Lung conditions affect a lot of people across the globe. In most cases, people tackle these conditions and diseases with various treatments. But, aside from treatments, individuals can fight these ailments and promote lung health with the help of food. Certain foods can strengthen the lungs and keep symptoms at bay. But, some can aggravate the condition, negatively impacting lung health, increasing the risk of lung diseases. Read to know foods that you should avoid. Bread Bread is one of the foods that can contribute to poor lung health. Bread is made of simple carbohydrates such as refined flour and sugar. These foods are known to affect the overall health of the body. They can even have a negative impact on lung health. This is because these foods are harder to break down and require the body to work harder to metabolize. Foods that are low in carbohydrates are less taxing on the body. They also produce less carbon dioxide in the body, which bodes well for those with existing lung conditions. To promote better lung health, individuals can opt for complex carbohydrates instead. Chips Processed foods, in general, are not good for the overall health of the body. They are packed with saturated fats, preservatives, and other harmful food additives. Processed foods such as potato chips can wreak havoc on your lung health. The salt in these foods contributes to increased blood pressure. It can also increase water retention in the body, which can eventually leak fluids into the lungs and make it difficult to breathe. Processed foods also negatively affect the cardiovascular system and heart. Carbonated beverages Carbonated beverages are also filled with sugar, carbohydrates, and carbonation. All these elements can contribute to an increase in weight and also result in bloating. Not to mention, bloating or the development of gas in the digestive system can lead to an increase in pressure on the lungs.

The colon is the longest part of the large intestine. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients and storing solid waste before transporting it to the rectum. The formation of tumors in the colon is known as cancer. The tumors lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, and irritable bowel syndrome. There are multiple methods to manage colon cancer. However, these treatments depend on the stage and location of the growth. Diagnoses at home Identifying colon cancer in the early stages can help ensure a more effective treatment plan. Colorguard is one such tool used to diagnose colorectal cancer at home. The kit is available with a doctor’s prescription. It can be used to screen for cancer in adults 45 years of age and older by detecting specific DNA markers and blood in the stool. FDA-approved treatments There are several FDA- approved treatments prescribed by doctors to manage colon cancer. A few of them are include: Avastin (Bevacizumab) The injection is approved to treat metastatic colorectal cancer in case the colon cancer has not spread to other parts of the body. The treatment is combined with intravenous fluorouracil-based chemotherapy. Xeloda (Capecitabine) The FDA-approved treatment is prescribed when colon cancer may have spread to the lymph nodes close to the colon after surgery. It is also prescribed if cancer has spread from the colon to other body parts. Foods to manage colon cancer Foods may not eliminate cancer. But having proper nutrition may prevent additional tumor growth. A few healthy foods are: Fruits Apples, bananas, blueberries, and oranges are beneficial for colon cancer. These fruits contain antioxidants, fibers, and phytochemicals known to protect the patient from digestive complications. Nuts Nuts like cashews, almonds, pistachios, and hazelnuts are rich in fiber, flavonoids, and healthy fatty acids. These properties may reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.

Daily nutrition impacts overall health, so one must maintain a healthy intake of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to keep vital organs in check. Simultaneously, it is necessary to avoid triggering foods and beverages that spike blood sugar and blood pressure levels. These spikes can affect the eyes, heart, brain, and overall metabolism resulting in a number of health complications. Therefore, here are foods to avoid to lower the risk of dry eyes and irritation. Processed meats Processed meats contain a lot of unhealthy fats, additives, and preservatives. These elements spike blood pressure (hypertension) and increase the risk of hypertensive atrophy. The condition mainly damages healthy blood vessels in the eye, causing blurry vision. High blood pressure also triggers a buildup of fluid behind the retina and blocks the blood flow to nerves that control vision. One must avoid excess consumption of red meats like beef, pork, lamb, sausages, bacon, and other cuts sold at the deli counter in the supermarket. Foods rich in unsaturated fats and sugar Cooking in hydrogenated vegetable oils increases the intake of unsaturated fats. Safflower, sunflower, corn, soybean, and sesame oils all contain linoleic acid. Studies show linolenic acid increases the risk of inflammation with dry eyes syndrome. It is unclear how severe the effects may be, but experts recommend switching to healthier substitutes. Also, avoid using refined sugar, one of the main ingredients found in most processed foods, baked goods, and confectionaries. Sugar triggers a blood glucose imbalance and affects the natural production of tears worsening the symptoms linked to dry eyes. Fried foods and store-bought beverages Deep-fried foods, including french fries, chips, and any other sodium or sugar-rich confectionery, severely increases bad cholesterol levels. Digesting fried foods releases free radicals that cause oxidative damage affecting healthy cells in the eyes. Free radicals are known to increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy associated with dry eyes syndrome.

