7 Health Hacks You Should Try For Unexpected Benefits: Dr. Karan's Recomendations

Dr. Karan.Photo byDailymail.

Dr. Karan Rangarajan, a celebrated general surgeon known for debunking health myths, appeared on TV with practical and scientifically validated health hacks that promise to transform everyday life. Here are 7 health hacks that Dr. Karan recommends you try out.

1. Lower Stress by Channeling Your Inner Dolphin

One of Dr. Karan's first suggestions is an unexpected yet effective technique for reducing stress: splashing cold water on your face. This isn't just an old wives' tale. According to Dr. Karan, immersing your face in cold water stimulates the vagus nerve—a major nerve that helps regulate your heart rate and blood pressure, ultimately reducing stress and anxiety levels.

Interestingly, this practice has roots in science-backed studies that show how cold exposure, even for short bursts, activates the body's parasympathetic nervous system, calming it down. Whether it’s a quick face splash or a 30-second cold shower, these simple actions can break the cycle of stress and rejuvenate your mind.

2. The Surprising Coffee Hack: Salt Over Sugar

You might raise an eyebrow at this next hack—adding salt to your coffee instead of sugar. Though unconventional, Dr. Karan explains the science behind this trick. Salt, he notes, works by inhibiting bitterness in the coffee, enhancing its sweetness without the need for sugar. This concept is similar to how salted caramel tastes sweeter than it actually is.

This trick can be particularly helpful if you’re trying to cut back on sugar intake. Interestingly, some cultures, including Turkey and certain Scandinavian countries, already add a pinch of salt to their coffee. If you're skeptical, give it a try—your taste buds might just thank you.

3. Boost Sleep Quality with a Hot Shower

We’ve all heard about the wonders of a hot shower to unwind, but did you know it can also improve sleep quality? Dr. Karan explains that taking a warm shower before bed helps the body’s core temperature drop faster, which in turn aids in falling asleep more quickly. The hot water raises your body temperature, and once you leave the shower, your body cools rapidly, signaling to your brain that it’s time for rest.

If you struggle with sleep, try incorporating a hot shower into your bedtime routine. It’s an easy, relaxing way to encourage your body to transition into sleep mode.

4. Paprika: A Hidden Fiber Source

Fiber is crucial for gut health, and Dr. Karan offers an unexpected source of this nutrient: paprika. Just one tablespoon of paprika can provide up to 10% of your daily fiber intake, along with a hefty dose of Vitamin C.

Sprinkling this vibrant spice over your meals is a simple yet effective way to boost fiber intake without much effort. Whether it’s smoked or plain, adding paprika to dishes like pasta or salads can support digestive health and boost antioxidant intake.

5. Blend, Don’t Juice

While juicing fruits and vegetables might seem like a healthy choice, Dr. Karan advises blending instead. Juicing removes much of the pulp and fiber from fruits, which are essential for digestive health and controlling blood sugar levels.

Blending, on the other hand, retains all the fiber and nutrients, offering a more balanced way to consume fruits and vegetables, particularly for those concerned about blood sugar spikes.

6. Fix Your Posture for Better Breathing

Posture plays a significant role in overall health, especially when it comes to breathing. Dr. Karan dispels the myth that occasional slouching is terrible for you but emphasizes the importance of moving regularly.

Staying in one contorted position for long periods can lead to joint pain and stiffness, while proper posture and movement allow for better lung expansion and freer breathing.

7. Protect Your Hearing: The 60/60 Rule

Hearing loss is often a gradual process, but Dr. Karan offers a simple rule to protect your ears: keep your headphone volume at 60% for no more than 60 minutes.

This minimizes exposure to harmful noise levels, which can damage the tiny hair cells in your ears responsible for hearing. These cells do not regenerate, making it vital to protect them early on, especially if you're a regular concertgoer or frequent headphone user.

Conclusion

Dr. Karan’s health hacks are simple, science-backed tips that can easily be incorporated into your daily routine. From managing stress and improving sleep to boosting fiber intake and protecting your hearing, these small changes have the potential to make a big impact on your overall well-being.

Why not give them a try? Your body—and mind—might just thank you.