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6 things to avoid indulging in on a cruise

6 things to avoid indulging in on a cruise
Taking a cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to unwind, and it is hands down the best way to travel. With all the great food and drinks to indulge in, engaging adrenaline activities and luxurious spa retreats, you may never want the vacation to end. However, if this is your first cruise, you must avoid the following things that can land you in trouble or make you feel out of place. Explore the islands Instead of waiting back to use the empty pool, bar, or rides on board, step off the ship to explore the exotic locations. The idea is to have a balance between exploring new places and enjoying the travel as well. An empty pool and an empty bar can be easily enjoyed at a resort, but the island the cruise docks at is probably something you will never get to visit again. Don’t buy a drinks package You may think it’s wise to opt for a drinks package, but most cruise tickets include free cocktails and meals onboard. Be very sure of your package when you buy tickets to know exactly what all it includes. The staff on board may coax its guests to buy various packages before saying yes to confirm what your ticket includes.

5 things you must do while on a cruise

5 things you must do while on a cruise
Cruises are one of the less hectic ways to travel, compared to booking flights and hotels. Many think that being on a big ship for many days at a time could leave you wanting more. And that actually couldn’t be further from the truth. Cruise lines offer tons of attractions and features to keep your days busy and nights entertained. Here are a few ways to make the most of being on a cruise. Chill by the pool Sure, you can spend your days lounging by the pool on land. But chill by a pool on a luxurious cruise is so much cooler. Most top cruise lines offer basic features such as pools and hot tubs. If you feel like you’ve got nothing to do while on international waters, don’t hesitate to take a dip and hang out by the lounge chairs. Aside from the basic pools, some cruises even offer water sports, interactive water parks, water slides, and even wading pools for kids. If you opt for an adults-only cruise, you can find yourself chilling in a pool solarium and relaxing in style. Get pampered at the spa If you’re not too keen on chilling by the pool, you can opt for a self-care day at the spa.

5 things first-time cruisers should avoid doing

5 things first-time cruisers should avoid doing
Those who have traveled on a cruise before are probably already familiar with cruise dos and don’ts. But for cruise rookies out there, this is a brand new experience. If you’re one of them, you probably do not know what to expect, especially since there will be a ton of other passengers. Good thing we’re here to help. Read on to know about five things you should not do on your first cruise trip. Don’t forget to turn off your data First-time passengers are often surprised and dumbfounded by their expensive cellular bills after a cruise. These high bills are only a result of the international data and roaming charges applied to cell services. If you do want to avoid these pricy bills, you can opt to turn off cellular data for the whole duration of your trip or while nearing a coast or port. You can also switch off your cell phone or put it on airplane mode to avoid unnecessary costs. However, this does not mean that you cannot contact your loved ones on land. You can simply use the internet cafes onboard or pay to access Wi-Fi services throughout the trip. Don’t shop too much One of the biggest mistakes first-time travelers make is shopping way too much at ports.

Foods that may help manage atopic dermatitis

Foods that may help manage atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that leads to dry and flaky skin. The skin becomes red, itchy, and inflamed due to this condition. The intensity of these symptoms could vary from one person to another, mild to severe. While there is no cure to the illness, there are possible ways to manage the triggers through lifestyle changes and food habits. Here are some foods that help combat atopic dermatitis . Bananas Bananas are an excellent superfood for those managing eczema symptoms. The high potassium content is not only good for the skin but also helps fight inflammation. These are also the kind of fruits that are very inexpensive and easy to find in stores, making them a convenient addition to a meal plan. Apples Apples are known for their flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant and antihistamine properties, making them one of the best fruits to combat any body or skin inflammation. Since they are also known for their rich vitamin C content, they make for an excellent food choice to avoid dry and itchy skin conditions. Make sure you have the apple with its skin; it has nutrients too. Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients.

Top foods that promote bone health

Top foods that promote bone health
Bones make up our skeletal structure that supports all organs and muscle groups in the body. Studies reveal that most adults reach their peak bone mass by 30. This is when new bone formation is at its prime. And to supplement this important function, the body must absorb essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, phosphorous, and proteins. Here are the top five nutritious sources that supplement daily bone growth and health requirements. Calcium-rich foods Calcium is one of the most crucial vitamins for bone health. A calcium deficiency can lead to developmental problems and early bone disorders, especially among growing adults. Dairy is one of the richest sources of this nutrient, usually found in milk, cream, cheese, and yogurt. If someone is lactose intolerant, calcium can be alternatively sourced from fortified soy, almond, and coconut milk. Greens like kale, broccoli, okra, and Chinese cabbage are excellent options for vegetarians. Even seafood like salmon, sardines, pilchards, and even fortified bread, cereals, and snacks can provide for the daily requirement. Vitamin D-rich foods Vitamin D is the main component that lets the body absorb all the calcium from daily foods. Any deficiency of this nutrient can trigger bone mineral loss. Fortified juices, breakfast cereals, and soya drinks are suitable options for vegetarians and vegans.

Useful traveling tips for asthma patients

Useful traveling tips for asthma patients
Asthma is a long-term condition wherein patients suffer from inflamed airways, making breathing difficult. Asthma triggers may vary from person to person, but some common ones include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. It is crucial to manage asthma symptoms when traveling because it’s hard to figure out what could lead to a flare in a new environment. Find below some traveling tips to avoid trips to the emergency room. Consider seeing your doctor before traveling Before traveling, you should consult a doctor from a regional travel clinic or health department. If you take regular allergy shots, discuss your travel plan with your allergist. Your doctor will be able to refill your prescriptions and tell you more about travel-related risks. They will also be able to give immunization shots if required. Work out an allergic asthma action plan with your doctor. Ask them to provide you with a letter explaining your condition, prescriptions required, and devices needed in an emergency. Keep this letter with you at all times when traveling. Be strategic about your destination Learn about your destination beforehand. Check if medical facilities or hospitals are close by. Get information on the weather condition like smog and humidity.

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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.

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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.
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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.
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