Home | Travel

4 fun activity ideas for Christmas

4 fun activity ideas for Christmas
Christmas is right on the horizon, and it might get difficult for some of you to hold onto your excitement. And rightly so, it is like the oscar of the festivals, where there’s family time, entertainment, and a lot of gifts and sweets. As much as we love keeping up the traditions, it doesn’t hurt to change things up a little. Here are a few ideas that can give you one more reason to celebrate the impending celebration. Have a gift wrapping race As the holiday season approaches, everyone gets busy shopping for gifts and then wrapping them. This year make this activity a full-fledged event. Inform everyone beforehand so that you all can arrange cardboard or plain boxes and Christmas cards on time. This will help you keep things a surprise for the giftee, and you can have a fun time seeing how lousy the packaging can get if there is a clock ticking in the background. DIY holiday cards If you’re looking for an activity that would keep everyone right from kids to grandparents occupied, this might be the one for you. Arrange a family day where you all sit around the table reminiscing about your older Xmas memories and favorite things about the holiday season.

5 best foods for relieving migraine headaches

5 best foods for relieving migraine headaches
Migraines is one of the most prevalent illness in the world. It is triggered by several factors like weather, noise, smell, bright lights, and stress. People who suffer from this condition often rely on medications for relief. Although there are various of medicines available for numbing the pain, several of them come with unwanted side effects. Here’s some info on foods that will help in getting relief from migraine attacks. Bananas An easy way to prevent migraines or an episode of hypoglycemia is having high-carb foods like bananas, granola bars, or candy. According to experts, bananas are a great fruit for quick recovery as they are rich sources of magnesium that helps relieve headaches. Bananas are also good for hydration as they contain about 74 percent water. Watermelon Having a juicy slice of watermelon provides instant hydration as it contains 92 percent water. According to the American Migraine Foundation, one in three people state that dehydration is a migraine trigger for them. Adding a few cubes of watermelon in your salads will help in relieving a migraine headache. Seeds and nuts One of the most common causes of cluster or persistent headaches is low magnesium levels in the body. The severity of migraines can be reduced by including magnesium-rich food in your daily meals.

Foods to eat and home remedies to manage the flu

Foods to eat and home remedies to manage the flu
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory condition that attacks the respiratory system, such as the nose, lungs, and throat. It may lead to symptoms like fatigue, chills, body aches, fever, and nasal congestion. The illness may range from mild to severe. Fortunately, symptoms can be brought under control by over-the-counter medications. If the condition is not as severe, home remedies and eating certain foods can help alleviate the symptoms of the flu. Foods to manage symptoms of the flu Chicken soup Chicken soup is one of the best foods to eat to manage the flu. The broth helps prevent dehydration, while its warm composition relieves congestion and a sore throat. Likewise, the chicken chunks, rich in iron and proteins, help boost the immune system. Yogurt Research shows that yogurt helps ease a sore throat and even boosts the immune system. It is a rich source of protein and probiotics that help fight off the flu. However, it is essential to avoid purchasing yogurt that has added sugar. Instead, choose unsweetened Greek yogurt. Leafy greens Green leafy vegetables are known to provide several health benefits to the human body. Leafy greens like kale, spinach, cabbage, and beet green contain vitamin C and E and iron.

3 Antarctica cruises to explore in 2022

3 Antarctica cruises to explore in 2022
When we think of holidays, Antarctica is often the last place on our minds. This continent is not known for its friendliness to visitors, but climate change and human persistence have changed that. During the summer months of November to March, the ice shrinks, allowing tourists to explore one of the most mysterious parts of the world. If you’re planning to visit, take a look at the top 3 Antarctica cruises with airfare options. Swoop Antarctica Start your journey from Punta Arenas, Chile, from where you fly to King George Islands in the South Shetland Islands, bypassing the 2-day sail on the Drake Passage. You then embark on the 68-passenger expedition ship, which will house you for the duration of your trip. Depending on your itinerary, which can be 8 to 12 days, you will visit various islands, sit in on educational lectures, go snorkeling, kayaking, and whale watching, among others. Prices range approximately from $10,000 to $15,000 per person. They can go higher depending on your choice of accommodation. Adventure Life Adventure Life has a variety of Antarctica cruises. From small expedition ships, luxury ships, or fly and cruise combinations, every voyage has optional activities like skiing, sea kayaking, and camping.

Macular degeneration – Early symptoms and foods that may help prevent it

Macular degeneration – Early symptoms and foods that may help prevent it
Macular degeneration is a condition in which the center of the eye, also known as the macula, undergoes certain changes that lead to loss of vision. Since this condition is observed as a result of aging, it is also called age-related macular degeneration or AMD. This condition, if not managed properly, can lead to complete loss of vision and is one of the biggest causes of blindness in people over 55 years of age. Early warning signs There are some early warning signs that the elderly must look out for when suspecting macular degeneration. Some of them are as follows: Distortion and blurred vision If the vision starts to blur with age and one notices distortion or wavy lines in the field of vision, it is quite possible that one may be in the early stages of AMD. Those who are over 50 years of age should not ignore such blurred vision since they are more vulnerable to macular degeneration. Dark spots in central vision Generally, the central part of one’s field of vision ought to be the clearest with no blurriness or distortion. If one begins to notice shadows, white spots, or dark spots in this part, it is highly possible that one is suffering from AMD.

Cancer prevention and management – Foods to eat and avoid

Cancer prevention and management – Foods to eat and avoid
The development of certain conditions like ovarian, blood, lung, prostate, or breast cancer has been linked to the food we eat. While that is not the only cause, and no particular food treats cancer completely, making healthy food choices can drastically reduce the risk of developing cancer. This article provides some details on foods to eat and avoid along with information on (CAR) T-cell therapy to manage various types of cancers. Foods to avoid Red meat Red meat is typically preserved by curing, smoking, salting, or canning. Foods like hot dogs, salami, sausage, ham, and beef jerky are known to create carcinogens that are associated with colorectal and stomach cancer. It is recommended to replace processed meats with white fish, chicken, or turkey. Alcohol Alcohol, classified as a group 1 carcinogen, is linked with mouth, throat, esophagus, breast, liver, stomach, and bowel cancer. The risk of cancer varies significantly on the amount and frequency of drinking alcohol. A glass of wine now and then does not have much of a negative effect; however, frequent binge-drinking episodes can increase one’s risk of being diagnosed with cancer. Refined carbs and sugar Eating excessive refined carbs and sugar increases visceral fat and makes one susceptible to type 2 diabetes.

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