5 foods osteoporosis patients must avoid

5 foods osteoporosis patients must avoid

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the bones weaken and degenerate due to the loss of tissues. As a result, they become brittle and are largely vulnerable to pain and fractures, often leading to disability. There are certain food habits that hasten the process of bone degeneration in patients. Give below are five foods to avoid in the meals made for individuals suffering from osteoporosis plus certain medications for the condition. 5 Foods Osteoporosis Patients Need to Stay Away From Salt When the concentration of sodium in our blood increases, it leads to excessive loss of calcium through the kidneys, which can worsen the process of bone degeneration during osteoporosis. Thus, it is important to limit the amount of salt we consume or the amount of high-sodium foods we include in our meals. Carbonated beverages It has been observed that excessive consumption of carbonated beverages, such as colas and sodas, may have adverse effects on the bone density and bone health in an individual. These contain phosphorus, which has been linked to causing bone degeneration in people with osteoporosis. Moreover, the refined sugars present in such beverages are also considered harmful for bone health since they they cause excessive excretion of calcium through urine. Red meat Animal meat, especially red meat, is known to be extremely rich in protein. However, these animal-based proteins also contain a large amount of sulfur in it. To account for the higher sulfur quantity, the body compensates by excreting calcium, thus compromising bone density in people with osteoporosis. So, it is beneficial to have plant-based alternatives such as nuts, legumes, etc. Alcohol Alcoholic beverages, such as red wine, can be beneficial for the body only when consumed in moderation. However, excess consumption of spirits can have several adverse effects on the body, including loss of bone mass, decreased bone formation, and a heightened vulnerability to severe fractures.
6 foods that can help fight prostate cancer

6 foods that can help fight prostate cancer

Prostate cancer occurs when cells grow uncontrollably in the prostate gland. The prostate is a small gland between the base of the penis and rectum. While no specific food can cure prostate cancer, consuming lots of nutritious foods is crucial to improve the condition. Besides, eating healthy helps an individual deal with the side effects of various cancer treatments. Here, we’ve listed six foods that can help fight prostate cancer and improve overall health. Broccoli Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables. Not only is it loaded with a variety of beneficial nutrients, but it also contains certain phytochemicals that may target and destroy cancer cells in the prostate. The vegetable contains compounds that can reduce an individual’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Tomatoes When it comes to foods to help fight prostate cancer, tomatoes are one of the best choices. That’s because they contain a powerful plant compound called lycopene; it’s an antioxidant that may reduce cell damage and slow down the production of cancer cells. Those who don’t eat tomatoes can source lycopene from fruits like watermelon, guava, and papaya. Fatty fish Fatty fish are full of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats have proven to reduce inflammation, and some studies also show that they can inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors. It’s best to choose fatty fish found in cold water, such as salmon, herring, mackerel, sardine, and trout. People with prostate cancer must try to consume fish at least two to three times per week. Green tea Green tea is chock-full of antioxidants. It contains certain chemicals that can prevent prostate cancer and also reduce the risk of advanced-stage prostate cancer. So, it’s an excellent drink for people who’ve been diagnosed with early-stage cancer. Aim to drink at least one cup of green tea per day.
Remedies and food plans to manage lung cancer

Remedies and food plans to manage lung cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, there have been about 236,740 lung cancer cases so far in the year 2022. The condition is commonly diagnosed in adults between 65 to 70 years of age; however, it may occur earlier too. Lung cancer can be classified into small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This article talks about the treatments for NSCLC and foods and remedies to manage lung cancer. Treatment methods for non-small cell lung cancer Once NSCLC metastasizes, it is challenging to find a complete cure for it; however, certain targeted therapies and kinase inhibitors may stump the progress of the condition or contain it successfully. Given below are some treatments for NSCLC at different stages. IMFINZI® IMFINZI® is an option for patients with Stage 3 lung cancer that cannot be treated via surgery. It is most commonly used to treat NSCLC in cases where the disease has not progressed after concurrent chemoradiation therapy. TAGRISSO® TAGRISSO® is a once-daily targeted therapy treatment for those with epidermal growth factor receptor (EFGR) plus NSCLC. It helps prevent lung cancer from recurring post-surgery. TAGRISSO® may be taken with or without food. GILOTRIF® GILOTRIF® is indicated as a treatment option for patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors have non-resistant EGFR mutations. It can also be used for patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC progressing after platinum-based chemotherapy. Foods that help manage lung cancer Fish Vitamin D is believed to be an important component for people battling lung cancer. Salmon, along with other fatty fish like mackerel and herring, contain an abundant amount of vitamin D. It is recommended to include salmon in meals regularly. Fruits and vegetables Fruits like pears and apples contain phytonutrients and antioxidants, which have powerful anti-cancer benefits. It is advisable to consume at least five servings of fruits and vegetables in a day.
Foods to Avoid When You Have Diabetes

