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Steer clear of these 6 foods to manage autism spectrum disorder

Steer clear of these 6 foods to manage autism spectrum disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), better known as autism, is a developmental condition that affects brain function. In most cases, symptoms such as delayed speech begin to show before the child turns 3. Furthermore, there are chances that the patient’s symptoms might worsen after eating certain food items; hence it’s best to avoid them. Keep reading to learn more about food choices that affect the quality of life in autism patients. Foods to avoid for autism patients After the diagnosis of ASD, doctors may suggest a few changes in the patient’s food plan. It can happen due to food aversions, gastrointestinal disorders, food allergies, and more reasons. Hence, here is a list of foods that autism patients must avoid. Sugar In most cases, people with autism show signs of hyperactivity. Hence, doctors may advise either a cut down in the sugar content or that sugar should be eliminated from the meal plan. It may help maintain optimum sugar levels that do not trigger hyperactivity. Moreover, sugar is pro-inflammatory and increases erratic brain cell firing. Corn Multiple studies indicate that the glyphosate herbicide found in corn increases the risk of autism. Furthermore, corn also has the most unhealthy fatty acid content and may promote inflammation.

6 early signs of autism in children

6 early signs of autism in children
Autism is a common developmental and neurological disorder that affects 1 in 100 children. It develops early in life, usually in 2-year-old children. To recognize autism spectrum disorder and get an early diagnosis, parents should learn about the warning signs of the condition. One should also get their children screened for autism spectrum disorder. Early diagnosis ensures that those affected get the necessary intervention and treatment options to improve their quality of life. Avoiding eye contact Most infants and toddlers can maintain eye contact with people around them. At just two months, babies can find faces and make eye contact with the people talking to them. Eye contact is also crucial for building a social relationship and being aware of the surroundings. Children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder may not maintain eye contact as much as other children do. If one notices their child increasingly avoiding eye contact, this could be an early sign of autism. Delayed speech Kids begin with mumbling and move on to words and sentences at varying ages. However, those with autism have been found to understand fewer words and instructions at 12 months than non-autistic children. If one has not developed the ability to form individual words or a few phrases comfortably by the age of 2, it can be an early sign of autism.

5 foods that may help lower prostate cancer risk

5 foods that may help lower prostate cancer risk
Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate, the gland that produces seminal fluid to nourish and transport sperm. It is one of the most common cancer types and is generally confined to the gland. Nutrition can help reduce prostate cancer incidence and manage cancer progression risk. Eating healthy is associated with increased energy levels, improved recovery, and an enhanced immune system. Therefore, here are the top 5 foods to eat for better management: Berries Berries, such as strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are a great source of antioxidants known as anthocyanins. These antioxidants help to neutralize and remove free radicals, which cause oxidative stress in the body, thus aiding in the process of proper DNA replication for new cells and reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Broccoli is also a prostate superfood, as it contains glucoraphanin, a phytochemical that can target and prevent cancer growth. Cruciferous vegetables have also been linked to lower levels of inflammation, thus reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Fish Cold-water fish like salmon, snapper, sardines, and trout contain good fats (omega-3 fatty acids) that ease inflammation.

5 early warning signs of prostate cancer to look out for

5 early warning signs of prostate cancer to look out for
The prostate is a small gland located beneath the bladder in the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer develops when there’s abnormal cell growth in one’s prostate gland. The disease progresses slowly, and its early stages are mainly asymptomatic. The chance of successful treatment is highest while the cancer is still confined to the gland. If left untreated, however, it can cause many health complications. Here are a few early signs that should prompt a prostate cancer screening. Early signs of prostate cancer Early stages of prostate cancer usually have no visible signs, but those in more advanced stages may exhibit the following symptoms: Issues with urination and bladder control The prostate gland is in proximity to the bladder, and the urethra responsible for one’s urination and sexual activity. So, one may feel the urge to empty one’s bladder more frequently or experience a burning sensation or pain while urinating. The urine flow may be weak and one may find it challenging to start or stop the flow. One may also find blood in urine or semen and a sudden shift in one’s usual bowel habits. Fatigue and nausea Cancerous cells consume a lot of energy and leave one feeling fatigued and nauseous.

8 foods to avoid with multiple myeloma

8 foods to avoid with multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma or white blood cell cancer. The primary function of plasma cells is to develop antibodies to help fight infections. However, in the case of MM, healthy cells convert to abnormal ones, causing the production of antibodies called M proteins and indicating MM’s onset. A healthy lifestyle and curated meal plan are essential while undergoing treatment. Here’s a list of some foods patients with multiple myeloma must avoid: Raw meat Raw meat contains harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which can cause food poisoning and weaken the immune system. Such foods can worsen MM symptoms, as patients with this condition already suffer from low immunity. Unpasteurized milk Like raw meat, unpasteurized or raw milk also contains harmful bacteria like Campylobacter, E. Coli, Listeria, and Brucella. In addition, it can pose serious health risks to all individuals, particularly those already suffering from debilitating health conditions like MM. Deep-fried foods Fried foods contain high levels of trans and saturated fats, increasing one’s risk for lifestyle diseases like cholesterol and cardiovascular conditions. Since individuals with MM do not have healthy antibodies, they are more susceptible to such health risks than others. Thus, it is advisable for patients with MM to avoid deep-fried foods, replacing them with sauteed, steamed, or boiled alternatives.

6 common tax return filing mistakes to avoid

6 common tax return filing mistakes to avoid
Tax return filing is a strenuous process for many people. Although preparing tax returns may feel unpleasant, it is crucial to avoid making mistakes. While mistakes may not necessarily involve an audit from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), they may invite additional penalties or smaller refunds. Due to these factors, it is imperative to be aware of the common errors people make when filing their tax returns and ensure to avoid them. Not following the latest tax news Changes in tax laws may impact how you file your returns. Therefore, it is essential to keep up with the news. You should know which tax return you are filing and have access to the most current information about the same. For instance, people over 65 qualify to file for Form 1040-SR, while non-resident aliens who earned their income through work efforts in the country during the tax year must file Form 1040-NR. Tax preparation software can help you choose the correct form. Being unaware of your filing status Knowing your tax filing status can help you save time and money. For instance, filing as the head of the household (someone who has a dependent and pays for over 50% of all household expenses) offers more favorable tax rates than filing as a single taxpayer.

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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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