For several generations, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been known to cure ailments and promote healthy living. But only a few know that it also helps to lose weight. If you want to find out more about how apple cider vinegar helps you to lose weight, then read further. Apple cider vinegar is a result of a two-step fermentation of apples. The apples are crushed in a container after which yeast is added. The yeast converts all the sugar in the apples into alcohol. After which healthy bacteria is added that turns alcohol into acetic acid (ethanoic acid). The traditional method of preparing apple cider vinegar takes about a month, but with advanced technology, this process is reduced to just a day. Today a single day is sufficient to produce apple cider vinegar in large quantities. The acetic acid is the main and active component of the resulting solution. It gives the vinegar a sour taste and a characteristic strong odor. This occupies about 5-6% of the vinegar, along with which you can also find traces of water and some other acids as well. A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar contains just about three calories and almost no carbohydrates. Acetic acid is a short chain of fatty acids which help dissolve hydrogen and acetate in your body. This acid has been tested several times to understand how it helps in weight loss. Some of this is listed below. Helps lower blood sugar levels: The acid helps the liver and the muscles absorb more sugar from the blood to lower the blood sugar levels. Reduces insulin: A high production of insulin avoids the body from losing weight. Acetic acid helps reduce the production of insulin to allow fat to be burned off more easily. Increases metabolism: An enzyme called AMPK (Activated Protein Kinase) plays a major role in digestion and metabolism.

When you feel pain in your lower back, you will find it difficult to do some of the basic chores of your daily life like walking, bending your back to pick up something, or even climbing stairs. The condition of your lower back hip doesn’t have to be like this all the time. You can improve this condition with the help of some simple measures. Here is what you can do to control your lower back hip pain. Hot And Cold Treatment Using both ice and a hot water bag are very much beneficial as far as your lower back hip pain is concerned. You need to keep order if you need maximum results. After you have an injury, first you have to apply ice, and then you need to use a hot water bag. As you feel pain on your lower back, ice it for the first 24 to 48 hours. There are some ways you can apply ice and reap maximum benefits. Here is how you should be doing it: Buy a cool pack or get a plastic bag and fill it with ice. Now, wrap the ice pack or bag in a cloth to protect your skin. Apply the ice bag on the lower portion of your back for more than 10 minutes at a single time. Repeat this throughout the day when you feel the pain. Give yourself a break of at least 10 minutes before each application of the ice. You could get tempted to apply heat on the point where you feel pain at first. Doing so will increase more inflammatory compounds that might worsen the situation. After 48 hours of applying ice, you can start applying heat on that place of your pain. You should also be avoiding the application of heat all night because that might burn your skin.

H Pylori or Helicobacter Pylori is a type of bacteria that enter your body and find accommodation in your digestive tract. These types of bacteria survive in your digestive tract for several years, and they develop sores known as ulcers in the upper area of your small intestine or the stomach lining. Over time, this infection can result in stomach cancer. Symptoms of H Pylori infection is pretty common, and many humans and animals have these bacteria in their bodies. In a majority of the people, they do not cause an ulcer. Even if this bacterium causes an infection, it can be treated with the help of medicines. Better sanitation and clean water offer protection against these germs. The following symptoms of H Pylori infection can help conduct a better and timely diagnosis of the same. Flatulence, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation Stomach acids play a critical role in the immune system. They kill the bacteria and other harmful parasites that are absorbed through food and drinking water. Other functions of stomach acids include promoting protein digestion and encouraging the pancreas to produce digestive juices. The H Pylori bacteria interfere with the stomach acids in your body to cause digestive issues. Therefore, you experience diarrhea, bloating, constipation, and flatulence as well. Vomiting and nausea When the digestive process becomes abnormal, the entire functioning of the body gets damaged. That is what happens when one begins to show symptoms of H Pylori infection. Several patients have to deal with nausea when they get affected by this bacterial infection. Some patients show a vomiting tendency as well. It is easily mistaken for morning sickness due to pregnancy. GERD and Heartburn Do you frequently suffer from GERD (Acid Reflux) or heartburn? If you experience these symptoms of H Pylori infection, you might be suffering from the same.

