an infection. It usually disappears after several days. If the situation doesn’t change for several weeks, and it’s painful to eat and talk, it’s best to see a doctor.
It’s important to note that the plaque may not only be white. While a pink tongue is normal, a brown tongue means the person drinks too much coffee or tea. A yellow tongue means there’s something wrong with the liver, and a red tongue is a sign that the person lacks vitamin B.
Why the tongue becomes white
Usually, the tongue becomes white due to bacteria, leftover bits of food, or dead cells that get stuck in between the buds. Because of this, the buds may increase in size or become inflamed. This is how white spots on the tongue’s surface appear.
Sometimes, the plaque appears due to an illness. For example, the geographic tongue is also a condition where white spots appear on the tongue. It’s quite rare, and the causes are unknown, but the condition itself is often connected to eating foods that irritate the tongue. It may also be a reaction to stress, an illness, or hormonal changes.
Why white plaque appears on the tongue
There are some things that make the appearance of white plaque on the tongue more probable:
- Age
- Taking antibiotics (white-yellow plaque appearing when there’s a fungal infection in the mouth)
- A diet that’s lacking enough fruits, vegetables, vitamin B12, and iron
- A weak immune system
- Bad mouth hygiene
- Dental prosthetics or other objects that can damage the tongue
- Dehydration and mouth dryness
What piercings have to do with white tongue
Right after piercing the tongue, there might be some white film present. This happens because the number of bacteria on the tongue increases, and it’s normal. Antibacterial mouthwash will help you get rid of it. Plus, there might be a ring around the piercings, which is normal too, and it means the tissue is healing.
If the plaque appears due to an injury (including piercings), the healing should take around 1.5 weeks. You should avoid irritants, such as hot, spicy, or sour foods and drinks.
How to get rid of white tongue at home
- Practice good mouth hygiene.
- Drink enough water.
- Brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush.
- Use a mild fluoride toothpaste — one that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Use fluoride mouthwash.
- Brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove the white coating.
- Drink cold drinks through a straw.
- Avoid food and drinks that are spicy, salty, acidic, or very hot in temperature.
Who to talk to if you’re worried about your white tongue
- Your dentist can help you remove the white film from the tongue and prescribe medications if needed.
- Your GP can diagnose the tongue, prescribe you certain medications and determine if the white tongue is an indicator of a more serious issue.
What do you do about white tongue?
Preview photo credit Genusfotografen (genusfotografen.se) & Wikimedia Sverige (wikimedia.se) / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, Martanopue / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
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