A beautiful smile can be your biggest asset, and as strange as it may sound, you can get pearly whites by adding some foods to your diet! Our diet plays a key role not only in improving our health but also our teeth. A balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, water, and dairy products will not only guarantee an optimum weight but also a ravishing smile. Top foods that help whiten teeth naturally Strawberries: They contain an enzyme known as malic acid which is known to whiten teeth naturally. You can mash strawberries and apply it on the teeth. After around five minutes, you may rinse it with water and floss. Apples : Apples are one of the foods that help whiten teeth naturally because chewing it produces a scrubbing effect. Apple contains high amounts of malic acid, a common ingredient in toothpaste. This stimulates saliva production which acts as a self-cleaning agent and helps destroy bacteria that are responsible for bad breath. Pineapple: It contains bromelain which has cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties; this is why it is used for making stain-removing toothpaste. Broccoli: Being rich in fiber, broccoli helps reduce inflammation of the mouth. When you eat raw broccoli, your teeth are automatically cleaned and polished. The European Journal of Dentistry states that iron in this vegetable builds a protective wall for your teeth against acids which can degrade the enamel. So, broccoli is one of the foods that can help whiten teeth naturally by removing stains and preventing cavities. Raisins: They may be sweet but they protect your teeth. When you eat bran cereal with raisins, you can cleanse your mouth much faster. Moreover, chewing raisins stimulates saliva secretion and thus prevents the growth of plaque, cavities, and stains. Carrots: Chewing carrot increases the production of saliva in the mouth which cleans it; moreover, vitamin A in carrots boosts enamel growth.

Gout pain can become unbearable if not treated properly. It might be an activity which requires a change in the lifestyle and also proper medications. There are some basic steps to get relief from an acute gout attack. First and foremost, one should put an ice pack on the affected area and drink more water. Sometimes stress can also be a cause of gout attack, so one needs to keep patience. With the increase in age, the pain gets more unbearable, and the chances of getting gout attacks are high. So a proper maintenance of lifestyle is very important along with regular doctor checkups and proper body examinations. Normally a gout attack stays for a week and then it goes away, sometime it may take more than a year. But even after getting relief after a gout attack, it may come back later sometime. So it is important to consult a doctor for further treatment and to maintain the lifestyle required to fight the pain. Some of the medicines often prescribed by doctors are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for quick relief from pain and swelling of the foot. If such medicines can be taken within 24 hours, they can be very effective. Also, there are corticosteroids, which can be both injected or consumed directly. It can be injected directly if other medicines fail to do the job. Normally, it also starts working within 24 hours after taking them. A 2000-year-old technique used to get relief from gout pain is the cochicine. It is obtained from plants. Just like all medicines used for treating gout, cochicine is also very effective and is still a popular remedy to fight the pain. An increase in the level of the uric acid in the blood is one of the main causes of a gout attack.

