10 best foods to consume during menopause

10 best foods to consume during menopause

Menopause is characterized by the permanent stopping of the menstruation cycle, which generally occurs in women between 40 to 50 years of age. Since the normal menstrual cycle ceases, the women in the menopause stage experience certain hormonal fluctuations and the onset of several other diseases. With the estrogen levels falling and the disrupted cyclical changes of progesterone and estrogen, most women suffer from increased levels of cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Hence, women are highly advised to maintain a strict diet during menopause. The following food items help to keep the hormonal fluctuations at a normal rate and also helps in combating the diseases as well. Whole grains Loaded with fibers, nutrients, and vitamin B components, whole grains are primarily necessary for the normal functioning of the body. The fiber in whole grains helps in maintaining normal bowel functioning and maintains a healthy gut. The range of vitamin B complexes cater to the diverse needs of the body and helps in restoring normal body metabolism, thereby keeping various diseases at bay. Thus, whole grain foods need to be included in the diet during menopause . Oatmeal Oatmeal work wonders in lowering blood cholesterol levels and is thus considered as one of the best foods to consume during menopause. It also helps in weight loss and improves heart health in women. Fruits & green veggies Fruits, as well as green vegetables, are undoubtedly one of the best foods to eat during menopause. These are loaded with fiber, nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants which are necessary for the normal functioning of a healthy gut and heart. The antioxidant prevents the formation of free radicals and maintains normal body metabolism. Where fruits like berries help in lowering blood pressure, broccoli helps in preventing cancer in women. Dairy products Menopause results in a huge decrease in body minerals which makes osteoporosis a common condition.
Treatment For Congestive Heart Failure What You Need To Know

Treatment For Congestive Heart Failure What You Need To Know

Congestive heart failure is a condition which involves a buildup of fluids around the heart, which in turn affects the pumping and overall functioning of the heart. The heart has four chambers—the upper half houses two atria, while the lower half has two ventricles. The ventricles are responsible for pumping blood to the entire body and organs, while the atria are responsible for receiving blood. If you’re suffering from congestive heart failure, your ventricles become incapable of pumping sufficient blood to the body. This results in the blood and fluids getting accumulated in the lungs, liver, abdomen, and other parts of the body. If not treated in time, congestive heart failure can be life threatening. What Causes Congestive Heart Failure? There are a few causal factors of congestive heart failure, and this includes: Coronary Artery Disease Coronary heart disease is a disease that affects the arteries. It involves the blockage or narrowing of the arteries. It can cause your heart to be starved of the oxygen and nutrients it requires. Coronary artery disease is one of the most common causes of congestive heart failure. Cardiomyopathy This is a progressive heart disease, where the heart walls thicken, stiffen up, and enlarge. This, in turn, can disturb the heart’s ability to pump blood, causing congestive heart failure. Heart Attack Heart attacks are the most common cause of congestive heart failure. A heart attack happens when the coronary arteries get blocked suddenly. This stops the flow of blood to the heart and to the rest of your body. A heart attack can damage the heart muscles as well, leaving it dysfunctional. Alcohol and drug abuse Alcohol and drug abuse can damage the heart and cause congestive heart failure. Research shows that people who indulge in alcohol and drug abuse are more prone and likelier to get congestive heart disease, as opposed to those who don’t.
6 treatment methods used for multiple myeloma

6 treatment methods used for multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancerous condition that affects a form of white blood cell known as plasma. The plasma cells are instrumental in warding off infections. They do this by creating antibodies that identify and destroy any germs in the system. This cancer causes cancer cells to amass in the bone marrow where they outnumber the healthy blood cells. Instead of the disease-fighting antibodies, these cells then produce anomalous proteins that can further trigger complications. The treatment for multiple myeloma isn’t always needed for individuals who are asymptomatic. Although, the doctor will regularly keep an eye on the patient’s condition with the help of blood and urine tests. For patients experiencing signs and symptoms, here are the following treatment options for multiple myeloma. Treatment for multiple myeloma Biological therapy The medications used in biological therapy take the help of the patient’s immune system to deal with myeloma cells. They enhance the immune system cells that recognize and kill cancer cells. Typically, these are taken in the form of pills. Targeted therapy In this type of multiple myeloma treatment, the medicines concentrate on specific abnormalities within the rogue cells that enable their survival. These medications then inhibit the action of the element in those myeloma cells that breaks down the proteins, causing them to die. Such therapy can be administered intravenously or via oral medications. Another targeted therapy involves monoclonal medicines that bind on to the cancerous cells, leading to their death. Corticosteroids Corticosteroids are given to regulate the immune system so that the inflammation in the body can be brought under control. Additionally, they also actively work against myeloma cells. These medications can be taken in the form of pills or intravenously. Chemotherapy This method is used to target the rapidly-growing cancer cells. This treatment is given in the pill form or administered through the vein.
6 Ways to Find Relief from Heel Spur

6 Ways to Find Relief from Heel Spur

Heel spurs can be a huge pain and can make walking extremely difficult. While some people have heel spurs and never know about it, others are not so fortunate. Heel spurs are bony growths that affect the bottom of the heel. These growths are directed toward the arch of the foot and make for a tricky proposition to deal with. While wearing customized shoes is an option, getting a proper heel spur treatment is a necessity. Specially designed shoes can only provide your foot with the comfort of having additional foot space. This condition commonly occurs with another condition called plantar fasciitis. It causes inflammation across the bottom of the foot and especially affects the heels. While there are several heel spur treatment procedures, we have compiled a list of the best treatment options you can opt for today. Cold compress Cold compress therapy could go a long way in helping you relieve your inflamed heel tissue. Apply an ice pack to your heel by tying a cloth around it to your foot. You can also apply a cold compression pack to keep the ice pack intact and in one place. You can easily find them at chemist stores as cold foot wraps or gel packs. Make sure that you keep them in the freezer at all times. Apply the wrap for ten minutes at a time, unwrap and place the foot wrap back in the freezer. Repeat this procedure on an hourly basis for best effect. Comfortable footwear The goal is to buy a pair of shoes that are comfortable and reduce the amount of pressure exerted on the heel spur. This is necessary as additional pressure can cause discomfort and pain. Look for a shoe with a firm heel support. This will prevent your foot from rolling outward or inward and causing further pain.
What You Need to Know About Xarelto Side Effects

What You Need to Know About Xarelto Side Effects

Xarelto is a drug that is mainly used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). As is the case with most of the drugs, there are several side effects associated with Xarelto. Read on to know more about the Xarelto side effects. Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot is formed in one or more of the deep veins in the body. It most commonly affects a deep vein in your leg, and causes leg pain as well as swelling. It is a serious medical condition because the blood clots can travel through the bloodstream to your lungs, and block the blood flow leading to pulmonary embolism. Some of the symptoms associated with DVT are pain, tenderness, and swelling in your calves, a heavy ache and redness in the affected area, and warmth in the area of the clot. There are some cases of DVT that do not show any symptoms whatsoever. If it is not treated in time, you may suffer from pulmonary embolism that is characterized by chest pain, breathlessness, and collapsing suddenly. DVT typically affects only one leg and the pain will be worse when you are bending your foot towards your knees. The exact cause of DVT is not yet known, however, there are certain circumstances that tend to increase the risk of developing this disorder. When you are inactive for a long period of time, like after an operation, your blood flow slows down considerably. The chances of a blood clot increase when the blood flow slows down. Certain medical conditions like cancer, heart disease, thrombophilia, infectious diseases, and lung disease are also known to increase the risk of DVT. The standard medications that are used to treat deep vein thrombosis are anticoagulants, which are also known as ‘blood-thinning’ medicines.
Foods to Avoid in Multiple Sclerosis Diet Plans

Foods to Avoid in Multiple Sclerosis Diet Plans

Multiple sclerosis is a disease with a potentially disabling effect that attacks the central nervous system. In this condition, the nerve fibers are affected due to damage to the myelin coating. The myelin acts as a protective and active sheath but is attacked by the immune system. When the nerve fibres are damaged, there is an interference in the transmission of signals between the brain, spinal cord and rest of the body parts. The communication process is tampered and this also causes varied symptoms and signs that are accompanied with multiple sclerosis. If the condition is not diagnosed and treated in time, the nerves undergo further damage and can cause a permanent effect over time. There are various effects that are caused by multiple sclerosis. However, it entirely depends on the extent of damaged nerves. Moreover, the symptoms and signs will be determined based on the types of nerves that are affected. The signs and symptoms are experienced will differ from person to person. While one may feel fatigue regularly, another patient may find it difficult to move certain body parts. The most common symptoms that are seen in the patient include abnormal thinking and constant forgetfulness. Apart from this, certain patients may also go through a loss of vision in both or one eye, depending on the severity of the nerve damage. Also, in most cases, people feel a sudden sensation in different parts of the body and this can be described as piercing a needle or pins into the skin. There are some factors that increase the risk of one developing multiple sclerosis. It is likely to affect someone who is in the age bracket of 15 to 60 years. However, family history or genes can play a major role in the contraction of this disease. Also, women are at a higher risk as compared to men.
Constipation – Causes and Risk Factors Associated With It

