Everyone wants a crystal clear eyesight and healthy eyes. We completely depend on our vision for normal functioning, that the thought of diminishing vision is often terrifying. To make sure that you keep your eyes healthy, as you age. It’s important to know the best vitamins for the eyes. Vitamins are organic compounds that are required by the body in adequate amounts. An organic compound is said to be a vitamin when the body cannot synthesize that particular compound, but that compound is necessary for normal body functions. Hence, the best way to get vitamins is to consume them in your diet. Supplementation of vitamins may be required in deficiency states, but not for healthy individuals. Currently, 13 recognized vitamins are essential for the human body. Vitamins perform a diverse range of functions. They can regulate mineral metabolism, hormone production, cell growth regulation, and also some of them are antioxidants. Vision care: The best vitamins for the eyes It is estimated that 75% of people notice a change in their visual acuity by the age of 50. Taking the best vitamins for the eyes is a good preventative measure. The best vitamins for the eyes include: Vitamin A You might have been told that eating carrots are important for good eyesight. But what about carrots that make it so good for the eyes? Carrots are a rich source of vitamin A, which helps to prevent macular degeneration and cataracts. Carrots also contain beta-carotene and rhodopsin. Rhodopsin is a pigment found in the eyes, that is responsible for night vision. Without this pigment, you wouldn’t be able to see clearly at night, or in low-light situations. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and is found in foods like—liver, leafy vegetables, oranges, pumpkins, carrots, yellow fruits, fish, soy milk, and cow milk.

Certain underlying diseases, as well as one’s lifestyle, are the primary causes of constipation. Therefore, before opting for any treatment, one needs to understand the root cause by visiting a physician. Causes of constipation Excessive absorption of water by the colon is one of the primary causes of constipation. Poor or slow contraction of the colonic muscles may be the trigger for slow stool movements of and greater water loss. Here are some other factors that may lead to this problem: Insufficient fiber in the diet People who have a fiber-rich diet consisting of fruits, whole grains as well as vegetables in sufficient quantities are less prone to constipation. Fiber ensures that the patient has regular bowel movements. Thus, one can prevent constipation by making modifications to their diet. It is advisable to avoid food with low fiber content like eggs, meat, and cheese. Lack of physical activity When people are inactive for long periods, which occurs in the case of old people, there is a possibility of constipation. When people are bed-ridden for a prolonged period such as for weeks or months after hospitalization, there is an increased risk of constipation. Usually, seniors live a sedentary life without much physical activity. Therefore, they are at a higher risk of constipation as compared to younger, and more active people. Medications Constipation is a common side effect of taking some medications. These include narcotics like codeine, hydromorphone or oxycodone for pain relief. Amitriptyline, an antidepressant can also be responsible for constipation. Constipation can also occur due to anticonvulsant medications like phenytoin or carbamazepine, taken in the form of an iron supplement. Calcium channel blockers like diltiazem or nifedipine can trigger constipation. Certain antacids like Amphojel or Basaljel which contain aluminum could be responsible for constipation. Diuretics like chlorothiazide could also trigger constipation.

Shingles is an infection caused by a virus. It is characterized by a painful rash. The same virus that causes chickenpox leads to this viral infection. It results in the development of a stripe of blisters, usually on one side of the body. This rash is very painful, and usually, patients need to adopt some remedies to get relief from shingles. Symptoms and diagnosis of shingles Shingles is characterized by pain and a burning sensation. You may also experience a tingling or numbing sensation in or under your skin. It may lead to the appearance of red blisters which are very painful. Shingles is also accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and headache. You may experience itching and irritation as well as fatigue due to shingles. Your doctor may diagnose shingles through its tell-tale symptoms and signs. When you have red blisters that tend to sting, itch and burn, you probably have shingles. These signs alone help your doctor in the diagnosis of this problem. It is essential to get the right diagnosis to find the right remedies and treatments for shingles. Risk factors The varicella-zoster virus which causes chickenpox is responsible for shingles as well. If you have had chickenpox at any point of time in your life, you face the risk of developing this condition. Once this virus enters your system, it stays dormant for a long time. It may get activated by exposure to infections when your immunity levels are low. Though shingles itself is not contagious, the varicella-zoster virus is communicable. Exposure to open sores of other shingles patients can put you at the risk of developing this infection. You are at high risk of developing shingles after you turn 50. Some diseases like HIV, AIDS, as well as cancer, can put you at risk of developing this problem.

