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.

Cancer is a life-threatening condition that typically forms particularly in one area or region of the body and this region is known as the primary site. Cancer cells can travel to other parts of the body, breaking away from its primary site through the bloodstream or the lymph system and is called metastasis. Metastatic lung cancer occurs when cancer cells break away from a tumor formed in the lungs and travel to other parts of the body through the blood or the lymph system. Even though the cancer cells have traveled and spread to a new location in the body, it is still named after the body part from where it all started. It is common for lung cancer to metastasize even before it is diagnosed, as symptoms generally do not show up when the lung cancer is already present. The most common sites of metastasis for lung cancer are the other lung, adrenal gland, bones, brain, and liver. Metastatic lung cancer is very different from recurring lung cancer, as recurring lung cancer affects the same part of the lung after being treated rather than moving to some other parts of the body. A metastatic cancer is always caused by the cancer cells developing in some other regions and traveling to another part of the body. Symptoms of metastatic lung cancer The symptoms of metastatic lung cancer are related to the area to which cancer spreads and these symptoms can be general. These general symptoms are often confused with some other issues. Hence, this condition is very difficult to identify as it does not always cause discernible symptoms. However, we have listed some of the common symptoms which are related to the site where a new tumor has developed: Bones Patients with lung cancer have a 40 percent chance of developing bone metastases which include symptoms such as pain.

High blood pressure is a hazardous condition that is unfortunately prevalent today. If left untreated it can cause a stroke and heart disease. If your blood pressure reads above 140/90 mmHg, then you have a high blood pressure. The cause for high blood pressure cannot be tracked in some cases. However, you can control it if you follow a strict regime for an extended period. You can control your blood pressure naturally with a proper diet and healthy lifestyle. You will not have to take medications either. By following these suggestions, your blood pressure will be under control in no time. These remedies will also not have any adverse effects on your body. Healthy Body Weight Losing weight is one of the most efficient ways to control your blood pressure. Excess body weight has shown to increase the blood pressure. Sleep apnea is a common condition in those who are overweight. Disrupted sleep can also cause a rise in the blood pressure. Obesity is known to cause stress in the joints and poor blood circulation. It adds stress and affects the blood pressure. Losing weight is the first thing you should do if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure. Exercise Regularly Any physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes, 4 to 5 times a week will help you reduce your blood pressure level. It is best not to overdo it either as it may have adverse effects. For best results stick to a regime and exercise regularly. However, do not stop with the exercise as it may cause your blood pressure to shoot up again. If you have mild hypertension, you can prevent it from getting worse with a regular workout. On the other hand, if your condition is severe, you can reduce the levels and bring it to a safe level.

The food we consume every day mostly consists of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. However, there are other essential organic and inorganic constituents, which are equally important for our health. Vitamins are one such organic component of food. Although we only need to include minute quantities of these in our everyday diet, they play a significant role in maintaining an individual’s growth and metabolism. Any person’s healthy appearance comes not only from energy-yielding proteins, carbohydrates, and fats but also from other components like vitamins, minerals, and water. Sources of vitamins Vitamins are a protective food that is essential to ensure that the human body functions normally. Vitamins are crucial since they cannot be synthesized in the human body. Therefore, whenever there is disequilibrium in its quantity, one needs to take supplements to ensure a balanced intake. Since plants can synthesize vitamins, animal foods like meat, fish, eggs, liver, and milk can be a good way to replenish a vitamin imbalance. When humans eat animals that feed on plants, vitamins are transferred to the human body. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, cannot be found in foods of plant origin. Animal-based foods are an abundant source of this vitamin. Vitamin B12 that is synthesized by the intestinal bacteria in humans is not enough to meet the daily requirements. In such cases, vitamin B12 supplements are a lifesaver. Kinds of vitamins Vitamins are of two types, fat-soluble and water-soluble. The B complex groups of vitamins like thiamine, niacin, folic acid, riboflavin, cobalamin, riboflavin, and biotin are water-soluble. Hydroxycobalamin, chlorocobalamin, cyan cobalamin, and nitro cobalamin are few active forms of vitamin B12. Functions of vitamin B12 All vitamins which are a part of vitamin B-Complex act as coenzymes and vitamin B12 is no exception. Vitamin B12 acts as coenzymes in different chemical reactions in the body, in the form of cobamide, which is involved in the formation of DNA.

