Lung Cancer – Prevention and Home Remedies

Lung Cancer – Prevention and Home Remedies

Lung cancer develops when there is an increase in cancerous cells in lung tissue. Research shows that the number of deaths caused by lung cancer increase every year. Once a person is diagnosed with lung cancer, they surely need medical assistance. It is, therefore, beneficial to follow a few home remedies to prevent the occurrence of lung cancer. Mostly, cancer is caused due to lifestyle choices, genetics, and faulty food habits. There are several reasons for the occurrence of lung cancer. Here are some of the most common ways to prevent it: Quit smoking: It is proven that nine out of ten people who smoke are affected by lung cancer. Smoking damages the lung tissues and covers it with tar, which results in the deficiency of oxygen. It leads to various infections in the lungs, which includes lung cancer. The probability of lung cancer can be reduced if you quit smoking. Beware of passive smoking: Unintentionally taking in cigarette smoke is called passive smoking. Breathing air filled with smoke from burnt cigarettes increases the risk of lung cancer. Though the intake of the smoked air is minimal, there are high chances of being affected by lung cancer, as the air is filled with traces of cancer-causing agents. Staying away from tobacco filled air is definitely a wise way to stay away from lung cancer. Staying away from dangerous gases: People working in industries that involve exposure to dangerous materials such as nickel, chromium, arsenic, and asbestos need to follow proper precautionary methods to prevent their intake. These dangerous materials are known to cause lung cancer. Intake of proper diet and physical activity: A proper, balanced diet with regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is an added advantage, and improves the chances of preventing cancer. Along with a proper diet, a regular exercise routine helps in increasing immunity, which in turn helps the body fight against cancerous cells or infections.
Here are the top 6 food allergies in cats and dogs

Here are the top 6 food allergies in cats and dogs

Here are the top 6 food allergies in cats and dogs Food allergies are exceedingly common among cats and dogs. However, more often than not, the symptoms of a food allergy can go unnoticed by the pet’s parents. If you notice your pet is scratching incessantly or is frequently suffering from problems related to the digestive system, there is a high likelihood that your feline or canine companion is experiencing food allergy. This type of allergy occurs when the immune system of the cat or dog reacts negatively to a particular ingredient in the food. Pet parents should always be on the lookout for food allergy signs and symptoms. In case of a suspicion of a food allergy, a visit to the vet is highly recommended. The vet will then conduct a series of tests including physical examination and blood work. Once done, the vet will conduct an elimination diet trial to determine the food allergen responsible for the troubling symptoms. The elimination diet trial may last for weeks to determine the food allergen that is causing the reactions in the immune system and leading to the development of food allergy. Once the source of the food allergy has been diagnosed, you may have to make required modifications in your pet’s diet and buy cat or dog food that does not have the food allergen. Symptoms of food allergies in cats and dogs You should seek expert advice as soon as you notice the listed symptoms in your pet. Gastrointestinal signs like flatulence, vomiting, or diarrhea Dermatological signs like hair loss and skin redness, itchiness, inflammation, and rashes Chronic ear or foot problems Weight loss Respiratory system issues like coughing, wheezing, sneezing Behavioral problems like scratching and biting fur, restlessness, and frequent shaking Here’s a list of the most commonly reported food allergies in cats and dogs that can cause the aforementioned signs and symptoms in your pet.
Tips to prevent erectile dysfunction naturally

Tips to prevent erectile dysfunction naturally

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is characterized by persistent difficulty in maintaining an adequate erection to engage in sexual intercourse. There are several reasons why men get ED: some include natural aging process while others may be the outcome of an underlying medical condition wherein blood vessels and associated nerves that supply blood to the penis are affected. Herein, we discuss some tips you can try to protect your potency and prevent erectile dysfunction. Follow a healthy diet Anything that is bad for the heart is also bad for the penis. Doctors opine that unhealthy food that may be causing blockages to the coronary arteries in your heart may also be responsible for inadequate sexual performance. People who consume fewer vegetables and fruits and more fatty, fried, and processed foods are at a greater risk of erectile dysfunction. According to experts, the best diet is the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and nuts, as these are fats that are healthy for the heart. Keep weight in check Type 2 diabetes can cause nerve damage that affects the entire body. The nerves that supply blood to the penis may also be affected and this could give rise to erectile dysfunction. Maintaining a healthy weight will also allow you to last longer in bed and have a more satisfying sexual life. You are advised to control your weight through a regimen of healthy food and daily exercise. If you are overweight, do consult a nutritionist and join a gym for good guidance on how to stay in shape. Monitor levels of cholesterol and blood pressure It is important to constantly check your blood pressure and cholesterol. Research shows that high blood pressure and cholesterol can severely affect blood vessels that carry blood to the penis. This will give rise to erectile dysfunction.
6 nutrients that affect the growth of hair