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a rare type of blood-cell cancer that starts in the bone marrow. Generally common among older adults, this type of leukemia is caused due to spontaneous chromosome mutation. Treatments usually include chemotherapy, biological therapy, stem cell transplant, and targeted therapy. Along with these treatments, it is essential to pay close attention to diet as well. Here are a few important dietary recommendations for those with chronic myeloid leukemia. Eat lots of vegetables It is recommended that one should have steamed vegetables to get all the essential nutrients. Stir-fries are also a healthy option; a stir-fried meal of carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and an assortment of peppers not only tastes good but also has several important vitamins and minerals. Another option is making soups, especially from green leafy vegetables including chard, collard greens, mustard greens, kale, and spinach. Vegetable juice with low-sodium content is also recommended. Increase servings of fresh fruits Those suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia should have five to ten servings of fruits every day. Fresh fruits are one of the richest sources of nutrients that fight cancer cells. Fruits contain all the essential vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Make sure to add fruits to salads, breakfast cereals, yogurt, smoothies, pancakes, and wherever possible so that the daily dietary requirement is fulfilled. Eat tummy-soothing foods One of the most common treatment options for leukemia is chemotherapy. While this treatment kills cancerous cells, it wreaks havoc on the digestive system with side effects such as nausea and vomiting. At such times, it is advisable to eat foods that cool down the stomach. Avoid spicy foods and caffeine. Instead opt for crackers, camomile tea, popsicles, ginger ale, and other clear liquid-based food. Avoid uncooked food Chronic myeloid leukemia treatments often lead to low levels of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell.

Chronic myeloid leukemia, which is also called chronic myelogenous leukemia, is a cancer of the bone marrow. It essentially leads to the increased production of white blood cells in the blood. When an individual is battling leukemia, they may feel fatigued, and their immune system can get compromised. This makes proper nutrition intake extremely important. It helps patients feel better during and after the treatment by maintaining strength and speeding recovery. Here are some foods that can help people manage chronic myeloid leukemia. Protein-rich foods Protein is necessary for repairing cells and tissues and strengthening the immune system. It is recommended that people with chronic myeloid leukemia eat at least one meal a day that contains a good source of lean protein such as chicken, fish, or turkey. Some other protein-rich sources include eggs, soy and soy products, beans, nuts and nut butter, and low-fat dairy products. Probiotics These are healthy bacteria the stomach needs to manage food better and keep the body healthy. Yogurt is one of the most popular and easily available sources of probiotics. Make sure the label says “Live and Active Culture,” an indication that the yogurt has probiotics in it. Other good sources include kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, miso, and tempeh. Wide variety of fruits and vegetables The diet of individuals with chronic myeloid leukemia must consist of a variety of fruits and vegetables. Besides being rich in vitamins and minerals, these foods are packed with antioxidants and contain phytochemicals, which are known to fight cancer cells. One can top cereals with their favorite fruits, drink smoothies, or enjoy a bowl of berries for dessert. Try to include these fruits and veggies in the daily diet: apples, bananas, strawberries, leafy greens, cauliflower, and broccoli. Whole grains Whole grains are an excellent source of carbohydrates and fibers, both of which are required to maintain healthy energy levels during and after the treatment.

When it comes to dog food, one size does not fit all as different canine breeds have varying needs. Also, due to growing concerns about the use of synthetic and artificial food additives in commercially available pet food, more people are switching to organic and all-natural variants among the hundreds of options available. Here we bring you the top brands that manufacture the best organic pet food for dogs. Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Natural Balance is grain-free pet food that also has no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors. One of the popular formulas is made with high-quality duck protein and carbohydrate-rich potatoes and features in the Limited Ingredient Diet® series. It is one of the best dog food options for pets suffering from food allergies or acute sensitivities as most are triggered by an improper food source. Popular formulas include Chicken & Sweet Potato, Sweet Potato & Venison, and Sweet potato & Fish. Of the few organic options, Natural Balance is not the most economical one but is well worth the premium. Castor & Pollux Natural Ultramix ® Adult Dog Food To keep their energy up throughout the day, adult dogs need a wholesome meal, full of nutrition and great taste. Created by Castor & Pollux, Natural Ultramix® is premium adult dog food (dry variant) completely free of corn, soy, and wheat. Made with chicken and farm-grown vegetables, along with other poultry and fish-based protein sources, the food mix also boasts essential nutrients for healthy growth. The formula helps maintain a shiny thick coat and supplements healthy bone and teeth growth. Blue Buffalo Co. Blue Buffalo Co. ensures a healthy and holistic approach to manufacturing pet food using natural ingredients with just the right balance of organic supplements. The formula excludes any artificial flavoring, coloring or preservatives, wheat, soy, and corn.

