11 foods that can help reduce blood pressure

11 foods that can help reduce blood pressure

Many people opt for meal plans with less salt and processed foods when trying to reduce blood pressure. While this is a step in the right direction, it may not be enough. Adopting a heart-healthy nutrition plan is a more effective approach to managing high blood pressure. This involves including foods and beverages that lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, thus helping reduce blood pressure. To improve overall health, here are some foods that can help one get started on a journey. Garlic Garlic is a popular food known to help manage blood pressure due to its high allicin content. This substance contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties. In addition, it helps in managing hypertension by relaxing the blood vessels, which in turn allows blood to flow more freely. To get the benefits of garlic in reducing blood pressure, it is recommended to use fresh garlic cloves instead of processed or canned ones. Fresh cloves can be added to a variety of dishes, including soups, stir-fries, stews, pasta, and curries, to enhance the flavor. Fat-free or low-fat yogurt Yogurt is one of the most nutritious foods as it contains probiotics and calcium. The probiotics promote gut health and enhance the function of the digestive and immune systems.
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10 household factors likely to trigger lung problems

10 household factors likely to trigger lung problems

Managing a household involves a host of activities and responsibilities, from cooking and cleaning to taking care of finances and maintaining the home. Another essential aspect of ensuring a safe and healthy household is to identify specific factors that can affect one’s health. Certain seemingly harmless factors may potentially trigger or aggravate lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. So, here are 11 household factors to note that may trigger lung problems. Mold This type of fungus releases tiny particles called spores in the air, which can cause lung infections, particularly among individuals with mold allergies. It can also worsen COPD and weaken one’s immune system, making one vulnerable to other health problems. Therefore, it is important to promptly fix leaks, prevent the development of moisture, and ensure that cut grass clumps do not form in one’s lawn. Flour Although an indispensable ingredient in baking, flour is classified as a hazardous substance for the lungs and often leads to coughing and wheezing among bakers. For example, flour dust typically causes occupational asthma and allergic rhinitis. In fact, one of the most common types of occupational asthma is one caused by exposure to cereal flour. This type of asthma is called baker’s asthma.
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8 early warning signs of breast cancer

8 early warning signs of breast cancer

Breast cancer is a serious condition that predominantly affects women. It can have several warning signs and symptoms, which can differ from person to person. A lot of times, there may also be no noticeable signs of the condition. However, to increase the chances of treating it successfully, early detection is crucial. So, one must be aware of some common warning signs that can indicate breast cancer. Here are 8 early warning signs to watch out for. 1. Lump in the breast Perhaps the most common early warning sign of breast cancer is noticing a lump in the breast. These lumps are usually painless, hard, and have uneven edges. This early warning sign is usually more common for invasive breast cancers, such as invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Apart from these, lumps in the breasts can also be early warning signs of metastatic breast cancer, papillary carcinoma, and, in rare cases, inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). It is important to note that not having lumps in the breast may not always indicate cancer. But either way, if one notices it, one must consult a medical professional at the earliest. 2. Change in shape of the breast(s) Any noticeable alterations in the size or shape of one or both breasts can be an important indicator of breast cancer.
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Common warning signs and causes of hearing loss

Common warning signs and causes of hearing loss

Hearing is a fundamental sense that connects us to the world around us. Unfortunately, hearing loss can gradually creep into our lives, affecting our day-to-day experiences. Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It’s important to recognize that hearing loss can result from various factors, ranging from genetic predispositions to environmental influences. Being aware of the warning signs of hearing impairment is crucial for seeking timely intervention. Here are a few early signs of hearing loss: Experiencing difficulty conversing One of the initial signs of hearing loss is struggling to understand conversations, especially in bustling, noisy environments like restaurants or crowded events. If an individual frequently requests others to repeat themselves or exhibits signs of confusion during discussions, it could be an early indicator of hearing impairment. Paying close attention to such instances can aid in identifying the issue in its early stages. Turning up the volume People with emerging hearing loss may constantly increase the volume of their electronic devices. They may request others to speak louder or feel the need to be close to hear clearly. This action clearly signals that their hearing might be compromised and warrants further attention.
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9 foods that may help relieve migraine symptoms

