Foods that are good for digestion

Foods that are good for digestion

Probiotic foods are those that have bacteria that is good for digestion. This includes bacteria like lactobacillus, bifidobacterium that help smooth digestion of food. Sometimes, the good bacteria in the gut can get destroyed due to various reasons. This leads to digestive problems. Consuming food that has probiotics is thus good for digestion. It can improve mental health, reduce depression, improve skin health, and can also be good for the heart. On the other hand, prebiotics are foods that help the probiotic bacteria grow. They have resistant starch and other nutrients that help gut-friendly bacteria flourish. Consuming prebiotics naturally helps good bacteria. Foods like raw bananas, artichokes, and cooked cold potatoes are good prebiotics. Let’s take a look at some of the foods that can improve digestion: Yogurt One of the best sources for probiotics is yogurt. Since it is formed by fermentation of milk, it contains lactic acid bacteria. It helps prevent diarrhea and is also useful for those who have digestive troubles. Those who want a healthier option can choose low-fat yogurt without sugar. Sauerkraut Sauerkraut is a good probiotic. However, only unpasteurized sauerkraut should be consumed as it is safer. Miso soup This popular Japanese soup is made from soy paste that has been fermented. It is rich in probiotics and vitamins and low in calories and fat. Kefir Kefir is a milk drink that is made from goat’s milk and is fermented. The fermentation ensures the presence of probiotics. Apart from the positive effect on the stomach, it is also good for bone health and improves general immunity. Tempeh Tempeh is a fermented product that contains probiotics and is made from soybeans. Apart from the probiotic benefit, it also has vitamin B12 that is essential for the body. Sourdough bread This is a type of bread that is fermented and is thus rich in probiotics.
Boost prostate health with these foods

Boost prostate health with these foods

The prostate is a tiny gland in the body responsible for producing seminal fluids. Certain risk factors like old age, genetics, and race can affect the prostate and lead to health problems. These include the unnatural enlargement of the prostate, prostate inflammation, and prostate cancer. Fortunately, consuming certain foods and treatments, such as those listed below, can help control prostate-related issues. Foods to boost prostate health Fish Fish like herring, salmon, and lake trout are loaded with polyunsaturated fats like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. They help reduce harmful cholesterol levels and manage high blood pressure, even reducing the chances of a heart attack. These health improvements are highly beneficial for better prostate health. Nuts Pecans, walnuts, and almonds are a few nuts rich in healthy fats. They are also known to significantly improve brain health. Another good source of vital nutrients is Brazil nuts, which are rich in vitamin E, calcium, and selenium. Together, these nutrients are known to lower the chances of developing prostate cancer. Berries Adding berries to your meals can significantly help improve prostate health. Blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Antioxidants prevent any cell damage that may be caused by certain molecules, therefore avoiding the risk of cancer. Vitamin C can alleviate the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) through urination and reducing any swelling. Watermelon Watermelon is rich in vitamin A and C and is also sodium and fat-free. All these aspects make this an ideal fruit to boost overall well being. The fruit also contains lycopene – an antioxidant known to reduce any potential cancer risk. Medications to improve prostate health Alpha-blockers Prescription medications such as Alfuzosin (Uroxatral), Prazosin (Minipress), Silodosin (Rapaflo), Tamsulosin (Flomax), and Terazosin (Hytrin) can relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, making it easy to urinate.
5 home remedies for dry eyes

