Home | Auto

Foods to eat to manage arthritis

Foods to eat to manage arthritis
Arthritis is an inflammatory condition of the joints, and it impacts people of all ages. It is the swelling and tenderness joints and its major symptoms include joint pain, tenderness, and stiffness. That being said, those in the age group of 65 years and above tend to be more susceptible to arthritis. Fortunately, this disorder can be managed with changes in lifestyle and eating habits. The following foods can help reduce inflammation of the joints. Foods to eat Garlic Arthritis causes inflammation owing to the auto-immune response of the body. Garlic helps overcome the issue by easing the inflammation in the joints, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also contributes toward strengthening the body’s immune response. Ginger The potent spice can fight off inflammation in the body to a great extent. It is particularly effective in treating knee pain that results from osteoarthritis. It contains gingerol, a compound that actively blocks inflammatory pathways, making it easier to fight off inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Fatty fish Freshwater fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help fight inflammation. This also means decreased pain in the joints. Additionally, fatty or oily fish is an equally rich source of vitamin D, making it a nutritionally rich food for those with bone-related issues.

5 foods that help manage cholesterol levels

5 foods that help manage cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the body and is also naturally present in certain foods. When found in excess, it can take up space in the arteries, narrowing them and constricting blood flow. There are two types of cholesterol: HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol). The latter is harmful and gets deposited in the bloodstream, increasing the heart disease risk. Below are five foods to lower cholesterol levels in the body. Oats Oats are a great staple food option for cholesterol as they are packed with soluble fiber. Research shows that soluble fiber helps reduce LDL cholesterol by preventing it from getting absorbed into the bloodstream. Individuals can eat oats for breakfast and even other meals by mixing different fruits. Besides oats, other food options rich in soluble fiber include kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, and pears. Avocados Apart from being a great spread, avocados help improve LDL levels because they have monounsaturated fatty acids. Moreover, avocados are considered heart-healthy when combined with options like whole-wheat bread, whole-wheat chips, or when used with raw vegetables. Fish Fatty fish like mackerel, herring, tuna, salmon, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce triglycerides – a type of fat in the blood.

4 high-cholesterol foods to avoid

4 high-cholesterol foods to avoid
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in our body that settles in the arteries. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL or low-density lipoprotein and HDL or high-density lipoprotein. Out of the two, LDL is bad, while HDL is good as it helps in excreting excess cholesterol from the body. Here are some foods that you should exclude from your nutritional regime to maintain good cholesterol health for a healthy life. Fried foods All fried foods are known to have trans fat, which can be harmful to your health and also increase the risk of getting heart disease. The consumption of fried foods has also been linked to increased risk of diabetes and obesity. Foods like deep-fried meats and cheese sticks should be avoided due to their high cholesterol content. Fast food Consuming too much fast food has been linked with an increased risk of several chronic diseases, including heart illness, diabetes, and even obesity. It is observed that those who consume fast food very often are known to have irregular sugar levels, higher levels of inflammation, and visible belly fat. Even with exercise, it is important to consume a nutritious meal instead of fried and fast food. Desserts Having a sweet tooth has some disadvantages, including risking your cholesterol levels.

5 foods to tackle the symptoms of depression

5 foods to tackle the symptoms of depression
Depression is a mood disorder that can get serious if it’s not treated in time. It can lead to symptoms that affect how one may think, feel, or how they handle daily activities like eating, working, or sleeping. Along with treatments for depression, there are certain foods that one can consume to get relief from the symptoms of depression. These foods also help improve a person’s overall health. Listed below are five such foods. Berries Berries like raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries are foods that contain high quantities of antioxidants. According to a study, patients who were treated for two years with antioxidants had lower depression scores. These antioxidants are also known to prevent other illnesses and cancer. Walnuts Walnuts are loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support brain function and alleviate the symptoms of depression. Omega-3 fatty acids also contain other properties that can significantly help improve a person’s overall condition. Dark Leafy Greens Dark leafy greens are one of the healthiest foods you can eat to improve your overall health. They are rich in immune-boosting and anticancer properties such as vitamins A, C, E, and K; phytochemicals; and other minerals. Avocados Avocados are known as power foods because they are rich in healthy fats needed by the brain to function properly.

4 dog treats made from human foods

4 dog treats made from human foods
It’s well known that our furry best friends absolutely love their treats! But what are some human foods that make for yummy and healthy treats for them? We’ve got some food options that you can explore that are completely safe to give to your dog. These foods can be a delightful surprise for your pet apart from their regular treats. What’s more! They are easy to make and will keep them full in between meals. Vegetables You would be surprised to know how much these puppies love a well-made veggie treat! Carrots, broccoli, pumpkin, cauliflower, and green peas make for yummy treats that are nutritious for your dog. You can steam these veggies until they are soft, add them to their regular meals, or even give them separately. Chicken This shouldn’t come as a surprise! Dogs love chicken. While boiled chicken and rice are a healthy and nutritious combination, add a few condiments to this mix to bring out the flavor of the treat. Adding half a cup of homemade chicken stock along with your pup’s favorite veggies will make this a nutritious and satiating meal. Fish Make sure you are only experimenting with salmon, as that’s the safest option for your pet.

