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3 human foods that are unsafe for cats

3 human foods that are unsafe for cats
It’s common to share your food with your cat. But, many do not know that this gesture of love and affection could actually be harmful to them. Most human foods contain elements that could be toxic to cats and cause serious medical conditions. So, you need to ensure that you do not accidentally feed your cat human foods. To help you, here are a few human foods that you should not give your cats. Chocolate Chocolates are one of the most harmful foods for cats, as they contain methylxanthines that are toxic to most animals. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and in worse cases, can even prove to be fatal to cats. Dark chocolates contain the most amount of methylxanthines, whereas white chocolate contains the least. Despite these varying proportions of harmful substances, chocolate as a whole is best left off your cat’s meal plan. Dairy and dairy products There is a huge misconception that dairy and dairy products are great for cats. But, in reality, most cats are lactose intolerant, which means consuming dairy could lead to digestive problems and make them ill. Of course, the best thing to do is avoid dairy completely, but you could also ask the vet for a lactose-free alternative.

3 human foods that dogs should never eat

3 human foods that dogs should never eat
We often cannot resist the urge to give our pet dogs a treat or two. After all, it’s hard to ignore those beady eyes below the dining table every time you have a meal. However, it is important to note that not all foods made for humans are good for your pets. Some of them are harmful and can threaten the pet’s wellbeing. Here are a few human foods to avoid for dogs. Chocolate Chocolate is one product that is found in abundance at home. Hence, it is crucial to keep it far from your dog’s reach. Chocolate can be toxic to pets and can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, lethargy, and increased thirst. Coffee Coffee contains caffeine – an ingredient that can be extremely toxic to your pet. This goes for any other caffeine-based product too, which can be equally bad for your pet doggo. In fact, such foods are bad even for the human body and should not be consumed in excess. Citrus Citrus tree parts such as stems, fruit, seeds, leaves, peels, and plants contain citric acid and other essential oils that can lead to irritation. Consuming such items can also cause depression of the nervous system when eaten in excess.

4 human foods that cats can enjoy

4 human foods that cats can enjoy
Our pet cats are part of the family. So, it is quite normal and common to want to share your food with them. But when it comes to giving them treats off your plate, you should be careful. This is because some human foods can be harmful; however, there is an extensive list of foods that are perfectly safe for them. Read on to find out more about human foods that are safe for cats. Fish Fish is one of the best human foods that you can treat your pet cat to. But of course, not all fish is good for your cat. You want to stick to oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna to ensure they get the essential omega-3 fatty acids and other vitamins and nutrients. Fatty fish is known to help with eyesight, reduce joint pain, and improve brain function in cats and humans. Note that it is crucial to cook any fish you are feeding your cat to avoid digestive troubles. Meat Meat is another great human food that you can feed your cat. They are rich in protein and provide lots of nourishment when cooked healthily. But remember, meat also contains tons of bacteria such as E.coli, which can make your cat sick.

3 easy home remedies for heartworms in dogs

3 easy home remedies for heartworms in dogs
Heartworm disease is a serious medical condition that affects many animals. It is caused by a parasitic worm that spreads through the bite of a mosquito. If undetected, heartworms often result in severe lung infections, organ damage, and even heart failure. There are many options available to prevent this parasitic infection. In this article, there are a few easy home remedies that can help treat heartworms in dogs. Pumpkin seeds Pumpkin seeds are a great home remedy when it comes to deworming your pet dog. They contain an amino acid known as cucurbitacin that eliminates worms from the intestine. They have proved to be an effective treatment in removing heartworms from dogs. The best way to feed your dog pumpkin seed is by drying them, removing the shell, and grounding the seeds into powder. You can then sprinkle it onto your pet’s food until the heartworm dies. Carrots Another great remedy for worms in dogs is carrots. Carrot is a high-fiber veggie. That removes any mucus and parasites residing within the walls of the gut and stomach during digestion. The parasites are then eliminated from the body along with fiber content. When it comes to heartworm, carrots could help by producing anti-parasitic compounds.

Top 4 foods that help manage seizures

Top 4 foods that help manage seizures
Seizures are characterized by sudden and uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. Studies suggest that there are ways to manage seizures. These include making certain changes in eating habits and lifestyle. Just like doing regular exercise is vital for overall well-being, a wholesome, nutrient-dense healthy food regimen is essential for the proper functioning of the body. This article lists those foods that can help decrease the intensity, frequency, and duration of seizures. Fluids like water Hydration is key to staying well and managing seizures better. Having the right amount of fluids, especially water, is said to have a great impact on the health and lifestyle of patients that experience seizures. Additionally, it is also a crucial part of a balanced and nourishing meal regimen. Keeping well-hydrated ensures that the body and blood have enough nutrients and oxygen to carry out their day-to-day functions and transfer nutrients to the brain and body without delay. Healthy fat sources like nuts Healthy fats or mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids found in avocados and fish are responsible for the increase in the amount of healthy or HDL levels in the body. Having enough healthy fats is crucial, as they play an important part in the production and distribution of micronutrients, vitamins, as well as various hormones in the body.

Common food allergies and their symptoms

Common food allergies and their symptoms
Allergies are characterized by the immune system’s abnormal reaction to harmless foreign substances like latex, pollen, and certain foods. Food allergies are quite common, making it difficult for some to enjoy a whole palate of ingredients. Fortunately, many get tested early on to understand what foods they are allergic to and even get medical help. Some develop these allergies quite later on in life. Here are some common food allergies to look out for. Common food allergies Peanuts This is one of the most common food allergies. One can expect typical allergic symptoms like rashes, hives, and swelling of the throat. However, the symptoms might be severe and cause an anaphylaxis reaction. Several people develop a peanut allergy early, so it is essential to speak to a doctor about managing it. Shellfish A protein called tropomyosin, found in marine animals, particularly shellfish like scallops, lobsters, crayfish, shrimps, and prawns, can trigger allergic reactions in some. Other proteins like arginine kinase and myosin found in these shellfish are also responsible for triggering an allergic reaction, leading to rashes, swelling, hives, or vomiting. There is no way to cure this, so the best way to manage its symptoms is for one to eliminate it from their food regimen.

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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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