6 nutrients that affect the growth of hair

By following a healthy balanced diet, your hair can become stronger and shinier. Consumption of the right kind of food can also prevent the loss of hair. If a person does not get certain nutrients through their diet, they may see the consequences result in hair loss and hair thinning. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids assure nourishment to the entire head, including the hair shaft as well as the membranes of the cell in one’s scalp. Nourishment of the follicles promotes healthy growth of the hair. It also adds elasticity to the person’s hair which prevents the hair from breaking. Some of the sources of omega-3 fatty acids are grapeseed oil, Brussels sprouts, kale, tuna, salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Zinc Zinc helps in keeping one’s hair and scalp healthy by boosting the tissue repair and growth. It also helps in the regulation of hormones that include testosterone in the men’s body, and enabling the production of glands that secrete oil on the scalp helping the hair to grow. Higher levels of testosterone are associated with the loss of hair. So, one requires only 11 milligrams of zinc per day. The best sources of obtaining zinc are roast beef, veal liver, beef, oysters, wheat germ, and chickpeas. Protein If the hair does not receive adequate amounts of protein, there is a possibility of the person developing bald spots on their head. Also, if a person eats very little amount of protein, the hair will start graying. Therefore, one must follow a diet that has naturally high-quality protein. Foods with good amounts of protein are turkey, chicken, tofu, lentils, peas, beans, peanuts, kale, egg yolk, and Greek yogurt. Iron Iron helps in delivering blood to every cell of the human body. If the iron levels in the body are low, the blood will not transport sufficient amounts of oxygen to the scalp for healthy growth of hair.
List of foods that help boost mental health and fight depression

List of foods that help boost mental health and fight depression

Depression is a health condition characterized by feeling low and out of control of one’s moods for a long time period. Often, there is no specific cause this can be traced back to, but rather, it is the result of multiple factors at play at the same time. Depression has serious effects on one’s physical health and mental health. Individuals lose the motivation to indulge in hobbies, are listless throughout the day, and are unable to partake in their routine activities. Aside from medication and therapy, consuming the right food that can help boost mental health and fight depression is recommended. Foods that help manage the condition Just as some foods are good for the bones, there are some foods that go a long way in helping boost one’s mental health. Fighting depression is a gradual process, and the nutrients and foods listed below aid in the same. Omega-3 fatty acids Nuts like walnuts, fish, avocados are examples of food that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are among the favored foods to fight depression and boost mental health. Antioxidants Foods containing antioxidants help to fight the damage caused by free radicals, which in turn fights depression. Such foods are rich in vitamins. Proteins To help boost mental health in an individual, proteins should form a necessary part of their diet. Food items like eggs, chicken breast, and yogurt are protein-rich help boost mental health and fight depression in a person. Zinc Food containing zinc boosts the immune system of the body and also boosts mental health. Some examples are nuts, beans, and whole grains. Vitamin B Foods containing vitamin B aids in fighting depression and reducing mood swings. Some examples of food that are rich in vitamin B are eggs, oysters, fish, and whole grains. Mushrooms Research has shown that mushrooms are excellent to boost one’s mental health.
Follow these tips to effectively manage multiple myeloma symptoms

Follow these tips to effectively manage multiple myeloma symptoms

Multiple myeloma is a cancer wherein the body’s plasma cells are affected. The American Cancer Society reports that over 30,000 people are expected to be diagnosed with the disease in recent times. Although the disease is not preventable, there are foods that help you to effectively manage multiple myeloma and its symptoms. Malignant plasma cells may cause anemia or other infections. While normal cells try to ward off infections, myeloma cells prevent healthy cells from working efficiently. Myeloma cells instead accelerate bone breakdown, and put off new bone development, thus making fractures and breaks very common. Conventional treatment includes chemotherapy, bisphosphonates, surgery, radiation, and stem cell transplant. Complementary treatments include special diets, herbs, vitamins, massage, and acupressure. Although there are no such proven diets to treat or fight multiple myeloma, a specific nutrition strategy might prevent other symptoms like anemia or kidney damage. It may also reduce the risks of cancer recurrence. Get adequate iron Foods that curb multiple myeloma symptoms contain iron. Multiple myeloma leads to anemia – a condition in which the body contains only a few red blood cells. As a result, it causes weakness and fatigue. Other causes of anemia include deficiency in iron, vitamin B12, and folate. Foods containing iron are an integral part of a diet that aims to help patients with the disease. Some good sources include: Raisins Lean red meat Bell peppers Kale Sweet potatoes Broccoli Brussel sprouts Tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, papaya, guava Foods containing essential folate, a B vitamin that contributes to the formation of white and red blood cells in the bone marrow, include: Asparagus Black-eyed kidney beans Beef liver Lentils Beans Spinach Broccoli Foods containing vitamin B12 work together with folate to help the body form more red blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency can affect the ability of the bone marrow to make as well as maintain red blood cells in patients suffering from multiple myeloma.
Prostate cancer – What you should eat and avoid

