Foods to avoid and management options for arthritis

Foods to avoid and management options for arthritis

Living with arthritis can be a daily battle, as persistent joint pain and stiffness can hinder mobility and affect the overall quality of life. However, there is good news. With a comprehensive approach that combines evidence-based treatment methods, lifestyle modifications, and innovative therapies, individuals can find relief from arthritis symptoms and regain control over their lives. Combining these available treatment options with the right food can further help manage the condition. On that note, here are a few foods to avoid to manage arthritis: Refined sugar sources like soft drinks Limiting your sugar intake is of utmost importance. Therefore, consuming added sugar in foods, like bread, and beverages, like soft drinks, can be even more harmful to the system. It can contribute to elevated inflammatory symptoms in the body and further complicate your condition. Be aware of the extra sugar in the sweets you eat and the sauces and other condiments you top off your plate with. To keep the less-than-ideal arthritis symptoms under check, you must read the labels of the foods and beverages you bring home. Packaged foods are especially alarmingly rich in added sugar. Frozen pizza Per the CDC, frozen pizza is one of the most common sources of high sodium intake for Americans.
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Lung cancer – Signs, diagnosis, and management options

Lung cancer – Signs, diagnosis, and management options

Mostly observed in those above 65 years, lung cancer starts from the small air sacs (alveoli) or the airways (bronchi or bronchioles). Its symptoms are not apparent in the early stages and are only diagnosed in the advanced stages. Being aware of the signs can help in seeking early diagnosis and treatment. Here’s all an individual needs to know about silent signs of lung cancer, its diagnosis, and various treatment options. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer The signs of lung cancer are often similar to that of other health disorders related to the lungs. So it becomes difficult to get a proper diagnosis in the early stages. However, it is best to take preventive measures and consult a doctor whenever these symptoms appear and do not go away for a long time. Persistent cough and hoarseness that does not go away Trouble breathing or shortness of breath Discomfort or pain in the chest Frequent instances of wheezing Coughing up blood Chronic fatigue or extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve even after resting Gradual changes in eating habits due to appetite loss, difficulty swallowing, abdomen pain, vomiting, or nausea Sudden formation of lumps or swelling anywhere in the body Chronic pain that is recent and caused due to unknown reason Changes in texture and color of skin where lumps have formed.
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9 household products that may harm the lungs

9 household products that may harm the lungs

Stocking household essentials is a routine part of most homeowners’ weekly plans. While these items are indispensable to an optimally functioning household, not understanding their potentially harmful effects can cause several health hazards, including pulmonary issues. While buying household products, it is important to understand each product’s constituents and safe consumption practices to prevent them from causing health problems. This article lists household products that may be potentially harmful to one’s lungs if not used right: Household products potentially harmful to the lungs Hand sanitizer Hand sanitizers are highly effective in ensuring clean hands and destroying bacteria and germs, which may cause infections if ingested. However, sanitizers comprise several chemicals, including benzalkonium and methanol, and inhaling these chemicals can cause a host of health hazards, such as lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, loss of smell, chemical burns in the nasal cavity, and worsening of existing respiratory issues. Bleach spray Bleach spray serves a wide range of household functions, from eliminating mold and mildew from surfaces and fabrics to disinfecting surfaces and removing stains. However, bleach is a harmful chemical that can cause several health problems if not used properly. It is particularly known for increasing susceptibility to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused by blockage of airflow to the lungs.
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5 bad habits that can trigger heartburn

5 bad habits that can trigger heartburn

Heartburn or acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid flows back to the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Certain foods, especially those that are spicy, processed, or fried, and several ongoing treatment options may contribute to heartburn or worsen it. Additionally, a few seemingly harmless daily habits can increase the risk of acid reflux. So, here are unhealthy habits that may trigger heartburn: Overeating Eating large meals or more than one requires is one of the biggest reasons for heartburn. When one eats, the food travels through the esophagus to the stomach. Between the mouth and the stomach, there is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, which closes up when the food reaches the stomach. However, when one eats too much, the stomach stays distended, meaning it is unable to close due to the pressure of food inside of it. When the LES does not close, the extra food and stomach juices can easily travel back up through the esophagus, causing acid reflux or heartburn. Eating too quickly Being impatient with meals is another trigger for heartburn. Further, eating while lying down, eating too close to bedtime, having large meals frequently, and not maintaining enough gap between two meals to allow digestion are some other unhealthy habits that may trigger heartburn.
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8 common mistakes to avoid while showering