Belly fat or Visceral fat is an annoying thing which not only makes the favorite garments feel tight but a serious health problem that can give birth to more harmful severe issues. Belly flab is a major cause of Type 2 diabetes mellitus as well as certain cardiovascular diseases. There are several health associations that utilize Body Mass Index as a method to classify body weight and anticipate the danger of metabolic ailments. Eliminating excessive fat from the body can be tough. But there are several ways on how to lose belly flab which is supported by scientific researches. Soluble Fibre It is a proven way as the soluble fiber helps in absorbing water to create a gel. Then it aids in slowing down the food while it passes through the alimentary system. There are proper scientific researches that have shown the effectiveness of fiber in promoting weight loss. It makes one feel full and decrease the urge of eating again and again. Besides, helping in curbing excess calories from food is another good thing from this. In a study, it has been shown that an increase of 10-gram intake of soluble fiber can decrease the abdominal fat by 3.7% for 5 years. Try having flaxseeds, avocados, leguminous edible items, berries sprouts, etc. No Food containing Trans Fats Nowadays packaged food is a popular choice for busy people. Most of the ready-to-eat foods contain Trans fats which are formed by inducing hydrogen into fats like unsaturated ones( e.g., soyabean oil) Trans fats are a result of pumping hydrogen into unsaturated fats such as soybean oil. Some types margarine also has this which are associated with coronary diseases, induce insulin resistance and promote fat gain. It’s important to know the ingredients and check them before buying products. Sometimes, they are termed “partially hydrogenated” fats.

Diabetes is recorded to affect millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, the widespread of this condition doesn’t seem to show any signs of slowing, and the only way to deal with it is through effective control. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot effectively transport sugar from the blood to the cells. If left unchecked, it can turn deleterious over the years, leading to the development of several other conditions. It is essential to seek medical help and undergo the right treatment when affected by diabetes. This includes the use of medications like metformin and insulin injections. While medical intervention is usually necessary for diabetes, there are several natural home remedies and measures that can be used to show promise in treating the same. Stay well-hydrated Water plays a key role when keeping blood sugar levels under control. It prevents dehydration and aids in flushing out excess blood sugar from the urine. There are some studies that point at how people who drank more amount of water daily had a reduced risk of developing unhealthy blood sugar levels. Regular consumption of water effectively hydrates the blood and keeps blood sugar levels in check. Keep stress levels in check Stress has a highly negative impact on the levels of blood sugar. In times of excessive stress, hormones such as glucagon and cortisol can cause an immediate spike in the blood sugar levels. Stress can be reduced using several measures such as mindful meditation and daily relaxation. Quality sleep Today, most people lead a lifestyle that has a direct effect on sleep quality. Poor sleeping habits, late sleeping hours, and not getting enough rest can affect blood sugar levels and trigger diabetes. Additionally, improper sleeping habits can increase appetite and bring about unhealthy weight gain. One must get enough quality sleep every night to ensure optimum health.

Blood pressure is becoming a common problem among people of all ages. High blood pressure is the result of changes in the body and unhealthy lifestyle practices. High blood pressure is often associated with fatal and risky heart diseases. If you’re wondering how to lower high blood pressure, people suffering from high blood pressure often rely on medication. How effective are these medicines? More than medicine, it is the lifestyle that plays a vital role to lower your blood pressure. However, if your high blood pressure is out of control, it is better to rely on medications until the new and healthy lifestyle practices that you have adopted start making a positive difference to your blood pressure. Once you adopt a healthy lifestyle, you can consider delaying the intake of medications or reduce intake later. If you’re wondering how to lower high blood pressure, these following 10 lifestyle changes can help reduce the levels and its associated risks. Weight loss An excess of weight and a larger waistline indicate unhealthy lifestyle practices. When body weight increases, blood pressure also increases. Excessive weight can also cause breathing problems or sleep apnea, which is a form of disrupted breathing. This increases blood pressure in people already suffering from high blood pressure. Therefore, it becomes apparent to lose weight to lower your high blood pressure. It is, in fact, one of the most effective ways to lower your blood pressure. Losing at least 4.5 kg can have a significant change in the blood pressure of an individual. Another factor to monitor is your waistline. Larger the waistline, more are you at risk of suffering from high blood pressure. Men with a waistline measurement greater than 40 inches and women with their waist measurement greater than 35 inches are at risk of high blood pressure.

