The fast-growing lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits have all led to the rising of blood sugar levels. It is seen that high blood sugar can be treated by regular exercise and intake of a healthy meal. There are a number of treatment options that can help to keep your blood sugar under check. High blood sugar is the condition wherein the body’s ability to use or produce insulin gets affected. If you too are continuously finding ways on how to lower blood sugar levels and do not want to get treated using medicines, then here are a few ways of you can reduce it. Stay hydrated It is always advisable to drink water as much as possible. Drinking ample water helps in keeping the blood sugar levels under control. Also, if you drink enough water, the kidneys will flush out excess blood sugar from the body. It should be kept in mind that beverages that are sweet or sugar-sweetened water is not good for health as it raises the chances of diabetes and also drives weight gain. Increase the fiber intake in your daily diet Fiber is seen as an important constituent that plays a crucial role in sugar absorption. It also helps in slowing the process of carb digestion. There are different types of fiber and each one has a distinct role to play. The two types of fiber are soluble and insoluble. While both of these are equally important for the body, the soluble fiber has blood sugar lowering qualities. So, ensure that you have a high-fiber diet that not only fights against type 1 diabetes but also actively reduces high blood sugar. Some of the foods that are high in fiber include legumes, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to name a few. Doctors too recommended having soluble dietary fiber as an effective home remedy to lower blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a long term condition characterized by increased blood glucose levels. It is of two major types- Type 1 and Type 2. The third type of diabetes is gestational diabetes, which occurs in pregnant women. When a person is diabetic, their body either does not produce enough insulin or the body cells do not respond to it well, which causes an imbalance in blood glucose levels. While diabetes can be tricky to control at times, you do not have to give up on your life while you do so. It is important to know the basic diabetes control measures to make sure it does not take over your life. The following are some diabetes control measures to cope up with the condition. Know it all The very first step to controlling and managing your diabetes is to know about it. Gather all the information about diabetes in general, the key terms, the way it influences the body and its effects. You can attend free workshops, seminars, awareness programs which focus on diabetes, its causes and effects. You can also keep yourself informed by reading about it online. The National Diabetes Education Program does a good job of explaining the diabetes control measures. Next is to become familiar with your own body, its metabolism, the kind of diabetes you are diagnosed with, your blood glucose and insulin levels, the foods which suit or do not suit you, and other such things. Make a plan If you are diagnosed with diabetes, it does not mean that your life has stopped. Just make a plan to keep your diabetes in control with your doctor’s assistance and know how much physical exercise you are going to need, how many carbs you are supposed to eat, what portions of food are you supposed to have and at what time, which foods should you avoid, and other such things.

A gout is a form of arthritis that mainly affects the joints in the feet, mostly the big toe. It could also affect other joints in the body. It is an acutely painful condition, and causes sharp stinging and burning sensations, in the affected area. What causes gout? Body metabolism produces many waste products, among them is uric acid. It is usually flushed out of your body through urine. However, when the level of uric acid rises, it becomes difficult for the body to flush it out. Excess uric acid can lead to the formation of urate crystals, which can accumulate in the joints and cause inflammation. Gout and Purines Purines are chemical compounds that are present in the body, as well as in most foods. They are building blocks for DNA, and also perform many vital functions in the body. However, when purines are broken down, they produce uric acid. So, most traditional anti-gout diets focus on low-purine or no purine foods. If you have gout, you should eliminate or limit many foods that contain high levels of purine. Recent research has shown that not all purine-rich foods need to be avoided. Many vegetables high in purine can help reduce gout attacks. This is because these foods contain other beneficial nutrients that offset the effect, reduce the formation of urate crystals, and help reduce inflammation. Anti-Gout diet When you’re creating plans for an anti-gout diet, you have to focus on—foods to avoid and the foods to include. Besides this, you should also focus on other factors like keeping your weight under control and keeping your body hydrated. Watch your weight Being overweight causes many problems. It can increase fluid retention, increased uric acid levels and increased chances of gout attacks. Excess weight also puts stress on your joints, increasing joint pain.

Type 2 diabetes is a manageable disease that can be cured after consulting a doctor. Most people diagnosed with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes. It is more common in people who are 45 years and older. If diabetes is complicated then it can lead to diseases such as stroke, blindness, heart disease, and kidney disease. Diabetes is known to be one of the major causes of death. Some of the symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, cuts, and sores that do not heal, and fatigue and blurry vision. With the right Type 2 diabetes treatment, you can live a healthy life. Diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes The tests mentioned below essentially measure the blood sugar amount. Glycated hemoglobin test: This test helps your doctor in finding out about your blood sugar level in the past few months. It measures the blood sugar percentage that is attached to the hemoglobin. If the test result is high then it means that your blood sugar amounts are also high. A sample of your blood will be taken and sent to a laboratory for test. This test is extremely convenient. It does not require you to fast before the test. The A1C test of 6.5% and higher indicates diabetes. That between 5.7 to 6.4 means prediabetes and less than 5.7% means that the blood sugar level is normal. Fasting plasma glucose test: It so happens that the A1C test is not valid at times. But for a proper Type 2 diabetes treatment, you need to be diagnosed. Your doctor might recommend this alternative test. For this, you are not supposed to eat anything overnight after which your blood sample is collected the next day. The result of this test also varies in case you have stress. If it is 126 mg/dL or higher then diabetes is indicated.

Migraines are severe headaches that may lead to unbearable pulsing sensations or throbbing on one side of the head. These attacks may last for a few hours or a couple of days. Such chronic pain may also affect one’s daily lifestyle. Though the exact cause of migraines is unknown, multiple factors trigger them, including the foods we eat. In this article, we have listed five foods that may trigger migraines. Chocolate Chocolate is the second-most common trigger when it comes to migraines. It contains properties like caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine that may trigger headaches in people with the condition. According to the American Migraine Foundation, 22% of people who experience migraines claim chocolate to be the trigger. Citrus fruits Eating fresh fruits can help steer clear of many diseases and lead a healthy life. But citrus fruits may have the opposite effect on people who experience migraines. Some citrus fruits to avoid include oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and pineapples. According to studies, citrus fruits carry may trigger excessive release of histamine. Cheese For those with migraines, it’s best to avoid adding cheese to their meal plans. Cheeses are generally aged and contain tyramine, an amino acid. Tyramine is a naturally occurring acid in the human body that regulates blood pressure. However, excessive tyramine is bad for the body and may trigger migraines. Cheddar, blue cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and English stilton are a few examples of tyramine-rich cheese. Coffee Coffee may help people stay awake during strenuous working hours, but the food is harmful to one’s health. Coffee contains caffeine, which is a known trigger of migraines. Inconsistent levels of caffeine in the body may negatively influence the dilation of blood vessels and lead to headaches. Processed and cured meat Processed and cured meats contain added nitrates to help preserve their color and flavor.

A normal blood sugar range can be extremely different scenarios for a diabetic and a non-diabetic. Usually, 70 mg/dL to 140 mg/dL is considered to be a normal blood sugar range. On the other hand, 140 mg/dL to 180 mg/dL is a relatively raised level of blood sugar. However, this isn’t a diabetic condition but a major red flag indicating its possible onset. Anything above 180 mg/dL specifies as a diabetic condition, i.e., hyperglycemia. Some of the symptoms of hyperglycemia are headaches, unexplained weight loss, weakness, excessive thirst, frequent urination, decreased concentration, blurry eyesight, etc. For most diabetics, normal blood sugar ranges between 70 mg/dL to 140 mg/dL before eating anything and below 180 mg/dL two hours after having meals. But these levels can surge when you – Miss insulin shots or sugar control medications Consume food containing high levels of sugar Are battling with any illness Are dealing with mental pressure Not adequately active Why is it essential to monitor your blood sugar range? Blood sugar monitoring on a regular basis on a regular basis is a healthy practice for any individual. However, for people who have diabetes examining blood sugar levels is of utmost significance. The following points explain how keeping normal blood sugar range in check can benefit you. You will get a better perspective about how well your treatment is working. It helps you make necessary changes in your lifestyle, diet, and medication if in case the results are unfavorable. Self-monitoring the blood sugar range makes you more disciplined, and this can have a positive effect on your overall health. Keeping an eye on your blood sugar will also help evade any potential health scares caused due to diabetes such as vision and nerve damages, cardiovascular diseases, kidney disorders, circulatory problems, intestinal complications and slow healing.