9 foods that may help relieve migraine symptoms

A migraine episode may seem never-ending, so one must take measures to reduce its intensity and severity. Among other triggers, what one eats also influences the severity of migraine flare-ups. Certain foods, such as French fries, beef, and coffee, worsen migraines. On the other hand, some foods are deemed nutritious to help people with migraine combat their symptoms to a great degree. So, here are some key foods that may help relieve migraine episodes: Spinach Spinach is one of the best magnesium sources known to decrease or, in many cases, even prevent migraine flare-ups. Multiple studies conducted by the American Migraine Foundation directly link low brain magnesium levels with increased migraine risks in individuals. Apart from combating migraines, spinach also helps the body in other ways, such as improving blood circulation, keeping the digestive system healthy, and facilitating smoother release of stools. Due to its multiple health benefits, one must consider adding spinach or other leafy green vegetables at least partially in daily meals. Salmon An essential nutrient the body needs for growth, development, and resilience is omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are naturally occurring inflammation fighters. As is well known, inflammation is one of the core causes of migraine flare-ups and the condition.
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10 early warning signs of arthritis

10 early warning signs of arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation or swelling of one or more joints. It encompasses over 100 conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues. The symptoms of arthritis may vary depending on its type. However, it is essential to identify the symptoms of the disease at the earliest possible time to help one carry on with daily tasks. Here are some common warning signs of arthritis to help with the diagnosis: 1. Numbness and tingling sensation One of the most common signs of arthritis is a numbing and tingling sensation in various joints of the body. The sign is commonly caused by rheumatoid arthritis, which results in swelling of various nerves. Therefore, someone with the condition might experience tingling, burning, or a numbing sensation in various parts of their body, including the hands. One should get themselves checked if they are diagnosed by a healthcare professional and treated at the earliest possible time to improve one’s quality of life. 2. Crepitus The term refers to creaking, grinding, popping, or crunching sounds that may come from a moving joint. The sign is usually common in people as they age, but it could happen to anyone at risk of arthritis.
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8 silent signs of lymphoma

8 silent signs of lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a vital part of the body’s immune system. It occurs when abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, multiply uncontrollably. There are two main categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Early detection and timely intervention significantly increase the chances of successful management and recovery for individuals affected by this condition. Below are the top silent symptoms to be aware of. Unexplained body mass loss One of the earliest and often overlooked lymphoma signs is unexplained body mass loss. Individuals might shed significant pounds without any apparent meal plan or exercise regimen changes. Cancer cells consume energy and nutrients, leading to unintended loss. A loss of more than 10% of one’s body mass over six months should raise concern and prompt a thorough health evaluation. Persistent fatigue and weakness Chronic fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of various health conditions, and they can easily be attributed to a busy lifestyle or insufficient rest. However, when these feelings persist despite adequate rest and nutrition, it could indicate an underlying issue. In lymphoma, the body’s immune system expends considerable energy in battling cancer cells, leading to persistent fatigue, lethargy, and a pervasive sense of weakness.
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9 things that Medicare doesn’t cover

9 things that Medicare doesn’t cover

Medicare is a great way to cover the health needs of senior citizens in the country. There are many parts to this insurance plan, and while it is an extensively detailed policy with numerous services, there are some things that Medicare does not cover. Anyone planning to enroll in the program should know of the exclusions so there are no surprises later. Thus, here are 9 aspects of healthcare not covered by Medicare. Hearing aids Any ear-related health conditions are covered under Medicare; however, the Medicare or Medigap plans do not cover hearing tests or hearing aid purchases under their plan. If one has a Medicare Advantage plan, cone can check the policy details to see if it has covered hearing-related health needs. The original Medicare does not cover this need, so it is usually advised to buy another insurance that will help in covering hearing devices. Some programs by the government assist those in need with buying hearing aids for health purposes; one can check those out for further assistance. Routine eye checkups or aids Medicare covers intensive care options like cataract surgery but does not cover routine eye examinations. It also excludes coverage for purchasing contact lenses or glasses.
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