Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition that is characterized by tremors, shaking, and stiffness. It affects the person’s ability to walk, talk, and function in day-to-day life. While medication is an essential part of managing Parkinson’s, eating certain foods can also help tackle the symptoms of this condition. In this article, we focus on understanding foods that one should eat to help alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Fatty fish When it comes to managing Parkinson’s disease, one needs to eat foods with high omega-3 fatty acids. This is because research suggests that consuming omega-3 fatty acid-rich products, such as fish oil and fatty fish, can help slow down the progression of this degenerative condition. Omega-3 may also help reduce inflammation in the nerves, improve transmissions in the brain, and slow down the process of neurodegeneration. Common seafood items high in omega-3 include salmon, sardines, anchovies, herring, and oysters. Aside from managing Parkinson’s symptoms, eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can also help improve heart health. It is also shown to reduce the risk of confusion and dementia caused due to Parkinson’s. Fava beans Fava beans are great for managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s. They contain high levels of levodopa, which can help treat multiple signs of Parkinson’s disease. The compound has been shown to slow down the progression of Parkinson’s to a certain extent. It can also help improve motor functions in those with this condition. That being said, it is essential to note that fava beans cannot replace or be used as an alternative to any medication prescribed for Parkinson’s disease. Foods rich in antioxidants Foods that contain high levels of antioxidants are must-haves when it comes to managing Parkinson’s disease. This is because antioxidants in the food combine with the free radicals or unstable molecules in the body.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or IPF is a chronic lung condition where a patient experiences difficulty breathing due to scarred and strained lungs. The condition is generally seen in people aged 70 years or above. The exact cause of IPF is not known. However, there are measures that can be taken to manage the condition and lifestyle. While some foods help manage the condition and control its symptoms, there are foods that result in exacerbated symptoms. This article talks about the foods that are better avoided with IPF. Dairy Dairy is one of the food groups that should be consumed in small portions. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients must try to avoid it completely. Milk and other milk products can lead to increased phlegm and mucus production in the body. This can, in turn, contribute to difficulty in breathing for the patients. It can also lead to increased coughing and wheezing, exerting excessive pressure on the lungs. Daily consumption of dairy products like ice cream and butter should be avoided at all costs. Dairy alternatives like soy milk, tofu, almond milk, and other plant milk products can be used. Processed meat Processed meats have long been condemned for their potential to cause harm to an individual’s health. Foods like salami, sausages, and other cured meat are harmful to individuals for health concerns. These foods often contain added salts and preservatives like nitrates to increase the shelf life of the meat and make its color appear more appealing. The excess amount of salt in processed foods leads to water retention that can cause patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to experience difficulty breathing. It is advisable to opt for nitrate-free options or avoid deli-meats in its entirety to avoid complications that arise from these foods. Sodas Sodas or other foods with added sugars are best avoided for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

4 misconceptions about contraceptives There is a lot of information as well as misinformation on birth control. More often than not, it is hard to distinguish between the two. Here are 4 myths on birth control that need to be debunked immediately. Birth control keeps you safe from sexually transmitted diseases This myth is perhaps one of the most important ones that need to be debunked. Firstly, the only thing that can protect people from sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections, including HIV(Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the use of condoms. There is no other form of contraceptive that provides complete protection against sexually transmitted diseases the way a condom does. Hence, as per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, condoms must be used consistently and adequately during active sexual contact, so that you do not suffer from an STI. Using a condom is perhaps the safest way for preventing pregnancy Contrary to popular belief, condoms are only an adequate way to prevent men and women from getting a sexually transmitted infection. Even so, it is not the ideal way to keep pregnancy at bay. A study shows that only 98% efficacy can be achieved with a condom when it comes to prevention of pregnancy. However, in most cases, people do not end up using the condom the right way. Hence, the rate goes down to almost 85%. If you want a better hang of the situation, then here is what you should know. Out of every 100 women who use a condom in birth control, two to fifteen will become pregnant during the first year that they start using it. As per experts, the best way of birth control is adopting a birth control implant or getting an intrauterine contraceptive device. Pulling out is an effective way of birth control A lot of people practice withdrawal or “pulling out”.