A rare but severe lung disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension, or PAH, results in narrowed blood vessels, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood. PAH can increase the risk of heart failure. While there are medications to decrease the severity of disease, incorporating the following foods in daily meals can keep the heart healthy by preventing the progression of PAH and its symptoms. Consult a nutritionist before making any changes in your meal plans. Dark leafy greens Pulmonary arterial hypertension limits the arteries’ ability to transfer oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to other parts of the body. Dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale have high amounts of iron, which can increase red blood cell count, thereby increasing its efficiency in carrying oxygenated blood. This can also decrease the risk of heart disease. Other iron-rich foods include lean red meat, shellfish, legumes, pumpkin seeds, and quinoa. However, doctors recommend limiting leafy greens if patients take blood thinners. Berries Inflammation can worsen pulmonary arterial hypertension as it can reduce the elasticity of blood vessels. Hence, it is important to incorporate foods that help reduce inflammation. Berries like blueberries contain lycopene and flavonoids, improving elasticity and blood flow. Other anti-inflammatory foods include watermelon, olive oil, salmon, and dark chocolate. Citrus fruits Incorporating foods rich in iron may not be sufficient as other nutrients are required to absorb the iron for improving its effectiveness. Citrus fruits such as orange, pineapples, and kiwis are rich in vitamin C, which helps blood absorb iron, thereby improving its oxygen-carrying capacity. Other foods rich in vitamin C include tomatoes, broccoli, and red and yellow bell peppers. Garlic Restricted blood flow in the lungs is one of the major causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Hence it is important to include foods in daily meals that facilitate blood flow in the lungs.

The blood sugar levels rise when the body fails in transporting the sugar in the blood to the cells. To lead a healthy life, it is important to maintain the blood sugar levels in the body. The best way to control blood sugar levels includes making some lifestyle changes. Here are some ways to naturally lower blood sugar. Regular exercise Exercising on a regular basis is an effective way of weight loss and well as increasing the sensitivity of insulin, leading to lower blood sugar. When the sensitivity of insulin increases, the sugar that is present in your blood is used more efficiently by the cells. Muscle contraction is much better and blood sugar is used by your muscles for energy. If controlling blood sugar is a problem for you, it is important that the levels are checked on a regular basis. This will help you access what form of activity works best for you. Exercise options include brisk walking, biking, running, lifting weights, swimming, hiking and so on. Lower carb intake Insulin takes the glucose created after carbs are broken down by your body and transports it to the cells. This process doesn’t work when the carb intake is too high or the insulin is not functioning properly, leading to higher levels of blood glucose. This can be managed by planning your meals to ensure the carb content is within limits. High fiber intake for diabetes type 1 The digestion of carbs and absorption of sugar are slowed down by fiber. Hence, the rise in the blood sugar levels is also gradual. Fiber can be soluble or insoluble. When it comes to lowering blood sugar levels, soluble fiber is more effective. Type 1 diabetes responds better to a high-fiber diet, which helps reduce blood sugar levels. Vegetables, legumes, fruits and whole grain vegetables have high fiber.

Intestinal gas, stomach aches, and uncomfortable bloating are some common ailments experienced by most people. Stomach gas pains are caused by improper digestion, diarrhea, constipation, and so on. It causes a lot of discomforts, especially when the intestinal gas (also known as flatus) is not expelled from the body. The gas builds up in the intestine thereby leading to pain. Most of the time, stomach gas pains are not much serious but are just a result of the digestive system going haywire momentarily. However, recurring episodes of stomach gas pains can be an indication of something more serious that may warrant immediate medical attention. If you tend to suffer from frequent bouts of stomach gas pains, visit a doctor and get yourself tested. Common signs of benign stomach gas pain There are certain signs of gas pains that are quite benign and go away with simple stomach gas pains remedies. An urge to belch or pass gas, which once done, gives immediate relief from stomach pain and bloating. The bloating or pain goes away and does not persist for long. Changes in dietary habits reduce the occurrences of bloating and excess gas. The bloating or pain goes away when less air is swallowed. Serious health problems associated with stomach gas pains There are instances when stomach gas pain is a symptom of another health issue, which can be aggravated if left untreated for long. In such cases, stomach pain is accompanied by other symptoms. Stomach gas pains can be symptoms of the following ailments: Constipation Appendicitis Irritable bowel syndrome Kidney stones or gall stones Inflammation of the gall bladder Abdomen tumor Ulcerative colitis Crohn’s disease Lactose intolerance These ailments can be diagnosed through medical tests such as blood test, endoscopy, CT scan, and X-ray. Treating stomach gas pains with natural remedies If there are persistent bouts of stomach gas pains, it is necessary to consult a doctor and follow a prescribed treatment plan to avoid further health complications.