For anyone who is over the age of 20, cholesterol levels should be checked intermittently every 5 years to keep a track record of health. The test used to screen cholesterol levels is known as lipid profile, and it is recommended by experts that women above the age of 45 years and men above the age of 35 years should get frequent screenings done to check for lipid disorders. The aspects covered by the lipoprotein profile include the following: Total cholesterol LDL (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, more famously known as “bad” cholesterol) HDL (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, more commonly known as “good” cholesterol) Triglycerides (fats that are carried into the blood from the food that is consumed. Too much of alcohol, sugar or calories in the body get converted to triglycerides that are stored in fat cells throughout the body.) The results of the blood test for the lipid profile come in the forms of numbers. The numbers indicated in the test should not be the only proof to predict the risk of any potential heart problems. They also cannot help formulate ways in which the predicted risk can be lowered. These numbers are simply part of a much larger equation under which other factors like age, blood pressure, sugar levels, hormone profile, smoking habits, use of medications and other factors are also accounted for. This complete information profile is used by the doctor to calculate the 10-year risk a person may be at for serious heart problems. Once the key areas have been identified, a health strategy may be developed to reduce the risk. The test report shows all cholesterol levels in a measure of milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). Total cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol are one of the many factors that are considered by a doctor to predict a 10-year risk assessment or a lifetime risk assessment regarding heart disease, like heart attacks or strokes.

There are various treatment options for the common problem of asthma. It is a long-term disease that usually has no cure but can be dealt with minor adjustments, medications and lifestyle changes. Most people see that their asthma gets cured as they age, so most of the asthma treatment options involve controlling the disease. A proper asthma treatment plan helps: Prevent chronic and troubling symptoms like shortness of breath, tightness in chest and coughing. Reduce the patients need for medicines considered to be a quick relief. Maintain steady levels of lung function. Maintain a steady breathing rhythm to enable sleep throughout the night. Maintain normal levels of everyday activity. Avoid, monitor and prevent emergency asthma attacks that may need immediate attention. The best way to control asthma and manage it as a part of everyday life is to partner with the doctor completely and follow strictly the instructions and medications routines that are recommended. How can one take in active role in controlling and treating asthma? Here are some tips to control asthma. Be aware of the condition and how and when it affects you. Work alongside your doctor and identify and treat other health conditions that may potentially interfere with the management of the main problem of asthma. Avoid things and triggers that make asthma worse. Maintain a decent level of physical activity despite asthma as it is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and it helps prevent other health conditions apart from being good for mental health. There are medicines available that help an asthma patient stay active and pursue physical activities with ease. Work with health experts to follow a good action plan that helps manage the problem. An action plan aimed towards managing asthma involves receiving guidance on the medicines and exercises and lifestyle changes required, avoiding triggers of asthma, tracking the severity and level of the problem, actively responding to symptoms that are getting worse and seeking and receiving emergency care whenever required.

Cataract surgery deals with the operation of the dysfunctional natural eye lens followed by the implantation of the intraocular lens. It generally takes five minutes to operate the eye. The process doesn’t cause pain and facilitates the quick recovery of vision. The eye surgeons are well aware of the fact that every patient has unique visual needs and likewise unique approach is used to treat their problem. The complete cataract surgery process has different stages which include diagnosis, counseling, pre-operative testing, intraocular lens selection, managing the hyperopic and myopic astigmatism and enhancement of the corneal refractive after the surgery. The cost incurred to accomplish the above tests and diagnosis makes the complete cataract surgery cost. The cataract surgery cost varies depending on the services provided by the health insurance companies. The cost includes the basic package, co-payments, and deductibles. Post-operative care for 90 days is covered in the basic package without other additional costs. The patients need to pay for the medical costs such as bifocals and eye medications. Some parts of these additional costs are included in the insurance coverage. The cataract surgery cost is calculated depending on the type of package. There are two packages, which are basic package and premium package. Premium cataract surgery cost: The premium cataract surgery is a wonderful solution for people who want to get optimized results for vision. The intraocular lenses with sophisticated features make the cost high. The estimated surgery cost is $500 to $5000 for on eye. The premium surgery reduces the dependence of the people on glasses in contrast to the basic cataract surgery. To know about the complete cost and deductibles of the premium surgery, it is wise to contact the insurer. Basic cataract surgery cost: The basic surgery cost improves the vision but it doesn’t give the freedom from glasses.