As far as inflammations are concerned, meningitis is understandably the most difficult one to treat and deal with. It is a condition that is well-researched and monitored. It is an infection of sorts, that means treatment isn’t very difficult to figure out. Meningitis is essentially an inflammation that occurs along with the possible swelling of the protective membrane that covers our spinal cord and brain. The swelling and inflammation can be caused by a number of reasons—but a common cause is a bacterial or viral infection on this covering. Here is a broader understanding of the meningitis symptoms and how you can deal with this disease. What and How As we already know what meningitis is—understanding the cause and treatment is far more important—the symptoms are fairly similar across the board. However, how it affects you is something that you need to understand. The most common cause of meningitis in the country is either a bacterial or viral infection. Interestingly, many cases of meningitis get resolved by themselves, but others can be life-threatening and deadly. They need to be treated with emergency antibiotics. That is why it’s never okay to risk not getting meningitis checked. Identifying meningitis symptoms, therefore, also takes prime importance. Here are a few different types of meningitis to help you understand the differences and levels of severity. Bacterial Meningitis This kind of meningitis starts with a bacteria invading your body that travels to the spinal cord and the brain region. This causes what is known as acute bacterial meningitis. However, another way this can occur is if the bacteria gets access to the meninges directly. This is often the case during a nasal, ear, or throat infection—but can also happen during skull fractures and even surgeries. Of course, there are some kinds of bacteria are more likely to cause acute bacterial meningitis than others.

Arthritis can be one of the key causes of toe pain. Arthritis is mainly a disorder of the joints due to inflammation of one or more of the same. There are more than hundred different types of arthritis, and arthritis in the toe is one among them. Arthritis in the toe is often associated with joint pain or arthralgia. However, the source of the pain can be a number of other factors too. The pain can either be a direct consequence of an injury or an abnormality in the toe. The skin on and around the toe, the blood vessels and nerves in it, the soft tissues, bones, and so on are prone to getting injured due to movement or locomotion. Athletes are more prone to getting their toe injured. Symptoms of pain in the big toe It is rightly said that small things can get us into big problems. Here are a few symptoms of pain in the big toe: A feeling of numbness in the toes, a burning sensation, or experiencing warmth around the area can make you consider toe pain. If you get your big toe injured, you will have immense trouble and discomfort as you walk. There is bound to be swelling if there is a hairline crack or similar issues. Painkillers can temporarily relieve the pain, but it is important to consult a doctor for permanent toe pain relief. Misalignment of bones or a fracture can cause immense and writhing pain. Needless to say, you’ll be unable to walk with such pain. A tender feeling in the toe or even a discoloration or bruise can be seen. Bumps are common due to ingrown toenails, corns, and so on. Etiology of toe pain Unhealthy and ingrown toenails, blisters, bunions, corns, cuts, calluses, and scrapes are some of the most common causes of toe pain.