5 home remedies for dry eyes

When the tear ducts in the eyes do not produce enough lubrication due to some internal or external factors, it often causes dry eyes. The symptoms of dry eyes include redness in the eyes, itching, inflammation, and discomfort. After any other underlying medical causes have been ruled out, one can try home remedies to reduce the symptoms of dry eyes. Some common home remedies for the condition are described as follows. Drink more water Drinking more water throughout the day can help prevent a wide range of health issues. It is important to drink at least 8-12 glasses of water throughout the day instead of chugging a lot of water in one go. Having dry eyes is a common sign of dehydration in the body. Drinking more water every day will ensure that one has enough water in the body for the eyes to remain lubricated at all times. This can help in reducing dryness in the eyes and offer more comfort. Eat natural fatty acids It has been observed that omega-3 fatty acids can largely help in reducing the symptoms of dry eyes. Thus, if one has been experiencing dryness in the eyes, they can add more fatty foods to their meals. This includes fish like tuna, salmon, or sardines, and nuts, such as almonds and walnuts. Using certain oils like palm oil or soybean oil can also help replenish omega-3 fatty acids in the body and help lessen the symptoms of dry eyes. Blink frequently Sometimes, dry eyes can be a result of staring at a computer screen and mobile phone for long periods. Blinking more frequently or taking a break every few minutes can reduce the evaporation of fluids from the eyes and help them stay hydrated. One can also try lowering the brightness of the computer screen slightly to slow down the evaporation of liquid from the eyes.
7 heart-healthy foods to combat atrial fibrillation

7 heart-healthy foods to combat atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and rapid heart rhythm that causes blood clots in the heart. It can further lead to an increase in the risk of strokes, heart failure, and other cardiac conditions. And though there are treatments like medication, therapy, and catheter procedures for the condition, you must also consider including these foods in your regular meal plan for a healthy heart. Bananas Lack of nutrients, especially potassium in the body, can put you at a higher risk for AFib. So you must have nutrient-rich fruits like bananas. They are rich in potassium, which in turn help manage atrial fibrillation. But make sure to eat fresh fruits and not canned ones, as the latter contain excessive sugars that prove unsafe for the body. Blueberries Blueberries can also help manage the symptoms of AFib. Research suggests that berries contain antioxidants. So having just one cup of blueberries a day may help improve blood pressure and lower atrial stiffness for postmenopausal women in pre-and stage 1 hypertension. Nuts Nuts like almonds and walnuts are rich in protein, fibers, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, minerals, folate, and more. Therefore, consuming these nuts multiple times a week can help reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation and curb the possibility of heart failure. Greek yogurt Greek yogurt is a source of protein that is a crucial requirement to fight AFib. Proteins can prevent the loss of bone mass and lean muscle mass. Yogurt also has significant levels of magnesium, which also complement the rhythm of the heart. However, avoid flavored yogurts as they are high in sugar content and other unhealthy additives. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in potassium and help the muscles function to their highest potential. It is also a good source of antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin A and C, and folic acid, which are beneficial for a healthy lifestyle.
5 natural supplements and vitamins to treat tardive dyskinesia

5 natural supplements and vitamins to treat tardive dyskinesia

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a rare neurological disorder in which individuals experience involuntary and unusual movements in the mouth and the surrounding muscles. Some patients may also experience symptoms in the neck, arms, or legs. This disorder occurs as a result of prolonged usage of certain neuroleptics medication. These medicines are often prescribed to manage mental, neurological, or gastrointestinal disorders and are usually only prescribed for a shorter period of time. Tardive dyskinesia can be treated with the help of medication and certain natural vitamins and supplements. Some such vitamins and supplements and their natural sources are: Manganese When suffering from medication-induced tardive dyskinesia, the doctors may prescribe certain medicines that contain the appropriate amount of manganese. This condition can be prevented by ingesting at least 15 milligrams of manganese in a day, either through supplements or natural sources, such as nuts, soy, whole grains, and leafy vegetables. Vitamin E Vitamin E is an essential vitamin that is necessary for the smooth functioning of the body. This vitamin is a group of eight fat-soluble compounds (four tocopherols and four tocotrienols) that act as antioxidants in the body. When an individual suffers from tardive dyskinesia, the doctor may advise them to consume vitamin E supplements daily. Foods that are rich sources of vitamin E include seeds, nuts, green leafy vegetables, or vegetable oils. Ginkgo biloba One of the most commonly recommended natural remedies to help reverse tardive dyskinesia is Ginkgo biloba. This plant is incredibly rich in powerful antioxidants and is said to be quite effective in neurological and psychological disorders. Ginkgo biloba can also help in improving brain function and heart health. Moreover, it helps in reducing reduce anxiety and depression to some extent. Vitamin B6 Consuming vitamin B6 while undergoing treatment for tardive dyskinesia is quite helpful in reducing the overall symptoms to some extent.
Best foods for managing asthma symptoms

Best foods for managing asthma symptoms

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and other symptoms. There is no cure for it; medicines can only help manage the discomforts and improve the quality of life. Furthermore, nutrition plays a vital role. Eating healthy prevents the symptoms from flaring up frequently and makes the condition more manageable. This article lists a few foods that help get rid of asthma attacks naturally. Fruits and veggies Fruits and vegetables provide the necessary vitamins and minerals to keep asthma attacks and symptoms at bay. Vitamin A helps improve lung function and can be sourced from leafy greens like kale, spinach, romaine lettuce, and broccoli. Spinach and Swiss chard also have magnesium that helps improve lung function, while sweet potatoes and carrots are rich in beta carotene. When it comes to fruits, apples and oranges are the best foods that help get rid of asthma attacks. They are loaded with vitamins C and E that effectively counter lung inflammation. Bananas are another rich source of potassium and antioxidants that help relieve wheezing in asthma patients. Foods fortified with vitamin D Vitamin D is one of the most crucial nutrients to fight asthma. Studies show that this vitamin helps reduce the risk of childhood asthma among kids between ages six and 15. While one can absorb vitamin D from sunlight, options like salmon, eggs, fortified milk, and orange juice are the best foods that help manage asthma symptoms naturally. Snacks, bread, and cereals fortified with vitamin D are other options to boost immunity and keep asthma attacks in check. Besides vitamin D, salmon also has omega-3 fatty acids that can counter inflammation and manage breathing difficulties. Root herbs and spices Ginger is an effective root herb that can soothe respiratory discomforts associated with asthma attacks.
5 foods that help ease arthritis symptoms

5 foods that help ease arthritis symptoms

Arthritis is a health condition where one or more joints swell and become tender. This leads to symptoms such as stiffness and joint pain, which subsequently worsen with age. There are treatments to deal with different forms of arthritis that help reduce its symptoms and make life easier. Studies also show combining treatments with certain foods helps get rid of arthritis or reduces its symptoms. Leafy green vegetables Leafy greens contain high levels of vitamins E and vitamin C. A few leafy green vegetables are kale, spinach, cabbage, beet greens, collard greens, watercress, arugula, and Bok choy. Vitamin C helps produce collagen, facilitating joint flexibility. Vitamin E is known to ward off inflammatory molecules from the body. Berries When it comes to foods to help get rid of arthritis naturally, berries deserve a spot on your grocery list. Just like all fruits, berries are rich in antioxidants, which are known to help eliminate potential inflammations. Also, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries contain anthocyanins that help reduce inflammation. Fatty fish Fishes like mackerel, salmon, and tuna help deal with the symptoms of arthritis. These are rich in vitamin D and contain Omega-3 fatty acids that can significantly reduce any inflammation in the body. While you should consider eating fish a couple of times a week, an alternative solution is consuming fish oil supplements. Extra virgin olive oil Unlike regular cooking oils – which undoubtedly carry several health hazards – olive oil is highly beneficial to the human body. It contains heart-healthy fats. Olive oil also shields the body from bone loss when combined with vitamin D. It also contains oleocanthal – a compound that prevents the production of inflammatory properties in the body. Nuts Nuts are replete with magnesium, calcium, fibers, zinc, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts serve as anti-inflammatory agents that help deal with this condition.
Healthy foods to keep bladder problems at bay

Healthy foods to keep bladder problems at bay

Good nutrition can turn around a person’s health, preventing varied illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It helps improve the overall quality of life, enhancing productivity, agility, and mental health. This article discusses the foods that help improve bladder control and help manage the symptoms that come with the condition. Let’s take a look at this compiled list. Nuts, seeds, and legumes These foods are a potent source of fiber that helps enhance the work of the digestive tract. Quick digestion aids in lowering the pressure a full stomach can have on the bladder, which may multiply the symptoms of an overactive bladder. This category includes foods like black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, split peas, lentils, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds, among others. The idea is to consume more plant-based foods over refined and overly processed ingredients. Non-citrus fruits and vegetables Citrus foods can irritate the bladder, leading to intense bladder control symptoms. Hence, foods like lime, lemon, oranges, grapefruit, citrons, etc., are best avoided. Foods recommended to add to one’s meals include sweet potato with skin, broccoli, pears, green beans, winter squash, and peas. Lean meat and fish Fresh lean meat and fish are a good choice for people with bladder control issues. Additionally, fish like mackerel, salmon, shellfish, and tuna are potent sources of monosaturated fats that are good for bladder health. If one doesn’t eat fish, they can opt for flax seeds and nuts. Oats, oatmeal, and homemade bread These are recommended staple options for one to add to their daily food regime. These whole grain options are easy on the digestive system and also come with the benefits of fiber, making them a great satiating option that’s good for the bladder. Eggs and cheese These two breakfast staples can be a part of the daily nutrition for a healthy bladder.
Foods that people with eczema should avoid

Foods that people with eczema should avoid

Eczema, scientifically known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that leads to dry and itchy skin on the body. It is usually caused by inflammation. One can tackle this condition’s symptoms by eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones. The wrong foods can often trigger flares and worsen the condition. Read on to learn more about the foods that should be eliminated from your meals if you have eczema. Cow’s milk Cow’s milk is one of the most common eczema triggers in children. In rare cases, it can also cause flares in adults. However, completely removing milk and dairy products from a child’s meals can lead to vitamin and other deficiencies. Instead, this food should be avoided only in cases of severe eczema. Doctors can also suggest food substitutes for cow’s milk. Eggs Eggs are commonly known as eczema triggers in both adults and children. While the reason behind this is unknown, studies show that almost 70% of those who have eczema are allergic to eggs. Aside from this, long-term consumption of raw eggs can lead to biotin deficiency, triggering eczema. Soy Soy and soy products are rich in amines that can trigger eczema. Individuals suffering from eczema can avoid soy by reading the labels carefully because soy is present in many foods including chocolate and tea. Tomatoes Those suffering from eczema should avoid tomatoes and foods that contain tomatoes. Tomatoes are rich in salicylates, amines, and natural MSG. All these chemicals are known to trigger an eczema flare. Peanuts Peanut is one of the most common allergens across the globe. It is so common that people with eczema are more likely to develop a peanut allergy. It is crucial to avoid peanuts and foods containing peanuts to prevent an eczema flare-up. Oranges, kiwis, and grapes All three fruits are highly acidic and are rich sources of salicylates and amines.
8 Foods That Trigger Migraine Headaches