Foods to avoid to manage depression

Foods to avoid to manage depression
Depression is a state of mind where one experiences extreme sadness and aloofness. This is characterized as a mental health illness and needs professional guidance. Going to therapy and taking medications, if prescribed, is the best way to cope with this illness. However, it is also important to look into other factors like lifestyle and nutrition. To help you, here are some foods to avoid when dealing with depression as they cause anxiety. Sugar According to studies, it is observed that having too much of sugar can cause inflammation in the body and brain. It was also observed that this inflammation is usually 30% higher in those suffering with depression. While our body may crave sugar when we’re feeling low and give an instant rush, the blood sugar crash followed by this is what destabilizes the mood. It also has an effect on energy. It is advised to maintain a healthy blood sugar level to deal with depression. Trans fats These are bad fats found in fried foods like French fries, fried chicken, fried calamari, and fried cheese sticks. According to studies, consumption of trans fats worsen depression symptoms. Apart from being bad for mental health, these foods are also responsible for clogging arteries and increasing the risk of heart diseases.

Must
Reads.

4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.

Understanding the different aspects of a flu outbreak

Flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can result in mild to severe illness and health complications. A severe flu infection can result in hospitalization and can even prove to be fatal, especially in young children, older people aged above 65, and people with underlying health conditions. There are two main types of flu viruses: Type A and Type B virus. The illness can be periodical and result in seasonal flu epidemics each year. The cold, flu, and its symptoms such as cough is caused due to the type of the viruses mentioned above. Influenza may not always be considered by most people as a serious illness, its symptoms comprising a runny nose, headaches, cough, and muscle pain can be confused with those of a heavy cold. Yet reports suggest that seasonal influenza can claim up to 650,000 lives every year. That is why influenza vaccinations are important because they protect people, especially those in at-risk categories, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with vulnerable immune systems or underlying health conditions. What most of us call “the flu” is essentially seasonal influenza because it comes around in the coldest season twice a year, once in the Northern hemisphere’s winter, and once in the Southern hemisphere’s winter in temperate zones of the world. The flu circulates year-round in the tropics and subtropics, which makes it more contagious. The worst part about the influenza virus is that it constantly mutates, enabling it to evade the mechanisms of our immune systems. The virus learns from the responses of the human body and creates a suitable defensive mechanism to survive the attack by the immune system. When a new virus emerges, it can easily infect people and spread due to its contagiousness. Very little to no immunity to a new strain can lead to a simple outbreak becoming an epidemic or a pandemic within no time.

Our
Blog.

9 most common types of depression you should know about

9 most common types of depression you should know about

All of us feel low, upset, and unmotivated at some point in our life, but this isn’t classified as depression. Depression is a mood disorder that overshadows a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signs and symptoms of this grave disorder can range from feeling hopeless and tired to completely losing the will to live. There are several types of depression and they are listed below so you can understand depression and people suffering from it better. Major Depression (Clinical Depression) The hallmark trait of this type of depression is the constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in social life or any outside stimuli. It often lasts for two weeks or more in which a person can experience symptoms such as hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) Dysthymia lasts for years and can disrupt daily life and interfere with personal and professional relationships. Individuals with dysthymia are often seen as dark, pessimistic, or complainers by others, and they have a hard time being happy in typically pleasant situations. Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder) People with manic depression experience high degrees of mood swings. Their train of thought can take them from feeling euphoric to feeling suicidal in just a few weeks. It is very common to get into a depressive state before or after the manic episode. Postpartum Depression (Peripartum Depression) This depression episode is characterized by dramatic hormonal changes in women after giving birth. They may tend to experience bouts of sadness and cry anytime. The symptoms usually alleviate after a week or two of giving birth. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) People with this type of depression start experiencing depressive symptoms with a change in seasons. For many, it happens during winter. The individual starts feeling worse as the season progresses and can even have suicidal thoughts.
Read More
Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Pregnancy is a new experience in every couple’s life, and one should understand a few things to ensure that the nine months are smooth and stress-free. Simply being prepared for pregnancy and looking forward to the joy of parenthood is not all there’s to childbirth. As a couple, you must understand, review, and adjust your lifestyle. Expecting mothers become their child’s nurturers and supporters from day one, but the expecting fathers, close relatives, and friends must also understand the key roles they will play right up to the due date. Here are a few simple family and pregnancy guide points to help you and your folks get started: Staying healthy Physical and mental wellbeing is extremely crucial for the expecting mother to ensure both her and the baby’s health. Diet plays a crucial role in this process, as the mother is now providing nutrition for the developing fetus as well as herself. As a family, you can take turns to ensure that the to-be mother is staying physically active, eating healthy and regularly, and not cultivating any bad habits. More importantly, family and loved ones should be prepared for the changes to come in the upcoming trimesters. Coping with changes – what to expect Morning sickness in the first trimester is quite common and can put a woman’s body under tremendous stress. Nausea and vomiting may also cause headaches, but medications cannot always be taken, as they may affect the baby’s health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause extreme mood swings, so everyone around must be prepared to deal with this. Maintaining a healthy relationship with one’s partner and responding to their needs is crucial to ensure a healthy pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, when the baby starts developing quickly. Counseling One of the more crucial aspects of family and pregnancy planning is prenatal counseling.
Read More