Meninges are membranes that cover or envelope the brain and the spinal cord. There are three meninges—dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater. The meninges protect the central nervous system. When bacteria affect these membranes, the condition is then called meningitis. Meningitis is of three types—bacterial, fungal, and viral. Bacterial meningitis is life-threatening and can also spread among people when they come in close contact with each other. Viral meningitis, however, is not as dangerous as bacterial meningitis and can be recovered without treatment. Fungal meningitis, on the other hand, is one of the rare forms of meningitis that occurs in those who have a weak immune system. Some of the causes of meningitis are: – Syphilis – Tuberculosis – Fungal infection – Autoimmune disorders – Cancer medications These are not the common causes but can trigger meningitis. Meningitis is more likely to attack people aged under 5, between 16–25, or over 55 years. If you do not know about this disease, then there is a good chance you will miss out on the symptoms and that is not good for a patient suffering from the same. The symptoms of meningitis can easily be confused with common cold, cough, and fever. Besides back ache, loss of appetite, and pale skin, here are some symptoms that should not be ignored when spotted: Light sensitivity If the eyes are suddenly sensitive to light or anything bright, it can then be a symptom of meningitis. If there has been a problem with bright light for a long time, then it does not necessarily have to be because of meningitis. However, if this is a new thing that you are seeing or something that suddenly started happening, then there could be a problem. Cold/common cold Common cold with other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or muscle pain can be a sign of meningitis and should be checked.

Diabetes, a lifelong disease is increasingly affecting a large population of the world. It is a condition in which hormone insulin levels are disrupted. Insulin is released by the pancreas, in order to help the body store the sugar and use fat from the food we consume. However, in case of a diabetic patient, the pancreas produces little or no insulin. In a few cases, diabetes may be triggered when the body does not respond well to the insulin produced. Diabetes can be classified into three types – type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the insulin is not produced, and insulin has to be injected into the body. This is a type of diabetes may occur at any age but is common among people below the age of 20 years. On the other hand, people with type 2 diabetes do not produce enough insulin or the insulin is not used up properly. Symptoms of diabetes The symptoms of diabetes may occur before or after the onset of the condition. They may occur suddenly and may be severe in few patients. Here are some symptoms of diabetes. Increased thirst – People who have diabetes tend to feel thirsty every short while. The mouth feels dry at all times. This symptom may prevail even when a person is well-hydrated. Frequent urination – Increased thirst is accompanied by the need to visit the toilet every short while. Blurred vision – Eyesight begins to feel hazy, and the vision blurs. This symptom is a major indicator of type 1 diabetes. Numbness – There may be numbness or tingling in the feet or hands. This is usually mild in the beginning but feels more bothersome after a while. Slow-healing – A significant symptom of diabetes includes the slow-healing of cuts and wounds.

Swollen feet are a problem which many people suffer from. Swollen feet are not a disease condition in itself but indicate the presence of other complications. This problem usually occurs when fluid gets accumulated in tissues in feet, and this causes swelling of feet. Executing a good cure for swollen feet is not difficult, but you must be wary of the other conditions the swollen feet could inflict. Feet can get swollen for varying reasons including being overweight, standing or sitting for a longer duration, pregnancy, and poor blood circulation. Swelling of the feet can also occur when any surgery involving the feet has been done. This restricts the movement of the person and also hinders blood flow to the area, thus causing swelling in the feet. With the increase in swelling, general discomfort in walking or standing might occur. However, there are many natural remedies which offer a viable cure for swollen feet. In most of the cases, this swelling will reduce if these natural remedies are effectively used. Contrast Hydrotherapy Contrast hydrotherapy which includes the use of hot and cold water is effective in reducing the swelling of the feet. Warm water plays a role in improving the circulation while cold water reduces the swelling of the feet. For using this therapy, two small tubs are to be filled with warm and cold water. The feet are to be soaked in warm water tub for about 4 minutes. Thereafter, the feet are to be soaked in the cold water for around a minute. This alternation between cold and hot water should be done for 15-20 minutes. This exercise should be repeated 5-7 times a day for imminent relief. Try Massage This is considered to be one of the best remedies to provide an effective cure for swollen feet.