Foods to Avoid When You Have Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition which can lead to very serious consequences if not kept under control. Unchecked diabetes may result in cardiovascular problems, blindness, kidney diseases, and various other complications. Aside from medication, there are certain lifestyle and dietary changes which can help an individual manage diabetes. Eating a well-balanced diet helps patients diagnosed with this condition maintain their health more easily. Given below are foods that you should avoid when you have diabetes. Sugary drinks Sugary drinks should be completely avoided when you have diabetes. Not only are these very high in carbohydrate content, but they are also rich in fructose, which causes insulin resistance. Studies show that when you drink sweetened beverages, risks of a diabetes-associated condition such as fatty liver become very high. High fructose content triggers metabolic changes and leads to belly fat, high triglyceride, and blood cholesterol levels. Trans fats Trans fats are very unhealthy and are found in peanut butter, margarine, creamers, spreads, and frozen meals. Food manufacturers often add this to muffins, crackers, and baked products so that they last longer. Trans fats do not spike blood sugar levels directly, but they can cause inflammation, belly fat, and insulin resistance. They also lower good cholesterol levels and impair the function of arteries. White bread, rice, and pasta None of these foods are good for people affected by diabetes because they are processed and high in carbohydrates. It is advisable to stay away from bagels, white bread, and other foods made of refined flour. These raise blood sugar levels in those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Flavored yogurt You must avoid fruit-flavored yogurts as these contain a lot of sugar. Instead, you can consume whole-milk yogurt which is a healthier alternative and beneficial for gut health and weight control. Fried foods Deep-fried foods like french fries and packaged foods must not be part of your diet, as these can produce toxic compounds like aldehydes, which heighten risks of diseases.
Here is How You Can Identify the Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Here is How You Can Identify the Symptoms of Osteoporosis

When the body loses bone mass faster than it can restore its bone health, this bone disease is known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis causes bone loss and affects the mineral density that makes the bones weak and more susceptible to fractures. An estimated 10 million people in the country suffer from osteoporosis and 80% of the cases reported are women. Identifying the symptoms Osteoporosis is a “silent” disease as one may suffer from the symptoms and be completely unaware of the condition. There are a few ways to watch out for these osteoporosis symptoms that cause pain and can affect a person’s mobility. Some can be identified in the early stages while severe symptoms are only evident in the advanced stages. Symptoms in the early stages A developing condition of osteoporosis can be identified when even the slightest of impact from a fall or injury causes the bones to break. One can watch out for these osteoporosis symptoms in the early stages. Weak gums A receding gum line suggests the jaw is losing bone mass. The gums become weak and can no longer anchor the teeth. Low grip strength If one experiences trouble holding onto an object or maintaining a strong grip, it can be a result of a developing osteoporosis condition. Studies have associated low bone mineral density to reduced hand grip. Brittle fingernails Physical changes in one’s fingernails as a result of compromised bone health is another possible indicator in the early stages. Symptoms in later stages One can watch out for these osteoporosis symptoms in the advanced stages as the bone deterioration increases in intensity. Height loss Loss of height is the most noticeable symptom caused due to the compression of the spine as a result of bone loss. Fractures Fragile bones are more susceptible to fractures and some of the most harmless actions including a sneeze or cough can trigger a mild fracture.
4 Things to Avoid When You Quit Smoking