Prostate cancer – What you should eat and avoid

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer to occur among men. A diet rich in fats and sugar is widely known to increase the chances of developing this cancer. However, there are certain foods that you should eat and avoid to boost prostate health. Foods to consume: Tomatoes Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant present in tomatoes. This antioxidant reduces cell damage and slows the production of cancer cells. Thus, it effectively prevents prostate cancer from developing, as it reduces the growth of tumors. Though tomatoes, in any form, are beneficial, cooked tomatoes are absorbed by the body more efficiently. One can have it in many forms like spaghetti sauce, ketchup, juice, or puree when cooking. Tomatoes are a must-have in order to avoid the risks of prostate cancer. Broccoli A healthy vegetable, broccoli contains many complex compounds. The sulforaphane phytochemical is one of the compounds that selectively kills cancer cells and leaves normal prostate cells unaffected. Broccoli adds color and a unique taste to your soups, stir-fries, and salads. Green tea Green tea has traditionally been a part of Asian diets for centuries. This is one of the reasons why men in Asian countries do not suffer from this condition as much. Green tea has many components that prevent the development of prostate cancer, making it an ideal choice to avoid the risks of prostate cancer. Start by drinking one cup per day; if you do not prefer the warmth, you can always cool it and have it as a refreshing drink. Legumes and beans Many cancer-fighting properties are found in legumes and beans to make them ideal for consumption. Legumes such as lentils, beans, and peanuts contain active compounds such as phytoestrogen that are known to suppress tumor growth. A black bean burger, hummus, or tofu can be added to your diet.
5 foods that can help ease the symptoms of arthritis

5 foods that can help ease the symptoms of arthritis

Arthritis is a medical condition where the musculoskeletal system, especially the joints where two or more bones meet, causing inflammation in the joints accompanied by pain, swelling, stiffness. There are various forms of arthritis- like bacterial, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, to name a few. Family history, obesity, immune system disorder, injury in the joints are some of the causes of developing arthritis. Treatment of arthritis depends on the type of arthritis one is suffering from. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating healthy foods can help in preventing or easing the symptoms of arthritis. The following food items will help manage the symptoms of arthritis. Foods rich in Omega 3 Fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, and sardines contain anti-inflammatory properties which help in easing the symptoms of arthritis. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 helps in keeping the bones and muscles strong and is also good for a healthy heart and brain. It also helps in reducing the discomfort caused in the joints, especially weight-bearing joints like hips, knees, and feet. Intake of omega-3 also helps in improving flexibility and quick recovery from arthritis. Omega-3 supplements in the form of capsules are also available. Garlic Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic is a great source to ease the symptoms of arthritis. Garlic not only adds taste to the food but also helps in lowering the pain caused due to arthritis because of the properties present in garlic. Not only does garlic helps in easing the symptoms of arthritis but it also contains properties which help in fighting cancer cells, strengthening the immune system and lowering the risk of heart diseases. Garlic can be consumed raw or can be added to food while cooking. Broccoli An important source of carotenoids, fiber and vitamin C, present in broccoli helps in easing the symptoms of arthritis.
7 foods to completely avoid if you have bipolar disorder

7 foods to completely avoid if you have bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental condition wherein a person experiences extreme mood swings. A person’s feelings may go from extremely good to really low in life. Due to the extreme range of symptoms, it often gets tough to diagnose bipolar disorder. There is no cure for it, but the symptoms can be controlled with medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes. Diet is a major contributing factor to this deadly mental disorder. Certain foods can affect your mood majorly while others can have calming effects. Here are some foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder. One should remember that it is vital to take a holistic approach and focus on diet as well as other forms of medication and treatment. Some foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder include: Grapefruit – It has been seen in many cases that some bipolar medicines, particularly anticonvulsants, do not interact appropriately with grapefruit and grapefruit juice. Thus, it is one of the foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder. Caffeine – Caffeine in any form is known to irritate people and make them restless. It could also cause sleeplessness and nervousness. It is also known to suppress hunger. Thus, caffeine intake should be minimized, and the person should be slowly weaned off it. If you suddenly eliminate it from the diet, it could alleviate symptoms, so do it gradually. Any kind of addiction or dependency is damaging in this condition. Thus, it is most certainly one of the foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder. High-fat foods – Any food with a lot of fat content in it will take time to digest and can add to the lethargy levels already prevalent in bipolar patients. Also, fatty foods make it tough for bipolar medications to get absorbed in the body, thereby inhibiting their benefit.
5 foods to relieve constipation