8 Foods That Trigger Migraine Headaches

Migraine is a neurological condition that is often accompanied by a host of painful and discomforting symptoms like sensitivity to light, dizziness, and nausea or vomiting. To cope with this, it is important to identify the common triggers of a migraine headache. Studies say that frequently reported migraine triggers are food items, and eliminating these food items, or at least limiting their consumption, is crucial for treatment: Chocolate Chocolate is often considered to be a risky migraine trigger and is among the most common triggers as it is replete with caffeine. Chocolate also contains the amino acid tyramine that adds to the intensity of the headaches. However, chocolates also have dopamine and serotonin, which are beneficial, so consuming chocolate in moderation may prove to be beneficial for the treatment. Caffeine An occasional cup of coffee does not cause a painful migraine attack, but drinking coffee or caffeinated drinks regularly can worsen the frequency and severity of headaches. Due to its vasoconstrictive properties, caffeine restricts blood flow to the brain, causing relief in the case of a painful headache, but it is best to avoid too much of coffee if you experience frequent headaches. Frozen foods Studies show that there is a strong link between frozen foods and migraine headaches. Consumption of frozen foods like ice cream, frozen yogurt, a slush, and such may provoke strong headaches. These items contain substances that affect blood flow to the brain, leading to headaches that develop into migraines. Salty foods Salty foods are the most common triggers as high consumption of salty foods raises the sodium levels in your blood and increases blood pressure, which could increase the risk of migraine. Avoid eating too much salt or salty and processed food to prevent it. Pickled and fermented foods Pickled and fermented foods contain high levels of tyramine, which may trigger migraine headaches.
5 Home Remedies For Migraine Headaches

5 Home Remedies For Migraine Headaches

Since ages, people all over the world have used a collection of home remedies to ease the symptoms of migraines. Many of these remedies have stood the test of time as they are safe, easily available, and effective in treating the painful and uncomfortable condition. While there are numerous over-the-counter medications available for treatment, there are also remedies to help you cope with this condition naturally: Use an ice pack Using cold therapy is an age-old method to get relief from migraine headaches. It is one of the most effective home remedies you can use for the treatment of this condition. Applying an ice pack can help lessen the throbbing pain. Studies have found that applying an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes can relieve discomfort and pain caused by migraine. Alternatively, you can wrap a few ice cubes in a piece of cloth and use it as a neck wrap to reduce the pain. Regardless of whether you are experiencing dull or intense pain, you can use this easy and safe home remedy to get relief. Use butterbur For ages, people have used butterbur root extract for the treatment of migraine. This traditional herbal remedy is believed to significantly lower the intensity of headaches, and this plant extract can reduce the frequency at which the headaches occur. You can consume 75 mg of butterbur root extract twice a day to get effective relief from the painful symptoms. Using this natural remedy for 3 to 4 months can help you cope with this neurological disorder. Essential oils Essential oils are renowned for the therapeutic properties that enable them to ease the pain caused by conditions like a migraine. These oils are often used for aromatherapy to reduce the severity of the pain and induce calmness and relaxation. Essential oils like peppermint and lavender oils are widely used for relieving migraine symptoms and to induce sleep.
All You Need to Know About Home Remedies for Arthritis

All You Need to Know About Home Remedies for Arthritis

Arthritis is an auto-immune disease which causes stiffness and pain in your joints due to inflammation. It can occur due to a variety of reasons and is uncurable. Arthritis worsens with age and decreased immunity. You can, however, take measures to prevent it. Additionally, the symptoms can be reduced with certain home remedies, treatments, and diets. Here are some natural home remedies that can reduce the effects of arthritis are: Exercise It might be hard to exercise, but it can have a highly positive effect on your health and body. Exercising can reduce the swelling caused by arthritis. Aerobics, balance moves, strength training, etc, are some of the best types of exercises to help you with joint pain caused by arthritis. Heat treatment Heat treatments through heating pads or warm towels help ease the pain. However, make sure the temperature is not too high, as that might burn your skin. Hot tubs are an alternative to soothe and relax stiff muscles. Heat treatment encourages blood flow and soothes the pain in your joints. If you are pregnant or have high blood pressure, make sure you consult your doctor before using this method Cold treatment An ice pack is pressed on to the affected area to reduce inflammation and stiffness. But one should not overdo it and take intervals every half an hour in order to avoid any complications. Magnets You can indulge in magnet therapy by using multiple methods like pads, disks, necklaces, and bracelets. However, this method is more efficient to treat osteoarthritis. Acupuncture Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine which uses fine needles to stimulate energy along the meridians of your body. The idea is to correct the body’s energy imbalances. It has been proven to lower the production of chemicals that cause inflammation and reduce the pain caused by arthritis.