4 Things to Avoid When You Quit Smoking

You’ve finally decided to stop smoking. Great! Now comes the tricky part of sustaining this resolution. Kicking this habit takes a lot more than simply dumping that cigarette pack. While it can be challenging to practice abstinence, there are certain measures you can take to ensure that you succeed in this endeavor. In this article, we’ll discuss “what not to do” when you are trying to quit smoking: Don’t be pessimistic An intense craving for nicotine after you quit smoking is a very natural reaction. It can be accompanied by symptoms like sweating, tingling in hands and feet, constipation, headaches, insomnia, and anxiety. These symptoms provoke negative feelings that could eventually lead to a relapse. The only way to weather this period is by staying patient and focusing your energy on the present, which can include your work, partner, children, friends, and hobbies. Remember that thinking about your smoking history will not do you any good, so make a conscious effort of living in the moment. Don’t be negligent about your health Cessation is a time when you need to pay extra attention to your physical and mental needs. Doing so will help you deal with any withdrawal symptoms more effectively. Neglecting your health will only weaken your resolve and might trigger a relapse to the toxic habit. Following the mentioned tips can help you ditch smoking for good: Wholesome diet : To eliminate all the toxins accumulated in your body, you need to follow a well-balanced diet. It should ideally contain nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, especially those high in vitamin C. Your diet should also include milk and dairy items. Studies suggest that drinking milk made the taste of cigarettes worse. So if you are having strong nicotine cravings, you can have dairy to keep it in control. Exercise :
Reduce excessive sweating with these foods

Reduce excessive sweating with these foods

While sweating is completely natural and, in fact, healthy, excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis can be caused by underlying health conditions like diabetes, menopause, and tuberculosis. Following a nutrient-dense food regimen plays a crucial role in keeping one healthy, and in this case, it can help one manage hyperhidrosis. On that note, here is a list of must-have foods one should eat daily to keep their body cool and decrease sweating. Foods to eat Water-dense fruits and vegetables Staying hydrated is a great way to manage excessive sweating. One can add water-dense fruits and vegetables to their meals in addition to drinking water and beverages that are low in sugar. Regularly eating watermelon, apples, oranges, peaches, pineapples, spinach, lettuce, cucumbers, bell peppers, strawberries, grapes, celery, eggplant, and red cabbage can reduce excessive sweating episodes. Calcium-rich foods like low-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt Calcium is an essential mineral that regulates the body’s temperature. Getting enough calcium through meals is vital for those dealing with excessive sweating. A few calcium-rich foods include milk, cheese, yogurt, and dark leafy greens. Those who have been told to decrease their fat intake due to health reasons can look for low-fat substitutes of yogurt, cheese, and milk. It is important to note that having low-fat foods can be beneficial for those with hyperhidrosis, as the body needs more energy to digest high-fat foods, leading to excessive sweating. Green tea Decaffeinated green tea is a great way to keep the body cool. This beverage is known to help calm the nerves, thereby reducing sweating. One can think of replacing their daily cup of Joe with tea. Magnesium-rich foods like almond, cashew, spinach, and soy Excessive sweating can cause a deficiency in magnesium, so it is important to include foods like spinach, almonds, soy, pumpkin seeds, cashews, and dark chocolate in one’s meals.
5 worst foods that impact cognitive function and memory

5 worst foods that impact cognitive function and memory

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.
6 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

6 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

Every once in a while, there’s a question that even the most outgoing of individuals find uncomfortable discussing with a gynecologist. While it’s normal to feel that way out of fear of judgment, most gynecologists will tell you that these topics come up regularly and are vital to ensure that you are in good reproductive and vaginal health. Here are some of the most frequently asked “uncomfortable” questions at the gynecologist’s office: Should I groom my pubic hair before my visit? If it’s your first time visiting a gynecologist, or you’re meeting a new one, it can be a very intimidating experience and cause you to ponder whether you need to groom your pubic hair in advance. Instead of thinking of what gynecologists think about your grooming practices, it is best to go as you are as long as you feel comfortable and clean. Does everything look normal? Oftentimes, you end up thinking about how your vulva looks and how it compares to others. This is completely normal, but it is vital to remember that vulvas come in various shapes and sizes and look different for everyone. If you notice abnormal growth or abrupt changes, it may be advisable to talk about them with your gynecologist. Is vaginal discharge normal? The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, making discharge a completely regular part of its cleansing cycle. The color and consistency of your discharge change throughout your menstrual cycle and may even increase during pregnancy due to changes in hormone levels. However, if you begin to notice changes in your discharge pattern or an odor, it may be a sign of infection that you should have evaluated professionally. Why does my vaginal discharge smell? The vagina is a complex ecosystem of bacteria that can never fully be odorless. This is also impacted by one’s activity levels, lifestyle, and choice of undergarments.
5 Home Remedies to Manage Migraines