Facts behind the common birth control myths The field of contraception and gynecology has advanced. One very crucial component of this field is birth control. Right from condoms and pills to IUD (Intrauterine Device), there are plenty of methods to ensure that there is no occurrence of unwanted pregnancy. Even so, there are plenty of misconceptions revolving around the usage of birth control. To ensure that you are not a victim of these myths, here are the ones you need to steer clear away from. Myth 1: You do not need to practice birth control while you are on breastfeeding One of the most common myths around birth control is that you do not need to adopt it if you are breastfeeding. As per Mary Jane Minkin, who is the M.D at obstetrics and gynecology at Yale University, it is perhaps one of the biggest reasons behind unwanted pregnancies. The reason is that while you are on breastfeeding, the hormones generated from the pituitary gland get suppressed. These are responsible for ovulation. However, this is not the case all the time, so it is advisable to stick to a birth control method even when you are breastfeeding. Myth 2: The birth control pill needs to be taken at the same time every day As per Vanessa Cullins, the M.D of External Medical Affairs at Planned Parenthood, there is no connection between the efficiency of a birth control pill and the time you consume it. This myth only holds true if you are consuming the mini pill. This pill is a progestin which needs to be taken at the same time every day. For people who take birth control pills which are a mix of both progestin and estrogen, this would make no sense. Myth 3: Getting an IUD makes sense only when you have had children If you need a super-effective way to control your pregnancy, then consulting your gynecologist about an IUD (Intrauterine device) is very useful.

Hypertension, medically known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that affects a large majority of individuals across the world. An individual’s blood pressure depends on the amount of blood that is being pumped by the heart, the size of the arteries, and the amount of resistance it faces, among other factors. The narrower the arteries, the higher the blood pressure. If left untreated, hypertension can eventually cause long-term health problems including several heart diseases, strokes, and even eye damage. Many individuals go for long periods without being aware that they have hypertension. Fortunately, this condition can be easily diagnosed and treated with the right medication. Why you should choose GoodRx Medications can be an expensive affair. This statement is, unfortunately, true irrespective of the class of the drug or the disease the individual suffers from. However, it does not have to stay this way. With the help of GoodRx and its gold membership, you can gain massive discounts on various prescribed and generic over-the-counter medications. You can start by availing this benefit with a 30-day free trial period. Medication for hypertension Hypertension can be diagnosed with the help of regular blood pressure check-ups. When it comes to treating hypertension, there are four different categories of medication, namely, thiazide diuretics (TZD); calcium channel blockers (CCB); angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE); and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB). Some of the common medications under each of these categories are: Prinivil Belonging to the ACE drug class, Prinivil is a common and inexpensive drug that is used to treat hypertension and heart diseases. It is also used to reduce the risk of death after a cardiac arrest. This medication is made available by most brands, and can be found at discounted prices at some pharmacies. In fact, with GoodRx Gold , you can get a whopping 81 percent off on this lifesaver.

Constipation, a problem faced by nearly one-fifth of the country, is characterized when a person has irregular bowel movements. Thankfully, there are many home remedies to treat constipation. Given below are some quick and easy remedies that can help find relief from constipation instantly. Increase fiber intake Fiber consumption is one of the best home remedies to treat constipation, as it ensures smooth bowel movements. It can prevent constipation and help treat someone who is already facing this problem. Dietary fiber can be obtained from soluble fiber sources like oatmeal, flaxseeds, carrot, and apples. Insoluble fiber is found in nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. Apart from dietary fiber, supplements help treat constipation too. Psyllium is one of the best supplements that have non-fermentable soluble fiber. Start your day with a hot cup A hot cup of coffee or tea is one of the best ways to loosen the bowels, thus helping in smooth bowel movements. Herbal tea made from hot water and lemon juice or hot water with mint and ginger can also be helpful. Keep fit Fitness is important for general health. Doing something as simple as taking a brisk walk can help in the process of digestion. Walking after meals is recommended to help in the process of digestion. Stay hydrated Keeping the body hydrated is a natural remedy to help the digestive system. Drinking eight glasses of water every day helps keep the body hydrated. It can be very helpful and provides great relief from constipation. Practice regular bowel movements Sticking to a schedule for bowel movements and following it every day can help ensure regular bowel movements. When you do not pass stools and avoid visiting the loo for any reason, it creates problems. Therefore, one should have a schedule to visit the bathroom to pass stools.