Constipation – Causes and Risk Factors Associated With It

Constipation is a bowel condition due to which the bowel movements of an individual are hard and occur less often than normal. Almost everyone experiences this condition. It is not usually serious, as the person suffering from constipation feels much better when the body is back on track. The normal time frame of constipation varies greatly from person to person. Some people might have it three times a day some only once or twice a week. Constipation that takes longer than 3 or more days is usually considered as too long a time frame. After three days, the stool or feces become harder and becomes more difficult to pass. The general symptoms of constipation include: Trouble having bowel movements Having few bowel movements Swollen or dry belly pain with the feeling of nausea Hard or small stools Causes of constipation can be due to several reasons. Poor diet or poor bowel habits are the two main causes of constipation. Constipation causes problems in eliminating of stool, whether it is physical, functional, or voluntary. Most common causes of constipation include Poor diet Constipation can be caused due to eating only those foods that are rich in animal fats (which are usually found in dairy products, meat, and eggs) and refined sugar. Having a low fiber diet can also result in constipation. This is because the fiber content in the food helps in better digestion and maintains stool consistency that is easy to pass. Insufficient fluid intake Lack of fluid in the daily diet can lead to hard and dry stools. Fluid is absorbed by the intestine, consuming enough fluid maintains the water content and keeps the stool soft enough for passage. Caffeine and alcohol Consuming beverages rich in caffeine and alcohol result in increased excretion. This results in relative dehydration. This, in turn, leads to constipation as enough water is not retained by the stool.
Dry Eyes – Symptoms, Causes, and More

Dry Eyes – Symptoms, Causes, and More

Dry eyes, or dry eye syndrome, as the name suggests is a condition when the surface of the eye isn’t adequately lubricated. The primary reason for this condition is inefficient functioning of the tear ducts in the eyes. Millions of people in the United States suffer from dry eyes. Tears and dry eyes The cornea is the dome-shaped outer surface of the eye. Basal tears are a fluid mixture secreted by the tear glands located near your eyes. These tears are produced to keep the eyes constantly lubricated. Tears do this by continuously layering themselves on the surface of the cornea, serving as liquid protection. This way, tears keep the eyes moisturized by being released with every blink, and never lets them dry. Tears also aid in clearer vision by helping light focus on the pupil, If your eyes don’t receive an adequate amount of basal tears, or the composition of the tears is abnormal, your eyes will experience difficulty seeing clearly and functioning normally. Tears are made up of three layers Oil/Lipid layer: This is the outer layer of the tears and is made of lipids. They are secreted by the Meibomian glands. Since these are molecules of oil, they do not evaporate from the corneal surface and help retain moisture for a long time. Aqueous layer: This is the middle layer of the tears and is made up of water-soluble protein and water. The main lacrimal gland and accessory lacrimal glands are responsible for secreted this layer of the basal tears. Mucin layer: This is the inner layer of the teardrops and is secreted by the goblet cells. The function of this layer is to bind to the water molecules of the aqueous layer and prevent them from evaporating quickly. Symptoms of dry eyes Dry eyes usually occur among adults and more prevalent among females.
4 beneficial foods for hemophilia patients

4 beneficial foods for hemophilia patients

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that is mostly diagnosed at a young age. The blood doesn’t clot as it should in people with this disease, causing excessive bleeding, which can turn life-threatening. The condition largely occurs due to the absence of certain blood-clotting proteins (called clotting factors), although it can also be acquired due to an immune system issue. Physical therapy, clot-preserving medications, and vaccinations are viable treatment options. Alternatively, dietary choices can also help manage the symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the beneficial foods to eat for people with hemophilia: Whole grains Oatmeal, brown rice, and barley are a few of the healthiest whole grains to eat for hemophilia patients. These foods contain fiber and nutrients that help stabilize blood glucose levels. By lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke, these foods prevent serious complications associated with hemophilia. Whole grains also reduce chronic inflammation, which can be touted as a major contributor to internal bleeding. Calcium-rich foods Important for the growth and maintenance of the bones, calcium is paramount for hemophilia patients. The nutrient helps keep tooth and bone health in check, preventing damage and subsequent blood loss. Also, the lack of calcium increases the risk of several diseases, some of which are known to cause internal bleeding and muscle damage. Dairy products are the standout sources of calcium, along with fish like sardines and pilchards. Leafy greens Dark, leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach are loaded with minerals that can help manage hemophilia and its possible complications. Collard greens are also great options, as they’re a good source of vitamin K that helps in blood clotting. The vegetable might also prove useful in maintaining bone health. At the same time, cabbage and beet greens come with their own list of benefits for people with hemophilia.
All You Need to know about Using Probiotics to Get Relief from Diarrhea