5 foods to relieve constipation

Constipation commonly refers to infrequent or hard to pass bowel movements. When the food moves slowly through the digestive tract, the colon absorbs more water through the food, making the feces dry and hard. In such cases, it becomes difficult to expel them from the body. In such conditions, using laxatives should be a last resort. Constipation can be treated by consuming certain food items and following a balanced diet. There are many choices of food to relieve constipation like those that contain high fiber. Everyone responds differently to foods, but some are known to be effective regardless. Here’s a brief on the foods to relieve constipation: Prunes Prunes or dried plums are one of the most widely used foods to relieve constipation. Readily available in the market, they are high in fiber, containing as much as 2 grams of fiber for every 28 grams of serving. They also contain phenolic compounds and sorbitol that can help relieve bowel movements. A study found that consuming 100 grams of prunes per day has been known to aid digestion significantly. Prunes can be enjoyed in the natural form, or in smoothies, baked foods, salads, and cereals. Apples Apples contain pectin, which increases the beneficial bacteria in the gut, and they provide for about 17% of the daily recommended intake of fiber. They can be consumed in salads, juice, or baked dishes, but they are best when eaten raw and whole. The pectin found in apples can improve the symptoms of constipation and fasten the movement of stool. Apples are an easy and effective food to boost the fiber content in the diet and relieve constipation. Flaxseeds A tablespoon of flaxseeds meets 11% of the daily requirements of fiber and helps in bowel movements as they have a laxative effect and contain fiber.
5 energy-boosting foods for COPD

5 energy-boosting foods for COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) refers to a problem that restricts the flow of air, leading to breathing problems. COPD is caused mainly due to smoking. The other causes of COPD include inhalation of gases, passive smoking, or exposure to pollution. COPD can be classified into three types. The common signs shown by people suffering from COPD are frequent lung infections, cough, and shortness of breath. Although COPD is not curable, it is preventable. Quitting the habit of smoking is the best way one can get relief of COPD. Other options include maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating some energy-boosting foods that help lower the symptoms of COPD. Some energy-boosting foods which should be included for people suffering from COPD include: Whole grains Whole grains like millet, quinoa, and barley are a great source of energy-boosting foods for people with COPD. These grains are rich in vitamins, fiber, protein, and carbohydrates. Moreover, they do not have a high-calorie count. The carbohydrates present in whole grains help boost energy as they do not contain refined carbohydrates; these also provide a filling meal . Consuming whole grain foods help improve the digestion process and maintain a healthy weight. Fresh fruits and vegetables A healthy diet should include a good combination of fresh fruits and vegetables as it provides a lot of nutritional value. It is necessary to include fresh fruits and vegetables, especially if you have COPD, as it will help improve the symptoms. These are high fiber foods that possess antioxidant properties and help boost energy levels. Nuts Full of healthy proteins and unsaturated fats, nuts are perfect to boost energy for those suffering from COPD. Rich in calories, an intake of a handful of nuts helps to prevent COPD-related weight loss issues. Nuts are also rich in fiber and are a great source of vitamin E.
Dietary tips for schizophrenia

Dietary tips for schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, paranoia, fuzzy thinking, delusions, social withdrawal, and cognitive issues. Though treated with a mix of therapy and medicines, diet can help relieve some symptoms and worsen some of them if not considered carefully. People afflicted with schizophrenia generally have unhealthy eating habits leading to other health issues. On consuming foods high in saturated fats and low in fiber can increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Here is a low down on the best and worst foods for schizophrenia. Fruits and vegetables Consume all kinds of fruits ranging from raspberries and apples to pears. Fiber-rich fruits help in lowering the incidence of risks associated with schizophrenia such as diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. One gets an additional benefit of vitamins and minerals from fruits. Veggies are not only low in fats and calories but are also a wholesome source of fiber, vitamins, and nutrients such as potassium. Go for lima beans, sweet potatoes, and kidney beans. Aim to have fresh fruits and vegetables rather than having frozen or pre-cut and dried. Include foods of a variety of colors. Eat five healthy portions during the day. Fish The human body needs essential omega-3 fatty acids but it cannot be made by the body. A growing body of research is pointing towards omega 3 as helping in slowing down the disease progression. The best source for omega 3 fatty acids is mackerel, herring, sardines, salmon, and trout. One can also go for over the counter supplements. Try to eat at least three portions of oily fish to gain benefits of the same. Chicken marinara The symptoms of schizophrenia can be eased by consuming chicken and marinara sauce. Both are rich sources of niacin. Niacin should be taken less than 1 gram per day as higher doses are toxic for the liver.