Women must visit a gynecologist regularly to ensure their health and well-being. Although being open and frank during gynecological appointments is essential, some questions may be awkward or uncomfortable. Although by answering them, we hope to encourage women to prioritize their health and seek the care they need from gynecologists without hesitation. So, here are six questions that women may find embarrassing during a gynecological visit but should ask for better clarity. Is it necessary to reveal one’s sexual activity? One of the most common questions that can cause embarrassment is related to sexual activity. Gynecologists inquire about sexual activity to assess potential risks and ensure they offer the right advice regarding birth control, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and any other concerns that may arise due to sexual activity. Answering honestly helps the gynecologist provide the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Are there any issues with my menstrual cycle? Gynecologists may inquire about the regularity, length, and intensity of menstrual cycles to evaluate one’s overall reproductive health, potential hormonal imbalances, or underlying conditions. Is it normal to experience pain during sexual intercourse? The pain may sometimes result from infections, hormonal imbalances, vaginal dryness, or lack of lubrication due to nervousness. One can talk about ways to find better ways to alleviate the pain. Should I be worried about changes in my breasts? Changes in breast size, shape, or texture can indicate hormonal fluctuations, benign conditions, or, in rare cases, breast cancer. Is the odor or discharge normal? A strong vaginal odor or any discharge may, at times, be caused due to an infection or poor hygiene, but most bodily fluids are considered normal, and any changes in them may be due to lifestyle factors. Does libido get affected due to hormonal birth control? Hormonal birth control is usually designed to suppress ovulation, so there’s a possibility that it may affect one’s health.

Hepatitis – types and contributing factors Hepatitis is described as an inflammation in the liver. Inflammation is essentially any tissue’s natural response to injury or irritation, and the general effects of inflammation are swelling, redness, and pain. There is a wide range of causes of the condition, but they differ based on the type of hepatitis that one is affected with. For example, various types of viral hepatitis involve viral infections rather than any other disorder in the body. Hepatitis can be acute or chronic depending on the severity, and there are various types: Types Hepatitis A This type of hepatitis does not result in chronic infections and typically involves no complications. It is one of the most common food-borne infections, and the liver takes approximately two months to properly heal from hepatitis A. In rare cases, hepatitis A can lead to liver failure, which can be fatal. The most common prevention method for hepatitis A is vaccination. Hepatitis B Above 70% of all diagnosed occurrences of hepatitis B have been found in young people from the age of 15 to 39. It usually takes people 6 months to completely recover from the illness, but some may suffer from a life-long, chronic infection, which leads to ongoing liver damage. If an individual contracts hepatitis B at an early age, it has a higher chance of becoming chronic. Hepatitis C Hepatitis C is among the most common causes of liver disease in the country and also the biggest reason for people to get a liver transplant. Around 80% of patients suffering from hepatitis C develop a chronic liver infection as it is difficult to diagnose hepatitis C because it comes with no noticeable symptoms. Unlike the other types, there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. Contributing factors to the development of hepatitis Contributing factors are simple incidents, habits, or occurrences that can increase one’s chances of contracting hepatitis.

Women who consume a lot of vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables, are less likely to develop ovarian cancer. This cancer is one of the major causes of deaths. Since the symptoms are barely noticeable in its initial stages, people often get the required treatment after the condition has reached its advanced stage. Currently, there are no screening methods that can detect cancer at an earlier stage. Cruciferous, along with other vegetables, completely eliminates the odds of developing ovarian cancer. Cruciferous vegetables are plants that grow in the cold conditions and get their flowers with 4 petals that are in the shape of a crucifix or a cross. Some examples of these vegetables include kale, bok choy, daikon, mustard leaves and seeds, collard greens, turnips, arugula, wasabi, horseradish, watercress, rutabaga, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, cauliflower, radish, and cabbage. Moreover, cruciferous veggies possess high amounts of phytochemicals. When these phytochemicals are broken down, they transform into isothiocyanates. There are many studies that prove that isothiocyanates help stop the development of many types of cancers by inhibiting the growth of tumors. These vegetables have been proven to reduce inflammation that can assist in the prevention of cancer or diseases related to the heart as well. Those who love eating fresh fruits and vegetables have a possibility to lead a better life. However, when consumed in excess, like any other food, these too can be fatal. Always consult a doctor about your diet and the quantity of food one should maintain. Sadly, people who eat more of cured, processed, and red meats are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. This has been found in many on-going experiments as well. Studies proved that individuals who eat more cruciferous and yellow veggies experience a lot of benefits than those who do not. Additionally, women who consume milk of any kind may have a shorter survival period as compared to those who did not have milk.