One loves pampering their pet dogs with the best of foods and treats. This often means that you may indulge in sharing some of your foods with them. But dogs have a different digestive system compared to humans. This means that some of the foods that you enjoy could actually be harmful to them. This article discusses foods that are safe for your dog and provide them with necessary nutrients. Carrots Carrots are known for their nutritional benefits for humans. They are loaded with vitamins and beta-carotene that help promote heart, eyes, and skin health. Carrots are also super good for dogs. Carrots help remove plaque buildup from your pet’s teeth, helping maintain good dental health. Their nutritional content can also help improve a dog’s immune health, promoting a shiny coat and skin. Chicken Dogs love chicken meals and chicken broth, and these foods are also healthy for them. Plain-boiled chicken is a great option for when your dog has an upset tummy. It is important to remember that you should give them this food with little to no seasonings. Popcorn Popcorn is a great snack for humans and dogs. They contain minerals such as magnesium and zinc that can help both you and your dog stay healthy. The only thing that you need to keep in mind when serving your dog popcorn is that the snack needs to be completely devoid of any butter, salt, or sugar. Ensure that you do not give them any uncooked kernels, as this can cause them to choke. While human foods act as great treats for your dog, you may want to consider dog food for all your pet’s nutritional needs. Some of the most popular brands of dog food include the following. Royal Canin Royal Canin is one of the most popular dog food brands across the globe.

No diet or food can prevent or trigger breast cancer immediately. However, what you eat will certainly make a big difference to the risks of developing breast cancer. Getting breast cancer depends on multiple factors like family history, gender, age, etc., that are not in your control. Diet is perhaps one of the factors which you can control and change to minimize the risks of developing breast cancer. If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer already, you may want to know which foods to avoid to ensure that cancer does not grow further or relapse after you recover. Research shows that dietary factors may account for almost 30-40% of all types of cancers. Your dietary choices affect the way you live and determine how healthy you are. There has been plenty of research on breast cancer and there are some helpful guidelines which can benefit patients. You need to stay healthy after treatment by controlling your body weight, exercising regularly, and eating the right kind of foods to cut down risks of cancer relapse. There is no magic diet to eliminate the risks of breast cancer. However, breast cancer survivors need to eat more vegetables, whole grains, fresh fruits, fish, and chicken. Listed below are the foods you should avoid if you already have breast cancer, or want to prevent it from occurring. Alcohol Studies have found a probable connection between increased risks of breast cancer and regular alcohol consumption. According to reports, alcohol tends to elevate the estrogen levels; this damages the DNA. Women who drink three alcoholic drinks every week increase their risks of developing breast cancer by almost 15%. Sugar In a research conducted on mice, it was seen that when the mice were given foods rich in sugar, they developed tumors in the mammary gland, which are similar to breast cancer tumors in human beings.

