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6 common habits that affect bone health

6 common habits that affect bone health
The human body produces new bone cells faster when a person is young. But as one ages, especially after 30, the bone density begins to decline. For women, maintaining bone mass is crucial to avoid developing conditions like osteoporosis. While bone deterioration with age cannot be avoided, adopting good lifestyle choices allows one to maintain optimal health at each stage of life. Here are some everyday habits that impair bone health. Bad posture Poor posture for an extended period of time puts unnecessary pressure on one’s muscles and spine. In the long run, it can worsen one’s risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition that makes the bones fragile due to tissue loss. So, one is advised to work on keeping the spine erect and aligned. Not eating calcium-rich foods Calcium is an important component that keeps the bones healthy and strong. The human body cannot make calcium; it is often taken from the foods that one eats. Not eating calcium-rich foods can adversely impact one’s bone health and increase the risk of fractures. Milk, cheese, yogurt, and dairy products are rich sources of calcium. Those who are lactose intolerant can opt for non-dairy calcium-rich alternatives like tofu, almonds, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, spinach, kale, sardines, salmon, white beans, and collard greens.

6 unhealthy habits that can affect eyes and vision

6 unhealthy habits that can affect eyes and vision
Eye care is an integral aspect of one’s general health. However, unbeknownst to many, certain unhealthy nutritional and lifestyle habits can trigger damage to this vital organ. It can include staring at the screen for longer periods, constantly rubbing one’s eyes, and more. Such habits can lead to complications such as eye fatigue and damage to the cornea. Awareness of such unhealthy habits might help one manage them and keep such complications at bay. Excessive screen time Most health experts advise patients with vision problems to follow the 20-20-20 rule while using screens. This rule emphasizes that every 20 minutes of looking at a screen should be followed up by focusing on a spot 20 feet away from you for 20 seconds. Excessive screen time can trigger retinal damage and eye fatigue, and this activity helps reduce the strain on your eyes. Blinking is another way of ensuring your eyes are clean and lubricated. Make it a habit to blink when using screens. Rubbing your eyes Rubbing your eyes can lead to severe complications in the long run. For one, it is impossible to stop rubbing once you have started. Excessively rubbing your eyes can cause microvascular damage to the smaller blood vessels.

5 habits that can raise the risk of blood clots

5 habits that can raise the risk of blood clots
Blood clots are gel-like masses that can clog one’s blood vessels. They are made of platelets, proteins, and cells. They can restrict blood flow while moving through the bloodstream or stick to the walls of tiny blood vessels. Clots can affect any part of the body and be life-threatening if they block vitals like the lungs, heart, or brain. Here are some common habits and risk factors that can affect one’s blood circulation over time. Habits to avoid Here are some habits that cause blood clots: Sitting for a prolonged time The modern lifestyle may require one to sit at a desk in front of computers for a long time. Doctors warn that sitting for an extended period can pose a health risk and lead to many health concerns. When one does not move for hours, the blood gets pooled in one place. The flow is also restricted, especially in one’s legs, increasing the risk of blood clotting. Wearing tight clothing and shoes Tight clothes, including jeans or high heels, can make it difficult for blood to flow freely through the body, especially to the legs. Apart from this, tight clothing can also compress the intestines and affect abdominal health, leading to pain or heartburn.

6 mistakes one must avoid while showering

6 mistakes one must avoid while showering
A shower can help to drive any tiredness and other morning blues away. However, there are certain bathing mistakes that can reduce the effectiveness of a shower. When one makes these mistakes, they prevent themselves from enjoying the whole range of health benefits bathing brings with it. Additionally, some of these can cause health issues as well. Having said that, here are six such mistakes to avoid while showering that one must be aware of. Showering for too long Spending hours on end in the shower may seem like a luxury, but long showers are a prime reason for skin dehydration. Dermatologists advise people against indulging in long showers as they can gradually peel away skin layers such as epidermal barriers and lipids. This exposes the skin to health conditions such as eczema. Ideally, one must shower for no longer than 10 to 15 minutes. At most, that time can be extended by a couple of minutes. However, if one spends any longer than that in the shower, they are actively causing harm to their skin. Using products that are harsh on the skin Products that have abrasive components can strip essential oils, moisture, elasticity, and other sensitive and vital components of the skin.

Constipation signs and causes that should not be ignored

Constipation signs and causes that should not be ignored
Constipation is a gastrointestinal problem characterized by infrequent bowel movements, which can be less than three times a week. The stool consistency may be hard and dry, and one may find it difficult or painful to pass it. Moreover, chronic constipation may last several weeks and usually affects a person’s quality of life. Constipation is a curable condition and the cause and severity of the condition may vary from person to person. Constipation signs Inability to pass stool The obvious sign of constipation is hard stool that may be painful to pass. Those who are constipated may feel the urge to go to the bathroom but may find it difficult to pass stool. Dry stool consistency The usual stool consistency of a constipated person is hard and dry, and it may require strain to empty the bowel. Additionally, bowel movement is also hampered. Inability to pass gas and bloating An inability to pass gas is a common sign of constipation and this can cause bloating or abdominal discomfort. These symptoms may lead one to feel full quicker than usual after eating regular meals. One may also experience cramping or stomach aches. Sluggishness and loss of appetite Since the waste matter is not pushed out of the system, it may lead one to feel sluggish.

9 common side effects of periods

9 common side effects of periods
Periods are a part of the monthly menstrual cycle for people with a uterus. It is the shedding of the uterine lining in the form of blood and other fluids and tissue that may last for 3-7 days. Approximately 5 days to 2 weeks before its arrival, 90% of people who menstruate may feel certain symptoms. This is collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some of the most common side effects or symptoms of periods include: Abdominal cramps Menstrual cramps, also known as primary dysmenorrhea, cause an achy or cramping feeling in the lower abdomen, lower back, and upper thighs. Their severity may range from dull or mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with one’s daily activities. People with conditions like endometriosis, cervical stenosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and fibroids may experience worse cramps during their menstrual cycle. Gas and bloating Some people also experience a sensation of heaviness in the stomach or may struggle to zip up their pants. This is also known as bloating and is caused due to changing hormone levels which lead to higher retention of water in the body. For most people, the worst bloating occurs on the day their period begins. The body’s hormonal changes also impact bowel functioning and can lead to gas, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.

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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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