5 Home Remedies to Manage Migraines

Migraines are severe headaches that are recurring and can last for hours or even days. There is no specific cause known for migraines. As a result, no cure has been found yet. It is usually triggered by several factors like hormonal changes, emotional triggers (stress, anxiety, depression), environmental triggers (smoke or loud noises), and flickering screens. Sometimes, even certain foods or drinks can trigger migraine attacks. These include alcohol and caffeine. While triggers are different for each individual, there are some general home remedies that can help you manage your pain when a migraine comes knocking at your doorstep. Let’s look at some remedies that can help you manage migraine attacks better: Medicinal properties of ginger Ginger is known to be a medicinal herb and has been used as a home remedy for centuries now. Ginger root has anti-inflammatory properties that block out the prostaglandins which cause the pain during a migraine. You can use chopped ginger root in your food or you may also make ginger tea and consume it 2-3 times during the day. Cabbage paste Your simple kitchen ingredients are full of surprises. Cabbage has properties that reduce pain and swelling and can be used in the form of a paste to alleviate your migraine pain. All you need to do is take some fresh cabbage leaves and crush them until it leaves out some juices. Then, take a clean muslin cloth and apply this crushed cabbage paste on the cloth. You can then place this on your forehead until the paste dries out, and repeat as needed. Carrot and spinach juice It is studied that magnesium deficiency can trigger migraine attacks, so having a diet rich in magnesium can help avoid migraines. Dark leafy vegetables have magnesium and sodium. This organic sodium rehydrates the body, unlike the sodium associated with table salt, and helps in relieving pain.
8 foods that can help soothe migraine headaches

8 foods that can help soothe migraine headaches

Eating right is one of the best possible ways to soothe migraine headaches and issues. Incorporating preventive foods into one’s diet and limiting foods which trigger migraines is a good way to begin soothing migraine headaches. In fact, studies show that eliminating possible dietary triggers (including eating vegan diets) could benefit people with migraines. Here are some pain-safe foods that people with migraines can eat for getting relief from migraine headaches: Salmon One of the best foods which help with migraine is salmon. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which improve the health of arteries, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and the risk of cancer. This fish also has balanced quantities of omega 3-6-9 fatty acid and is loaded with minerals, resulting in anti-inflammatory properties. Salmon also features large amounts of B vitamins, which have been proven to be helpful for managing migraines. Try eating two to three servings of salmon every week. Dark chocolate Chocolate contains large amounts of magnesium, which is one of the most common minerals that help in managing migraine. The mineral is important for both sleep and relaxation, and chocolate is one of the richest sources of magnesium, containing at least 70% cacao. However, people should check with their doctors for ruling out dark chocolate as a trigger for migraines. Figs When combined with other electrolytes, potassium helps the body fight inflammation and dehydration, both of which are associated with migraine. Figs are an excellent source of potassium. Make sure that your body gets this essential mineral from your diet. You will have to check with your doctor if you are sensitive to foods that contain tyramine. If you are, then try eating fresh figs since it’s the dried ones which contain tyramine. Shrimp s An antioxidant called astaxanthin is found in high quantities in shrimps, which helps the body fight inflammation, helping with migraine issues.
6 beneficial foods to ease the symptoms of arthritis

6 beneficial foods to ease the symptoms of arthritis

Arthritis is a group of diseases that can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain in the joints and can end up affecting people of all ethnic backgrounds, genders, and ages. Arthritis is of different types. One of the common types is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease wherein the joints come under attack by the immune system. Another common type is osteoarthritis, which develops due to overuse of the joints. Fortunately, there are certain foods that can help manage the condition effectively by relieving joint pain and also by easing any inflammation caused. Listed below are some of the best foods that can help people suffering from arthritis manage the condition more effectively. Fatty fish: Fatty fish such as trout, sardines, mackerel, and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids that possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that people consuming fatty fish showed decreased levels of specific inflammation-related compounds, less morning stiffness, and joint pain intensity. Fatty fish are also rich in vitamin D, which can help prevent symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. According to the AHA (American Heart Association), including a minimum of around two servings of fatty fish in one’s diet helps fight against inflammation effectively. Garlic: Garlic and its components are full of health benefits as they possess cancer-fighting properties and are also responsible for lowering the risks of dementia and heart disease. Additionally, garlic has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties which could go a long way in helping reduce the symptoms of arthritis and even in strengthening the immune system. Ginger: Apart from the fact that it lends ample flavor to sweets, soups, and teas, ginger has also been shown to help in easing the symptoms of arthritis. According to studies conducted, ginger has shown to improve knee pain symptoms in those who consumed it. It also showed that ginger and its components help in blocking the production of substances that increase inflammation in the body as well.