Foods to avoid if one has colitis Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum, which make up for a major part of the large intestine. It can cause symptoms like bleeding from the rectum, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These can flare up due to various triggers, with food being one of the major ones. A low-fat, low-salt, high-calorie, low-fiber and gluten-free diet is the best diet to follow for those who suffer from colitis. There are certain foods can result in the aggravation of the symptoms of the condition, read on to know more. Gluten Foods that have gluten, like wheat, rye, and barley can cause allergies in some people. It can also lead to the development of symptoms similar to those seen in ulcerative colitis in those who have gluten sensitivity. This is why the ingredient is high on the list of foods to be avoided. Alcohol Alcohol can irritate the stomach and worsen the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. It must be avoided or consumed in moderation and ideally, one should either drink alcohol with a meal instead of on an empty stomach. High-fiber foods High-fiber foods like adzuki beans, peas, lentils, and legumes can cause bloating and gas and can worsen the symptoms of colitis. Fibrous vegetables can be consumed after skinning and deseeding them as the skin contains most of the fiber content. If they are cooked until they become soft, they can be eaten safely as this prevents problems after consumption. Fibrous fruits that are raw, dried, and have seeds can cause problems and must be avoided. Fruit juice can be consumed, except prune juice. Sulfur Sulfate is an essential nutrient that assists in many body processes. But, in individuals with ulcerative colitis, its presence can feed bacteria that creat H2S toxic gas which can lead to bloating and discomfort.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that attacks the central nervous system and has a potential to cause permanent disability. The condition is serious, affecting the brain and the spinal cord. When the protective sheath – myelin, is attacked by the immune system, multiple sclerosis is triggered. The nerve fibers are damaged due to lack of myelin and this leads to damage to the nerve signals between the brain and other body parts which further affects the communication process. The illness can also lead to deterioration and permanent damage to the nerves with each passing day. Multiple sclerosis has serious effects on the body and this entirely depends on the extent of damage to the nerves. The symptoms may differ from the nerve that is attacked. Moreover, every individual will experience different types of signs and symptoms. Some of the commonly experienced symptoms include: Thinking problems – An individual begins to find it difficult in understanding things and suffers from memory loss. Abstraction and processing information becomes a huge task for the patient. Loss of vision – Due to this disease, one has to also go through the loss of vision, either in one eye or both. Even the smallest eye movement stimulates excruciating pain to the patient. Color-distortion can also be one of the symptoms. Sensory feelings – One experiences sudden tingling in certain body parts. Such unexpected movements may be painful just like piercing of needles into the skin. Fatigue – An individual may feel tired during the entire day and will not be fit to carry out basic tasks and activities. This may also be accompanied by slurring in the speech. Generally, people who suffer from multiple sclerosis go through relapse very quickly. The signs and symptoms will defer over the course of time. Even an increase in the body temperature can worsen the symptoms.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS is a chronic medical disorder that affects the large intestine. Even though IBS is common, most people never go to a doctor because of the mild symptoms. Here is everything you need to know about Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder that is caused by irregular movements of your intestines. It is estimated that around 1 in every 10 people suffers from IBS, all over the world. Even though this is a long term condition, it does not cause any serious diseases like cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. It is not a progressive disease, in other words, it will not become worse over a period of time. However, the Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms may be better or worse from one day to another. Although the exact cause of IBS is not known, it is possible that the cause is different for different individuals. Some people with IBS may have sensitive intestines, while others may have problems digesting specific foods. Certain foods, some antibiotics, stress, and hormonal changes may trigger pain and other Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms in some people. The doctors generally diagnose most cases of IBS by asking about your medical history and conducting a physical exam. Only in some rare cases, other diagnostic tests such as blood tests, colonoscopy, and stool analysis, may need to be used. As it is quite unclear what causes IBS, the treatment plan mainly focuses on relieving your Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms so that your quality of life is not greatly reduced. You can effectively manage the mild symptoms by making certain dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and learning to manage the stress. When the Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe medications like anti-diarrheal medicines, antibiotics, antidepressants, fiber supplements, and antispasmodic medicines.

Iron deficiency or anemia is one of the most common forms of anemia and affects many people. It is the result of an inadequate amount of healthy red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the tissues in the body and are vital to the healthy functioning of the body as well. As the name suggests, a deficiency in iron leads to the onset of the disease. Your body cannot produce healthy red blood cells without sufficient amounts of iron. Iron deficiency or anemia may result in you feeling tired at all times and suffering from a shortness of breath. You need to maintain a healthy diet rich in iron to get back on track or correct your iron deficiency by taking iron supplements. You may need additional tests to determine the true nature of the disease, especially if you are bleeding internally. Here are some of the symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia: Symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia The onset of the disease is so mild that it generally goes unnoticed. The signs and symptoms of the disease gather pace once the deficiency of iron starts having a telling impact on the body. The signs and symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia include the following: Pale skin Weakness Extreme fatigue Chest pain Fast heartbeat Shortness of breath Dizziness, headaches, or light-headedness Cold hands and feet A poor appetite Unusual cravings for substances like starch, dirt, and ice Brittle nails If you end up suffering from these symptoms, it suggests the likelihood of iron deficiency or anemia. The worst you can do at this stage is do a self-diagnosis and find a treatment for yourself. While it seems simple to take iron supplements or drastically change your diet to incorporate more iron, overloading the body with iron can be extremely dangerous as well.