All You Need to know about Using Probiotics to Get Relief from Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the most common issues that almost everyone faces at least once in their lives. Some common symptoms that one can notice about this condition are bloating of the stomach, abdominal cramping, and watery and frequent stools. Diarrhea occurs due to disruptions within the gastrointestinal system. It typically lasts for less than two weeks. What are the causes of diarrhea? Many sources can lead to this condition. Here are a few of them: Food poisoning Bacterial infection Viral infection Recent use of antibiotics Use of contaminated water How to get rid of diarrhea? You can try several remedies that can help with diarrhea. The most popular methods are probiotics that can provide relief from diarrhea. Probiotics to get relief from diarrhea Probiotics are one of the best ways of managing diarrhea. It is an excellent source of a bacteria which is good for the body. Probiotics are present in the intestinal tract and help create a healthy gut, which treats diarrhea as well. Probiotics may also refer to living microorganisms found in several foods. Here is a list of the best probiotics that can provide relief from diarrhea. Dark chocolate Cottage cheese Green olives Kefir Sauerkraut Beet Kvass Kombucha Natto Miso Tempeh Pickles Yogurt While you can get probiotics in their natural form from these foods, they are also available as pills. How do probiotics provide relief from diarrhea? The healthy bacteria present in the intestinal tract aid the gastrointestinal system and ensure that it functions normally. Probiotics play a vital role in protecting the intestine from infections. When there is a change in the system due to the use of antibiotics, or if you catch an infection from an unhealthy virus or bacteria, you can get diarrhea. At such times, taking probiotics from an external source can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut.
Factors to Help Identify Various Causes and Symptoms of Asthma

Factors to Help Identify Various Causes and Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma is a long-term inflammatory disease that causes discomfort in the airways of the lungs by blocking the passageway. This condition is chronic and is caused due to air pollution and a number of allergies among other common factors. It is estimated that more than 350 million people globally suffer from many asthma symptoms with some cases that also result in fatalities. Asthma can be identified by people who have recurrent symptoms like shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing in some patients. However, before you can understand the various symptoms, understanding the causes and the factors that can aggravate the inherent condition is important. Causes of asthma: Causes can be classified into three primary categories, namely environmental, genetic, and asthma caused due to medical conditions. Environmental causes of asthma: Allergens, air pollution, and other chemicals present in the environment can all be the silent triggers of this chronic condition. Low air quality in urban and industrial areas is the reason why many healthy people develop an asthma symptom through no fault of their own. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has estimated rising number of asthma patients in low-income communities who rely on public transport for their daily commute, thus exposing themselves to poor air quality on a day-to-day basis. At times, people are also at fault since the needed precautions to be taken to avoid developing a chronic asthma symptom is not followed diligently despite the government’s best efforts to educate the masses. An asthma symptom can also be caused due to exposure to indoor allergens like dust mites, cockroaches, dander from animals, and even mold, these pollutants get mixed in the clean air thus causing associated asthma symptoms. Genetic causes of asthma Exposure to indoor and outdoor pollutants are not the only reasons why you can develop asthma symptoms.
7 Precautions to Take While Using Ozempic

7 Precautions to Take While Using Ozempic

Though progress in medical science has eradicated several life-threatening diseases, there are some ailments that cannot be cured entirely. Such chronic ailments cannot be treated, but there are innovative ways of bringing it under control and successfully coexisting with the said condition. One such chronic condition that alters an individual’s life is diabetes mellitus. This condition is a group of metabolic diseases that bring about dramatic changes in an individual’s blood sugar levels, either due to the inadequate production of insulin or because their body’s cells do not respond favorably to insulin. About 100 million people in the country are affected by diabetes or are in the prediabetes stage. Poor eating habits or one’s genetic predisposition make an individual more susceptible to developing diabetes at any stage of their lives. Though diabetes is a distressing health condition, with the right diabetes medication like metformin, insulin injections, and glyburide, a balanced diet, and regular exercise regime, you can bring the ailment under control. Moreover, there are medications to keep the complications associated with diabetes like heart problems or foot complications in check. In combination, all of these factors will ensure that you control this ailment’s progression. However, at times, even these medications and lifestyle choices aren’t enough to bring the elevated blood sugar levels in control or to stabilize its levels. At this point, your doctor might add Ozempic® (Semaglutide) to your diabetes medications. Ozempic® is a glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist which is engineered for people with type 2 diabetes as glucagon and insulin are the hormones that work in unison to bring the blood sugar levels under control, but in opposing ways. This glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist works by helping the body produce more insulin on its own. Ozempic® is available in the form of a prefilled pen and is administered subcutaneously.