Lupus is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and pain across the body. It occurs when the immune system erroneously attacks healthy tissues and organs, which means it is an autoimmune condition. Unfortunately, there is no specific meal plan for lupus. That said, eating and avoiding certain foods can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. So, let’s look at what foods to eat to prevent lupus flare-ups. Flaxseeds It is considered a superfood by many nutritionists. Adding flaxseeds to your daily meals can avoid or reduce lupus flare-ups to a large extent. The alpha-linolenic acid present in it has atherogenic properties that can reduce inflammation associated with lupus. The lignans present in flaxseeds are platelet-activating factor (PAF) – receptor antagonists that can also be beneficial in treating lupus nephritis. Fatty fish Fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, trout, and herring are rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and HUFA (highly unsaturated fatty acid), which are a type of omega-3 fatty acid. These nutrients are associated with decreasing inflammation due to autoimmune diseases like lupus. Other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce or avoid lupus flare-ups include Brussels sprouts, algal oil, chia seeds, walnuts, among others. Whole grains Metabolism plays an essential role in any disease management. In this case, a poor metabolism may lead to developing lupus. Refined grains reduce the body’s metabolism, which can increase the risk of lupus inflammation as they take longer to process. Nutritionists recommend eating whole grains like rye, barley, cracked wheat (bulgur), quinoa, and oatmeal as they are lighter on the digestive system and contain healthy fiber that aids in digestion, decreasing the risk of inflammation. Fresh fruits and vegetables Researchers believe that one of the reasons for autoimmune diseases like lupus is the lack of nutrients in daily meals. As the body processes the food we eat, it leaves behind free radicals.

High blood pressure or hypertension is a condition where the blood pressure along the artery walls becomes high. As time passes, the increase in the blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels, leading to heart diseases, strokes, or even kidney diseases among other health problems. Hypertension is known as a silent killer because it does not show any symptoms. In some cases, it even goes unnoticed until the symptoms get out of hand. Over 75 million people in the country have hypertension. DASH diet The most popular and effective way to control high blood pressure is through a DASH diet. It stands for a Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension. This diet includes plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts. Meats like poultry and fish are also a part of this diet. Low-fat dairy is another vital part of the DASH diet. The diet is curated to ensure that it has low amounts of sugar and salt, which will lower the blood pressure over time. There are no sweet beverages, red meat, fats, and desserts in this diet. People who follow this diet for a long time can also reduce their risk of strokes as well as artery diseases. Here are the recommendations that one needs to follow according to the DASH diet. Ideally, one should only consume 2,000 calories per day as a part of this diet. Grains with eight servings: You can include half a cup of pasta or one slice of bread. You can vary the portions and types of whole grains that you consume each day. Vegetables: That includes half a cup of cooked vegetables as well as raw green leafy vegetables. It is an essential part of the diet that one must consume every day. Fruits are also a vital part of the diet.

As much as one would love to pamper their furry friends with treats and all the love in the world, it is essential to not spoil them. Treats can be great to break the monotony of a pet cat’s regular diet and can serve as a reward for good behavior or tricks learned. But how does one understand how many treats to give? Or if the treats are good for their cats? It is essential to pay special attention to the ingredients in the treats before selecting new brands. Consult a vet if unsure of anything and also double-check to understand the possibility of allergies and side-effects. Here are some of the very effective tips to treat cats without spoiling them, which every owner should learn for the better. Break the habit Just like humans, even cats can develop a habit of fancy treats. This results in their unwillingness to have regular food and become more dependant on artificial treats. Thus, owners should strategically plan to treat their cats only twice or thrice in a week. This helps in breaking the monotony and also does not let them develop a habit in the long run. Reward them with treats One of the best tips to treat cats without spoiling them is to reward them when they are obedient. Rewarding cats with fancy treats, whether it is homemade or packaged, helps them understand and differentiate between the good and the bad as well. For example, owners should treat the cats whenever they avoid scratching or chewing shoes or sofas or do not eat from other’s plates, etc. Learn when not to treat Pet owners should understand when not to treat their cats. The love for their beloved pets is completely understandable, but not at the cost of their disobedience. One should never treat the cats every time they sit to have their meals or snacks.