Consuming healthy bacteria must be a part of an everyday lifestyle, and for all the good reasons such as boosting immunity, metabolism, and mental health and for the overall physical well-being. Indeed, both the good and bad bacteria live in our digestive system, and this balance affects almost all functions of our health. Now, this can be both positive and negative that could upset your gut in the form of an illness or an infection. All you need is to increase your probiotic intake to restore your digestion process and maintain a balanced intestinal system. Herein, we discuss the best probiotic foods you must eat for a healthy. Yogurt This dairy food has the best strains of bacteria that ease one’s digestive system. And in today’s scenario, you would find several brands that promote probiotic yogurt specifically designed to meet digestive needs. You could tweak it by adding some fruits or toasted oats for that extra flavor. You must ensure that it does not have any sugar, addictive and preservatives. Kefir You will find a hoard of flavors available in the market, and it’s probably the finest fermented milk drink for it has the best strains of friendly bacteria. The good news is that people with lactose intolerance can easily consume this drink with much ease. Kimchi This is one fermented vegetarian dish that is packed with vitamins A and C and has the best anti-inflammatory properties. You can consume this as a side dish or eat with a bowl of rice or noodles to perk it up. Fermented cheese You could easily add cheese to your daily regime intake for that extra dose of probiotics. Mozzarella and regular cheddar cheese are good to go as they have live strains of healthy bacteria. Also, you could look for cheeses that have labels for active cultures.

While it may be tempting to share everything you do with your dogs, you might want to think for a moment before sharing your food. Humans and dogs metabolize foods in different ways. Therefore, what might be healthy and even delicious for you might actually be toxic for your dog! To make things easier for you, we have put together some human foods that are good for your dogs as well as those that aren’t. Humans food that dogs can eat Certain human foods that are safe for dogs to eat are described as follows. Apples Sliced apples with the seeds removed can be safely given to your dog for snacking. Fruits like apples and pineapples are good for them, as they contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your dog’s digestive system. Carrots Carrots are a rich source of nutrients like vitamin A and dietary fibers. You can cut up carrots into smaller bite-sized pieces and feed them as snacks to your dog. White rice Cooked white rice and even brown rice can be safely given to your dogs in their meals. You can also add some meat and gravy to this rice to create a full meal. Peanut butter Humans aren’t the only ones that enjoy peanut butter. Your dogs can enjoy them too! However, they must be given in limited quantities, contributing to unnecessary weight gain. Human foods that dogs cannot eat Certain foods can prove to be quite toxic for dogs. Some such foods to avoid are as follows. Chocolate This is a known fact among most dog owners, but we want to reiterate it for the sake of new pet parents. Do not feed your dog any foods that may contain chocolates, caffeine, etc. Grapes Among fruits and dry fruits, you should avoid feeding grapes or raisins to your dog.

Constipation is a common problem and can be caused due to consuming certain types of food, medication or living a particular lifestyle. Constipation is when you experience less than three bowel movements per week. There are several other symptoms that are associated with the condition such as discomfort when you use the washroom, abdominal pain and bloating, and stools that are difficult to pass. Constipation can definitely affect your day to day life and can cause a lot of frustration. The situation is even worse when you experience severe constipation. Below are a few ways in which you can deal with the condition. Drink plenty of water Constipation is also caused by being dehydrated. This is why it is necessary to drink a significant amount of water. Sparkling water helps a lot in case you are facing severe constipation. According to studies, sparkling water is more effective than tap water and helps a lot in relieving constipation. However, you should not drink carbonated drinks like soda as it can make the condition worse. Keeping dehydration away is a great way of staying healthy and dealing with constipation. Eat fiber-rich food People who are facing constipation are often advised to eat a fiber-rich diet. Fiber helps in increasing the consistency of bowel movements as well as its bulk. This makes the stool pass easily. Insoluble fibers such as vegetables, whole grains, and wheat bran add bulk to your stools. Whereas soluble fiber such as nuts, lentils, beans, and peas soften the stools and helps with its consistency. One of the best ways of treating severe constipation is by consuming a mix of both- insoluble and soluble fibers. Exercise While exercising is not directly linked to constipation, it certainly helps in relieving the symptoms. Going for regular walks or running and doing yoga can help in staying healthy in general.