It is crucial to keep the lungs healthy in order to prevent the onset and escalation of serious conditions. There is a possibility that harmful toxins in the environment and consumption of inflammatory foods can lead to ailments such as chronic MAC infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis. Altering lifestyles and eating a nutrient-rich food regime can boost lung health. Here are five foods that can improve the function of the lungs. Beetroots and beet greens Beetroots are beneficial for the lungs, as they contain nitrates that relax blood vessels, decrease blood pressure, and improve oxygen levels in the body. On the other hand, beet greens are rich in magnesium and potassium, both minerals that boost lung health and help manage chronic MAC disease. Apples Apples, filled with beneficial flavonoids and a phytonutrient called quercetin, have always been known to keep doctors at bay. This fruit also contains phytochemicals that help keep your lungs healthy and your throat passageways clear. Apples contain all the good antioxidants that prevent chronic ailments. Ginger This immunity booster is an age-old remedy that helps keep the respiratory system healthy. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory spice and relaxes muscles of the lung tissue. A cup of ginger tea after your last meal aids digestion too. Bananas Bananas strengthen the heart and prevent oxidative damage of cells caused by free radicals. It is loaded with potassium and fibers that help promote lung function. Bananas are one of the fruits that people of all ages can consume. Tomatoes Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant that improves lung health, and tomatoes are full of them. They help in reducing inflammation of the airways in patients with asthma. Tomatoes boost immunity, too, as they are rich in potassium and vitamin C. In patients with severe lung conditions, doctors may recommend a change in lifestyle and antibiotics like Esbriet.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) occurs when the body abnormally grows cells in the gastrointestinal linings. These abnormally growing cells have the potential to develop into cancer and must therefore be treated as early as possible. This type of growth can be observed anywhere along the digestive tract, but it is most commonly observed in the stomach and small intestine. Causes of GIST The abnormal growth of cells associated with GIST is typically observed in special cells in the body known as interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs). These cells are responsible for regulating the involuntary movements that occur in the gastrointestinal tract. According to certain studies, it is assumed that this abnormality in cells is induced as a result of abnormalities or certain mutations found in the DNA. Such mutations result in the improper behavior of the enzyme tyrosine kinase (KIT). Signs and symptoms of GIST In most cases, this condition goes undiagnosed for a long period of time, as the symptoms aren’t obvious. In certain cases, when the condition progresses, the following symptoms may be observed: Abdominal pain and discomfort Small bumps felt through the skin of the abdomen Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Loss of appetite and feeling full quickly Bowel obstruction Treatment options for GIST Once the condition is diagnosed, the doctors will recommend several treatment options based on its severity. Here are some common treatment options for GIST: Surgery Surgery is one of the most common and conventional approaches to tackling tumors and has been practiced for a long time in the cancer industry. However, if the cancerous cells are widespread and highly powerful, a single surgery would be ineffective in many cases and cannot be relied on as a stand-alone treatment option. Chemotherapy and radiation For larger and more aggressive tumors, doctors may suggest chemotherapy or radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells and prevent these cells from growing back.

Deodorants and antiperspirants for sensitive skin work differently owing to their chemical composition. While deodorants help actively reduce underarm odor, antiperspirants block sweating. Some skincare products provide both benefits in the same product. However, the main concern is the type of chemicals used while making the formula. Most products available in the market contain some biochemical composition that can trigger irritation and allergies for people with sensitive skin. Harmful chemicals in deodorants and antiperspirants Skincare products manufactured for underarms contain the following chemicals. These compounds can become toxic with regular use. Aluminum Aluminum salts help prevent excessive sweating. But studies indicate harmful effects of continued use linked to an increase in certain types of cancers, kidney diseases, bone problems, and even cognitive issues. Parabens Parabens, a type of artificial preservative, are used in most branded deodorants and antiperspirants. And these compounds get absorbed by the skin easily. Studies show that parabens interfere with hormones in the body and increase the risk of breast cancer with regular use. Triclosan Triclosan contains antimicrobial properties that fight body odor. Research suggests that exposure to the ingredient increases the risk of endocrine disorders. Best recommended natural deodorants and antiperspirants Dermatologists suggest the use of skincare products that are free of parabens and active compounds to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Native Sensitive Deodorant Native Sensitive Deodorant is made with naturally obtained ingredients, boasts a vegan blend, and is completely aluminum or baking soda free. Regular use prevents sweating and odor problems with a long-lasting effect. The product is available in eight unique combinations of classic and limited-edition scents priced at just about $13. Nécessaire The Deodorant The dermatology evaluated product, Nécessaire The Deodorant, contains no aluminum, parabens, or even synthetic fragrances. The hypoallergenic deodorant keeps the skin dry by absorbing moisture and provides long-lasting comfort.

A rare class of disorders called myelodysplastic syndrome prevents the body from producing healthy blood cells. It is also referred to as “bone marrow failure.” Although it affects people of any age, this rare type of cancer primarily affects the elderly, particularly those over 65. A blood test is usually used to detect or diagnose this condition. The symptoms are fatigue and shortness of breath. Some of the treatments for this condition are listed below. Treatment options for myelodysplastic syndromes The primary goals of myelodysplastic syndrome treatment are to reduce the illness’ progression, ameliorate its symptoms, and avoid complications. Since this condition has no known cure, certain treatments may limit its progression. Transfusion therapy Transfusion therapy (blood transfusion) replaces blood cells destroyed by illness or treatment by infusing red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. A red blood cell transfusion is administered when the blood cell count is low and signs of anemia, such as shortness of breath or fatigue, occur. A platelet transfusion is frequently given to a patient undergoing a procedure that may result in bleeding or a low platelet count. Besides, patients who frequently receive blood transfusions may suffer tissue and organ damage from excess iron accumulation. These patients may receive iron chelation therapy to eliminate the excess iron from the blood. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a method of eliminating damaged cells by preventing them from dividing and growing. A chemotherapy schedule, or regimen, typically consists of a set number of rounds administered over a set period. Conventional chemotherapy may help people with high-risk MDS subtypes. Depending on the patient and the dosage used, this type of therapy may cause fatigue, an increased risk of infection, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, a loss of appetite, and diarrhea. When the treatment is over, these side effects usually disappear.