8 common mistakes to avoid while showering

Showering may seem like a simple act, but there are some common showering mistakes that one could make that may harm skin health. This easy 10-minute ritual is important for maintaining daily hygiene and ensuring that one does it correctly. This practice is crucial for good skin and hair health. Here are some things one needs to be careful of and other tips that may help avoid the repercussions of these common mistakes. Using excessive soap Yes, it is a cleaning agent, but it can also quickly dry out the skin when used in excess. Many soaps are available in the market, but try looking for a soap with a moisturizing ingredient or something called stearic acid. This is an ingredient that is used to harden the soap, and it helps in creating a thick lather that feels velvety to the skin. Thanks to its occlusive properties, using this ingredient in soap will keep the skin hydrated and prevent moisture loss from the surface. Frequent showers Taking too many unnecessary showers in a day may cause the skin’s natural oils to dry, leaving it dry and flaky. It is important to stay clean and hygienic to avoid any infections. However, bathing more than three times a day is a waste of natural skin oils and can lead to infection too.
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12 telltale signs that it’s time for a home renovation

12 telltale signs that it’s time for a home renovation

Your home is your prized possession. Over time, it evolves with you. Just like all other aspects of your life, your house also needs love, care, and upkeep to maintain it. But how do you know when you’re ready for a home remodel? From chipping paint to outdated fixtures that no longer serve their purpose, there are several signs around your home telling you that it’s time for an upgrade. Lack of modern appeal There are constant developments in the field of home appliances and furniture alike. While you don’t need to keep up with every trend in the market, some things may make your home appear dated and affect its functionality. Old appliances are known to consume more electricity, and old faucets may leak, severely impacting your utility bills. When these aspects of your home begin to impact its efficiency, it is time to undertake a renovation project. Leaking roof Many of us believe that a leaking roof is harmless or a project that will consume too much time and energy. However, a leaking roof is one of the most apparent signs that your home is due for renovation. If you’re interested in a low-maintenance roof that is durable and energy-efficient, opt for a metal roof.
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9 warning signs of colon cancer

9 warning signs of colon cancer

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, originates in the colon (large intestine), the final part of the digestive system. But in some cases, it can also begin in the rectum. In most cases, this condition affects older adults. However, one can develop it at any age. Fortunately, if diagnosed in the early stages, colon cancer can be managed and treated fully in some cases. Hence, knowing its warning signs is essential. Warning signs of colon cancer Here are a few warning signs that one should know: Persistent changes in bowel habits Most symptoms of colon cancer remain unnoticed until the later stages. This happens because most signs of this condition resemble those of other gastrointestinal diseases. This also includes sudden changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea. Besides this, one can also look out for alterations such as changes in consistency or narrowing of the stool. If any of these are noticed, one must note the duration of these symptoms. One must seek immediate medical attention if these last longer than a few days. Blood in stool Usually, blood can appear in the stool due to irritated polyps, benign growths that may become cancerous over time. So, while the color of the stool can change depending on the foods eaten, one must be wary of any sign of blood while passing stool.
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Foods to manage Parkinson’s and treatment options

Foods to manage Parkinson’s and treatment options

Parkinson’s is a neurological disorder that results in involuntary and unpredictable movements in the body, such as rigidity, tremors, and impaired balance and coordination. As the disease advances, these symptoms typically become more severe. Although there is currently no known cure for Parkinson’s, there are various strategies for managing the condition. Proper nutrition is a critical component of effective management, so consider the following dos and don’ts of nutrition and some promising new treatment options to explore. Role of nutrition While nutrition is important in general for a healthy life, those dealing with Parkinson’s should especially be careful of foods to eat and avoid. This is due to the complications that arise because of the disease. These can include complications like constipation. Due to the slowdown of the digestive system, constipation can be a regular occurrence in those suffering from this disease. Irregular bowel movements can be uncomfortable, but if constipation becomes severe, it can have a significant impact on the large intestine. Dehydration is another common concern of Parkinson’s patients, so extra care needs to be given to hydration needs. Dehydration can cause dizziness, tiredness, confusion, weakness, and kidney issues. When undergoing Parkinson’s treatment therapy, it is recommended to avoid high-protein meals.
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