5 Health Facts You May Not Know.

Do you the ideal temperature for optimal sleep? Did you know that a certain type of food can help alleviate a migraine headache? What about belly fat, where does that come from? Here’s the inside scoop on these and other little-known facts…

• Half of American adults do not get enough sleep. While many factors may play a part, one simple thing you can

  do to sleep better is to lower the thermostat. The ideal temperature for sleep is around 68 degrees. If you’re

  having trouble sleeping, drop it down to about 65 degrees.

• While certain supplements can help alleviate migraines, beans are a surprising natural alternative. Black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas all are rich in magnesium, which plays a critical role in alleviating headaches.
• Certain foods and vitamins can actually help elevate your mood and alleviate some symptoms of mild depression. Among the most beneficial foods to lift your spirits are dark chocolate, salmon, and dark-colored vegetables (such as peppers and broccoli).
• Prolonged stress results in increased production of cortisol, our primary stress hormone. This increase in cortisol triggers an ancient biochemical reaction in us, and as a result, the body responds as if it is starving and automatically stores fat in the belly. While stress may be a major cause of belly fat, alcohol can make it even harder to lose. Aside from the sugar and the calories involved, it is the way in which alcohol is metabolized by the liver and its biochemical effects on your hormonal balance that contributes to belly fat production.
• We’ve all heard that carrots are great for the eyes, but spinach and salmon are actually two of the most beneficial foods for your eyesight. The combination of antioxidants in the spinach and the omega-3 fatty acids in the fish can strengthen and protect your eyes.