Gout or arthritis is one of the most common problems that affect both men and women at large. The symptoms of gout include severe pain in the joints, inflammation, and redness that causes extreme discomfort. Mainly, the big toe is affected, causing uneasiness while walking or doing normal chores. Other joints affected by gout include the knees, elbows, joints between the fingers, and such. It is mainly caused due to the accumulation of excess uric acid in the joints. The patients suffering from gout have to pay thorough attention to their regular diet so that they can keep the pain at bay. Here are some of the superfoods for gout to help prevent gout episodes. Superfoods for gout Patients suffering from gout should follow a strict diet to manage the condition, but the superfoods for gout are both delicious and healthy for the body. The foods prescribed for patients must have lower purine content as purine increases uric acid levels in the body. Here are some foods to help with the condition: Nuts Almost all types of nuts are considered to be superfoods for gout as they are loaded with vitamins and minerals, which help in regaining lost bone strength and repairing damaged tissues in the long run. Whole grains Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and barley are undoubtedly the best superfoods for gout. These are rich in fiber, which helps in maintaining a healthy gut. They are also loaded with nutrients and vitamins that cater to the body’s daily requirements. Legumes Legumes are highly recommended as one of the beneficial foods for patients of gout, especially because of the range of nutrients. Legumes like soybeans, lentils, tofu, and other types of beans are extremely helpful in reducing pain and inflammation of the affected region. Fruits Fruits ideally work wonders for health and are downright considered a superfood for gout.

The prostate is a tiny gland in the body responsible for producing seminal fluids. Certain risk factors like old age, genetics, and race can affect the prostate and lead to health problems. These include the unnatural enlargement of the prostate, prostate inflammation, and prostate cancer. Fortunately, consuming certain foods and treatments, such as those listed below, can help control prostate-related issues. Foods to boost prostate health Fish Fish like herring, salmon, and lake trout are loaded with polyunsaturated fats like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. They help reduce harmful cholesterol levels and manage high blood pressure, even reducing the chances of a heart attack. These health improvements are highly beneficial for better prostate health. Nuts Pecans, walnuts, and almonds are a few nuts rich in healthy fats. They are also known to significantly improve brain health. Another good source of vital nutrients is Brazil nuts, which are rich in vitamin E, calcium, and selenium. Together, these nutrients are known to lower the chances of developing prostate cancer. Berries Adding berries to your meals can significantly help improve prostate health. Blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Antioxidants prevent any cell damage that may be caused by certain molecules, therefore avoiding the risk of cancer. Vitamin C can alleviate the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) through urination and reducing any swelling. Watermelon Watermelon is rich in vitamin A and C and is also sodium and fat-free. All these aspects make this an ideal fruit to boost overall well being. The fruit also contains lycopene – an antioxidant known to reduce any potential cancer risk. Medications to improve prostate health Alpha-blockers Prescription medications such as Alfuzosin (Uroxatral), Prazosin (Minipress), Silodosin (Rapaflo), Tamsulosin (Flomax), and Terazosin (Hytrin) can relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, making it easy to urinate.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the patient’s bones become brittle and porous. This increases the chances of getting bone fractures and experiencing joint pain. Sometimes bones become so brittle that coughing or bending over causes a fracture. Although osteoporosis does not have a permanent cure, there are ways to manage its symptoms and strengthen weakened bones. Listed in this article are some of the steps that can be taken to promote bone health naturally. Opt for calcium-rich foods Calcium plays an integral part in the maintenance of bone density for osteoporosis patients, which is why it needs to be incorporated in every meal. Dairy products are an ideal source of calcium. However, calcium-fortified food options like cereals, yogurt, juices, and more can be equally resourceful. Include physical activity In our fast-paced lives, physical activity often takes a backseat. This lack of daily physical activity can prove to be a concern, especially for patients with osteoporosis. Strength training or weight-bearing exercises like swimming, walking, running, hiking, and more are recommended by health care professionals. Eat vitamin-rich foods While vitamin D helps the body improve calcium absorption, vitamin K2 ensures that the absorbed calcium is not lost. Both these crucial components can be obtained from food. However, in some cases, osteoporosis patients might need to be prescribed supplements to overcome vitamin D deficiency. Avoid carbonated drinks One of the negative outcomes of sodas and other fizzy beverages is the loss of bone strength. It is believed that the phosphoric acid present in these drinks hinders the body’s absorption of calcium and results in weaker bones and decreased bone density. Limit sugar intake Unchecked sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, decreased bone density, and increased risk of osteoporosis, all of which needs to be avoided in order to promote good bone health.