Many people suffer from a headache on a daily basis. A headache is caused due to various reasons like stress at work, common cold and it can even pop up without any reason. But at times, a headache may be more persistent and irritating than always. One of the reasons for this to happen could be a sinus. A sinus headache is usually accompanied by a runny nose, facial pain, and nasal congestion. It is a chronic or an acute disease that has affected the daily lives of countless people. You can also be among them if you don’t take precautions to prevent it. For more information about the causes and remedies for sinus, please read on. What are sinuses? These are empty glands that are connected to the hollow cavities of the skull. The common misunderstanding that people possess about these glands is that there are only two of these present at the beginning of the bridge of the nose. Actually, these glands are present over the entire nasal path and vary in size. This misconception of only two sinuses arose as sinus headaches were acute at two points residing at the starting of the nose bridge. These are actually the Frontal Sinuses. There are sinuses between your eyes and even in the bones behind your nose. The largest sinuses, the maxillary sinuses are located in your cheekbones. Their main purpose is to help humidify and filter the air. Their purpose is still a hypothetical statement. Even experts don’t know the reason for the existence of the sinuses. Symptoms of sinus headaches The sinus infection (Sinusitis) is caused due to the inflation in the nasal cavity. This causes blockages and eventually severe headaches. Before deciding the remedies for sinus, one needs to know the symptoms that indicate a presence of sinusitis.

Probiotics are the bacteria that naturally occur in the gastrointestinal tract. These are indeed an important part of the digestive system and are responsible for a lot of important tasks. These micro-biomes are extremely important for our life. Probiotics help in eradicating the bacteria that cause illness and infection. They also help in producing the enzymes that are required to break the food down and are known to produce nutrients as well. This might make you wonder how probiotics and constipation are related. Well, there is an important connection between the two. Having the right bacteria in the gut helps with the digestion process. The bacteria in colon and intestines break down the stool so that it can easily pass through. This also helps a lot with dehydration which makes the stools harder to pass. When the bad bacteria in your gut are more than the good bacteria, it can lead to a lot of bowel problems including gas. Therefore, probiotics are extremely important for proper digestion. Importance of probiotics Now that you know that probiotics are important and help with constipation, you might be wondering as to why you need extra probiotics when the body produces it naturally. The reason behind it is the sedentary lifestyle and the dietary habits of the modern world. We fail to maintain the crucial balance in the gut that is ideal. Moreover, most of us usually are too dehydrated and eat a lot of sugary foods that actually feed the bad bacteria. This is why we need extra probiotics to help us to keep the balance. These days, due to a lot of medication, the balance tends to be missing. A lot of antibiotics will kill both the good and bad bacteria in the gut. This is why there is nothing left to actually break down the food.

Is there a connection between your heart’s irregular rhythm and a brain stroke? When it comes to brain strokes, most people know that having high blood pressure puts you at increased risk of suffering a stroke. High blood pressure is perhaps the most common potential risk factor for strokes. However, it is by no means the most powerful one. It might come as a surprise to you but Afib or Atrial Fibrillation is the single most powerful potential risk factor for brain strokes! In fact, a person with high blood pressure has twice the chance of getting a stroke, whereas a person with Afib is 5 times more likely to get an Afib stroke as compared to those that do not suffer from this heart condition. Afib affects your heart, while a stroke happens in the brain, what’s the connection? It all comes down to how the brain functions. This unique organ requires nourishment in the form of constantly supplied blood and oxygen. These nutrients are sent to the brain by the pumping of the arteries. If the brain does not receive this nourishment, brain cells begin to die rapidly. A stroke is simply defined as a “sudden loss of brain function”. In general, strokes are the result of an artery bursting or getting clogged. In the case of a person with high blood pressure going through a stroke, the cause is the weakening of the arteries due to the sheer force with which the blood is being pumped. As the name suggests, people with “high blood pressure” have their blood pumped by the arteries at a very high pressure. Over a period of time, more and more arteries of a person’s body get damaged due to the high pressure pumping. Some of these arteries are the ones that supply blood to the brain.