Consuming certain food items increase symptoms of asthma, and sometimes it could lead to a severe attack. Asthma patients do not suffer from breathing problems at all times. Some triggers or factors can suddenly cause an asthma attack. These triggers can also worsen symptoms the asthma patient is suffering from. Therefore, it is necessary to know what you can and can’t eat. Asthma Triggers There are many triggers for asthma attacks, such as pollen, dust, scent, and smoke. Food can also be a trigger causes an asthma attack. Asthma patients need to figure out which food items trigger an attack and avoid them. Some of these items include Sulfites Sulfites are preservatives used in some food products. In some asthma patients, they can act as a trigger for an attack; hence, they have to be avoided. Sulfites are found in food items like pickles, shrimp, wine, dried fruits, bottled lemon juice, and beer. You should avoid any of these food items if they cause a reaction. Eggs Egg allergy is common in children. It can cause skin disorders and breathing problems. Egg and egg products need to be avoided by those who are allergic. However, most children outgrow an egg allergy. Milk Some people find a glass of hot milk comforting in case of an asthma attack. Yet, many asthmatics experience breathing problems after consuming milk. These people may even face difficulties while consuming products made from milk, like cheese or butter. Gas-producing Foods Several food items produce an excess of gas in the stomach, which leads to the stomach puffing up. A bloated stomach puts pressure on the lungs, and this can cause breathing difficulties. Such a situation will be bad for someone who suffers from chronic asthma. Eating light meals is recommended for asthmatics. They should avoid food that causes gas like beans, carbonated drinks, fried foods, cabbage, broccoli, wheat, onions, lentils, and even milk.

Many pet parents feed human foods to their dogs from time to time. While there is nothing wrong with feeding them small bits of chocolate or other tidbits, pet parents must keep in mind that a dog’s digestive system is different from humans. If you are wondering what human foods are safe for dogs, we have got you covered. The article sheds light on human foods that dogs love and can eat. Human foods that are safe for dogs Peanut butter Dogs love peanut butter and for good reason. It is tasty and a good source of protein, vitamin B and E, and niacin. That said, ensure that you give your pet peanut butter that is unsalted, made with raw peanuts, and contains zero sugar or artificial sweeteners. Cooked chicken Feeding your doggo a piece of cooked chicken from your plate is completely alright as long as it contains zero or limited spices. Chicken is a rich source of protein and a healthy meal replacement option. Opt for boiled chicken if your pet is a senior or has a sensitive stomach. Carrots Carrots are high in fiber, beta carotene, and vitamin A, making them an excellent snack option for dogs. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and it’s best to feed bite-sized pieces or diced baby carrots to your canine to avoid choking mishaps. Pumpkin Pumpkins and carrots have almost the same healthy properties. This juicy fruit helps reduce digestive issues in dogs. A fresh pumpkin is an excellent option for dogs; however, if you have a canned one, make sure it doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners, as excessive sugar consumption can be toxic to dogs. Oatmeal Oatmeal is relatively healthy for dogs, especially for older pets with bowel irregularities. It contains soluble fiber and is best for pets that are allergic to wheat.

A migraine is a headache that occurs due to changes in the brain and the blood vessels surrounding it. This headache can last from four hours to three days, with the frequency varying from a daily basis to less than once a year. National Headache Foundation has found out that around 37 million people in the country have issues related to migraine. Also, it affects women three times more than it affects men. Causes of migraine headaches The exact causes of migraine headaches are yet not known, but it is believed that it occurs due to the expansion of the blood vessels and release of some chemicals, which results in the occurrence of pain. Two chemicals, namely serotonin and dopamine, have been found to be responsible for the occurrence of a migraine. These two chemicals are generally found in the brain but can result in abnormal functioning of blood vessels. It is, however, known that different triggers ignite a migraine, and different people have distinct triggers, which incite a migraine in them. Foods such as cheese, nuts, and chocolate are the causes of migraine headaches in some people. Others find that missing a meal can result in a headache, which eventually transforms into a migraine. Tension and stress are some other causes of migraine headaches. This stress could be emotional or physical. Symptoms of a migraine The symptoms of a migraine also vary with people. Five distinct phases of a migraine are known now. Prodrome A migraine has many pre-warnings before it occurs. Change in mood, change in sensations, fatigue, and muscle tension are some of the warnings which indicate that a migraine is about to occur. Aura This is kind of sensory disturbance which precedes a headache. Some people see blind spots and feel as if geometric patterns and colorful lights are visible.