Family remedy books as well as research state that natural produce goes a long way in helping one deal with a health issue. Be it a common cold or flu or a long-term illness such as arthritis, natural foods, in combination with other remedies, help one manage the symptoms effectively. In fact, there has been research that states the presence of natural compounds that could help in the prevention of skin cancer. Anti-cancer options derived from natural resources Research shows that anti-cancer remedies are dominantly derived from natural resources like marine, microbial, and botanical sources. Skin cancer, specifically cutaneous malignant melanoma, is among the aggressive types of cancers that have a high mortality rate. Therefore, there has been a pressing need to study flavonoids, terpenoids, carotenoids, sulforaphane, vitamins, some polyphenols and crude plant extracts. These phytochemicals have been observed for their anti-skin cancer or anti-melanoma activities. Natural compounds that help combat skin cancer After discovering which natural compounds can be used to treat skin cancer, the best way to help prevent the illness is to consume these compounds in their most natural form. This article compiles a list anti-skin cancer compounds and which foods are a rich source of them. Flavonoids This plant-based compound comes with a variety of health benefits, and is renowned for its ability to reduce the risk of several types of cancers. Foods that are a potent source of flavonoids include berries, cabbage, onions, kale, tea, dark chocolate, parsley, soybeans, and citrus fruits. Terpenoids Terpenes are found in many spices, herbs, fruits, and vegetables. To load up on terpenoids, consume foods like mangoes, apples, citrus fruits, and spices like basil, rosemary, cinnamon, oregano, cloves, lavender, and black pepper. Carotenoids This compound is associated with an orange pigment, and that’s why foods high in carotenoids are in the shade of orange.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a health condition that affects about 30% of people affected by psoriasis, bringing the number of patients in the country to around 2 million. Just like psoriasis causes inflammation of the skin, Psoriatic arthritis results in inflammation of the joints. The best way to manage this condition is a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Here are some essential management tips necessary to manage psoriatic arthritis and reduce flare-ups: Treatment options Doctors might have to go through various treatment plans since finding one that suits the patient isn’t easy. That said, there are some options that show substantial results and are commonly prescribed. These include the following. OTEZLA® Approved by the FDA, OTEZLA® is a prescription treatment option for patients with psoriatic arthritis. It acts by inhibiting the phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzyme that is the cause of the increased inflammatory response of the body. Regular use of OTEZLA® has proven beneficial for patients and can be combined with phototherapy or topical treatments. RINVOQ® RINVOQ® is an oral treatment option for active psoriatic arthritis patients. Doctors usually prescribe this treatment option when patients fail to respond to one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. It is an oral treatment option used for adult PsA patients only. Foods to eat and avoid Omega 3 helps lower inflammation in the body and improves bone health. Some foods that need to be included in regular meals are salmon, walnuts, and seeds. Fruits and vegetable portions also need to be increased as they provide the body with necessary nutrients and have anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, foods with inflammatory properties can contribute to the worsening of symptoms in patients with PsA. These include foods like dairy and dairy products, sugar, processed meat, red meat, fried foods, and processed food products. Lowering the intake of these food groups can show improvement in the patient’s condition.

Migraine is a neurological condition that is often accompanied by a host of painful and discomforting symptoms like sensitivity to light, dizziness, and nausea or vomiting. To cope with this, it is important to identify the common triggers of a migraine headache. Studies say that frequently reported migraine triggers are food items, and eliminating these food items, or at least limiting their consumption, is crucial for treatment: Chocolate Chocolate is often considered to be a risky migraine trigger and is among the most common triggers as it is replete with caffeine. Chocolate also contains the amino acid tyramine that adds to the intensity of the headaches. However, chocolates also have dopamine and serotonin, which are beneficial, so consuming chocolate in moderation may prove to be beneficial for the treatment. Caffeine An occasional cup of coffee does not cause a painful migraine attack, but drinking coffee or caffeinated drinks regularly can worsen the frequency and severity of headaches. Due to its vasoconstrictive properties, caffeine restricts blood flow to the brain, causing relief in the case of a painful headache, but it is best to avoid too much of coffee if you experience frequent headaches. Frozen foods Studies show that there is a strong link between frozen foods and migraine headaches. Consumption of frozen foods like ice cream, frozen yogurt, a slush, and such may provoke strong headaches. These items contain substances that affect blood flow to the brain, leading to headaches that develop into migraines. Salty foods Salty foods are the most common triggers as high consumption of salty foods raises the sodium levels in your blood and increases blood pressure, which could increase the risk of migraine. Avoid eating too much salt or salty and processed food to prevent it. Pickled and fermented foods Pickled and fermented foods contain high levels of tyramine, which may trigger migraine headaches.