Asthma is the inflammation of the airway of the lungs that causes you to have difficulty in breathing and gives you intense feelings of shortness of breath. Asthma is caused by genetic and environmental factors and almost anything could cause an asthma attack. These causes are called triggers and the most common triggers are pollen, dust, mold, change in weathers, allergens in the air, irritants such as cigarette smoke or even some medicines. Asthma is much more difficult to manage if it is accompanied by other health conditions such as a runny nose, sinus infection, psychological stress or sleep apnea. The experience of Asthma is different for every person and you have to track what triggers your asthma the most in order to control it. The symptoms of Asthma are many and there are a few that you just cannot miss. 1. Uncontrollable coughing: If you find yourself unable to control that cough making it difficult to function, you have a case of Asthma. The cough may be continuous making it extremely hard to sleep. Likewise, it is noticed that the coughing can be worse during early morning or late at night. The cough accompanied by congestion can also feel painful while being extremely difficult to control. 2. Shortness of Breath: You may feel like you cannot breathe or catch your breath. This difficulty in breathing is caused by chronic inflammation of the airway. Almost anything can cause this inflammation, and the first step to preventing an asthma attack is to identify the trigger. 3. Tightening of the chest: A sense of tightening of the chest may also be felt during an asthma attack that could make one feel extremely uncomfortable. This chest tightening can occur during an attack along with coughing or shortness of breath. The chest tightening feels like something may be squeezing your lungs and not allowing you to breathe.

A hiatal hernia is a condition where the upper stomach region pushes into the chest region. Hiatus is an opening between the stomach and diaphragm area. The diaphragm is a muscle which helps in the breathing process, the stomach area pushes itself into the diaphragm through the opening called hiatus. Normally People above the age 50 suffer from this condition. The causes for a hiatal hernia are not exactly known. In many people, an injury to the muscle tissue or damage caused to the muscle tissue can cause this condition. Another cause is the repeated pressure faced by the muscles around the stomach due to coughing, strain during bowel movements, the strain caused due to lifting heavy objects etc. Some people are born with this condition. Some factors such as obesity, old age, lifestyle habits can cause a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia can be classified into two types known as sliding Hiatal hernias and fixed Hiatal hernias. A sliding hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach and esophagus are a common type of hernias where the stomach and esophagus push into the chest area through hiatus. These hernias are small and usually don’t require any treatment. Another type of a hiatal hernia is the fixed hiatal hernia. In fixed hiatal hernia also known as a para esophageal hernia, the upper part of the stomach can push through the diaphragm and stays there. Many such cases of fixed hiatal hernia are not serious but the flow of the blood to the stomach can be stopped in some cases which can cause a serious issue. A hiatal hernia is diagnosed using a specialized x-ray where the doctor can see the esophagus or a hernia can be diagnosed through endoscopy. The symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain can be related to fixed hiatal hernia and should be diagnosed properly for this condition.

A blocked nose could be one of the worse health conditions. Blocked nose puts a person in a delirious state where you cannot breathe and smell properly. In many cases, it also affects the general concentration level of the person. In such a situation, you can take the help of over-the-counter nasal sprays. Although such drugs often work as a charm, its prolonged usage could not just diminish the level of working of the nasal spray but in many situations, a person becomes immune to the effects of the nasal spray. This is a form of nasal spray allergy. Nasal sprays work by shrinking the congested blood vessels and thus, the blocked passages of the nose are clear. However, after a certain span of time, these blood vessels no longer respond to the medicine. You keep spraying your favorite and most trusted brand but without any effect! This is one of the main reasons why such topical nasal spray bottles come with a direction instructing that you must not use the medicine for more than 5 days at a stretch. Nasal spray allergies: A worse rebound People often do not give much importance to such warnings provided on nasal spray bottles. In fact, many think that nothing bad could happen if they take nasal sprays for a couple of more days. This is one of the wrong notions that are entertained by a lot of people. Often when a decongestant is taken for a long time, it has worse effects on the person. A nasal spray allergy is one such bad effect. A person with nasal spray allergy can have itchy and watery eyes. Often the nasal congestion is so stubborn that it just does not go away. In many cases, these sprays do not give the results you are looking for.