Studies indicate that the human brain absorbs about 20-30% of energy from one’s daily calorie intake. Brain health determines a person’s cognitive abilities, including learning, attention, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Cognitive capacity is greatly dependent on the type of food one eats. Nutrient and antioxidant-rich nuts, eggs, fish, fruits, and vegetables boost cognitive functionality. But certain foods, like the ones mentioned below, are best avoided to ensure optimal brain function. Refined sugars Added or refined sugars can include baked goods like donuts, candies, chocolates, cakes, cookies, ice cream, and more can lead to memory problems. Glucose is an essential component to fuel one’s cellular capability, but overconsumption of it in the form of added or white sugar can slow down one’s cognitive functions. Some studies indicate a link between chronic intake of refined sugar and memory impairment. Sodas and energy drinks Energy drinks and sodas are marketed as products that instantly boost one’s energy levels but could also lead to forgetfulness. Elevated blood sugar levels due to high intake of sugary beverages may lead to diabetes, abnormal insulin levels, and decreased blood flow to the brain. These, in turn, heighten the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Vegetable oils Vegetable oils can provide the much-needed omega-3 fatty acids, but the high intake of refined oil made from corn, canola, or sunflower is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline. White bread and pasta White bread, potatoes, white rice, pasta, and other food items high in refined carbs tend to dull one’s memory and spike blood sugar and insulin levels. Studies show that continuous intake of refined carbs can harm one’s neurocognitive function over time and lead to impaired memory. Fried foods Foods like tempura, fries, chips, fried chicken, and more can trigger inflammation and damage blood vessels that supply blood to the brain.

Several conditions can cause poor circulation in the body, including stress, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Poor circulation may also result from low blood count, wherein the body fails to produce the necessary red blood cells (RBCs) in a day. Furthermore, a low blood count can lead to symptoms like numbness, digestive problems, and cramps. So, here are a few healthy foods that help increase blood count and improve circulation. Foods to increase blood count Eating healthy results in several health benefits. Here are some foods that can help raise the red blood cell count in the body: Cherries Cherries are rich in vitamin C, which compliments iron absorption by the body. Eating cherries can result in an increase in red blood cells in the body. Egg yolk Yolks contain folic acid, which is essential as it helps maintain hemoglobin levels in the body. Red meat Red meat, like beef, lamb, and pork, promotes healthy blood levels. These foods contain iron that is easily absorbed by the blood. The process helps improve hemoglobin levels, which improves the production of red blood cells. Dairy products Moderately having cheese and milk benefits the heart and regulates blood levels. Milk alternatives like soy and almond milk also help improve blood count. Foods for better blood circulation It is equally important to eat foods that improve blood circulation. Some of these foods include: Garlic One should add garlic to their daily meals because it is rich in allicin, which boosts immunity. Studies show that the regular habit of adding this allicin-rich herb soothes the blood vessels and promotes blood flow in the tissue. Beetroots Beetroots are known for their nitrate content, which helps blood circulation. The element helps improve the flow of blood and compliments blood pressure. Beetroots are also known to reduce inflammation of the blood vessels and increase nitric oxide levels in the body.

Braces are more than just cosmetic treatments as overlapping and misaligned teeth also cause issues like a greater susceptibility to tooth decay, improper bites that lead to facial pain, and more. Getting braces for teeth alignment is a thought that crosses the mind of every adult with misaligned or overlapped teeth. Here we have put together some basic information that might help you make your decision about getting those braces. While the thought of perfectly aligned teeth is appealing, the results of getting adult braces and whether the procedure is worth the cost are some things that might pull you back. Also, although childhood is the ideal time to get any dental correction treatments done, even adult treatments show promising results nowadays. How do braces work? Orthodontics functions on the principle of aligning teeth in the desired position by applying pressure. An orthodontist relies on this principle to achieve the desired results with the help of mechanical devices that put pressure to force the subjected tooth or teeth to reposition. Braces, whether for kids or adults, can be used to reposition multiple teeth at once and are extremely versatile. It is common to experience soreness or discomfort after having braces installed, but the pain can be treated with an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen. Types of braces For the longest time, people have avoided getting braces because they are afraid of how others will perceive it, and the concern is even greater when it comes to adult braces. While the “metal mouth” is the most common picture of braces that comes to mind, it is not the only option available: Traditional metal braces The regular braces use gentle pressure to realign your teeth over time. These have brackets glued to the teeth and interconnected with a wire, which is tightened every 4-6 weeks, depending on the amount of change desired and the achieved results.