People who suffer from unexplainable mood swings, or have difficulty in sleeping or feel tired most of the time should understand that the body is producing thyroid hormones in excess. This is an indication that the person is suffering from hyperthyroidism. The best course of action is to take natural thyroid supplements so that the elegant balance of thyroid is maintained in the body. Lemon Balm Lemon balm is from the mint family and is usually used for flavoring ice cream or tea. It is however known to aid the thyroid health and is thus considered among natural thyroid supplements. Lemon balm controls the condition related to thyroid through its unique mechanism. Lemon balm is known to inhibit the thyroid stimulating hormone from attaching to the receptors. Lemon balm blocks the synthesis of T4 and thus prevents T4 from being converted to T3. This dilutes the effect of thyroid stimulating hormone and thus prevents the antibodies from speeding up the functioning of the thyroid. 300 to 500 milligram of lemon balm juice can be taken on a daily basis for normalizing the functioning of thyroid gland. Lemon balm can also be combined with bugleweed natural supplement for effective results. Kelp It has been found out medically that lack of iodine can result in mental retardation and damage to the brain. World Health Organization has come out with a report that 30 percent of the world population is suffering from the deficiency of iodine. Consumption of excessive iodine can lead to hyperthyroidism and to keep the thyroid level under control, kelp can be taken as it does not have a large amount of iodine and thus will help in curing thyroid related problems. Kelp is also a rich source of minerals and vitamins. It is among great natural thyroid supplements and can be taken for overactive thyroid conditions.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS affects the bowel movements and impacts digestion and metabolism. It causes a great deal of irritation and discomfort in the abdomen. Proper bowel movement gets altered resulting in either constipation or diarrhea while also changing the stool consistency. Women are prone to this syndrome especially after the age of 25. The primary causes of irritable bowel syndrome are not known, though intestinal infections are found to have induced it. Some types of food can also cause sensitivity in the bowel region. Moreover, genetics can play a role in the development of this ailment. Stress is said to trigger irritable bowel syndrome, thereby aggravating the condition.The occurrence of muscle spasms inside the intestines is also a common phenomenon. A person suffering from irritable bowel syndrome constantly experiences extreme fatigue, bloating, anxiety, and stomach ache. It is also characterized by a continuous sensation of incomplete stool movement, even when the bowel has been emptied.Although it is not a serious medical condition, it can have a negative influence on an individual’s lifestyle. An individual can encounter any of the three types of the ailment. If IBS is characterized by recurrent constipation, it is known as IBS-C. On the other hand, the one characterized by chronic diarrhea is known as IBS-D. If there is an occurrence of both constipation and diarrhea alternately, the condition is known as alternating (mixed) IBS or IBS-A (IBS-M). When the individual does not face any typical symptoms of the above three types, he said to fall into the category of unsubtyped IBS. Irritable bowel syndrome can be troublesome if it is not managed properly. The best remedy is to have an IBS diet plan that is low on FODMAPs. The abbreviation FODMAP stands for Fermentable, Oligo, Di-, Monosaccharides, And Polyols: a series of carbohydrates that are not easily processed by the small intestine.

Knee pain is a common problem that arises in knee joints, kneecap, ligaments, and cartilage of the knee. It is a common complaint faced by people of all age groups most of which is the result of an injury. It is one of the most common problems faced by the aged patients above 50 years of age. Knee pain is evident in people who are overweight or mostly due to wear and tear of the joints of the leg. Medical conditions associated with knee pain include arthritis, gout, and infections, etc. It is a prolonged pain, swelling, or sensitivity in one or both knees, the cause of which can be experienced by the symptoms we experience. Every person’s experience with chronic knee pain will be different based on the pain involved. Many people are most likely to develop knee problem because of various reasons like work, sports and recreation activities, exercise or having a disease such as osteoporosis or arthritis. Injuries are the most common cause of knee problems and may occur by a direct blow to the knee or from twisting, bending the knee, or falling on the knee. Pain, bruising, or swelling may develop within minutes of the injury. Nerves or blood vessels may get damaged during the injury. Because the knee joints tolerate the weight of our body when we jump or run, they become more prone to damage. The solution for chronic knee pain involves managing pain and working to reduce irritation to the knee by regular exercise, painkillers or by using kneecaps. The exact cause of knee pain can be determined on examination of a knee joint by a doctor. The structure of the knee and the components involved makes it vulnerable to various types of injuries, swelling and chronic pain. Different types of treatment for knee pain: