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Foods to help manage cholesterol

Foods to help manage cholesterol

There are two types of fats found in the bloodstream: good fats (high-density lipoprotein or HDL) and bad fats (low-density lipoprotein or LDL). An imbalance in these levels can trigger problems linked to cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular health complications. It is possible to manage and maintain a good balance between LDL, HDL, and Triglyceride levels with changes in food habits and lifestyle. Medications additionally help manage optimum levels. Fruits and vegetables Eggplant and lentils are rich in dietary fibers that aid digestion. Okra contains a gel that binds to the fat and processes it more efficiently during digestion. Avocados are rich in monosaturated fats that help lower and manage the bloodstream’s low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Raw garlic, when incorporated in meals regularly, can help manage serum cholesterol. Additionally, apples, strawberries, grapes, and a variety of citrus fruits are rich in a compound called pectin that helps lower LDL levels in the body. Whole grains, oatmeal, and nuts Whole grains like barley and oat brans are rich in soluble fibers. Switching to oatmeal in place of processed cereals for breakfast also helps absorb the bad fats in the bloodstream. Barley is rich in beta-glucans that bind with fats and bile salts to promote better digestion.
8 home remedies to help manage nasal polyps symptoms

8 home remedies to help manage nasal polyps symptoms

Nasal polyps are benign growth inside the nose that can vary in size depending on the advancement of the condition. Congestion, runny nose, and a blocked nose are its common symptoms. The symptoms of nasal polyps can make the person uncomfortable and hinder their daily routine. Read on to know about natural remedies for nasal polyps. Steam Steam from a long, warm bath or shower can thin the mucus, alleviating nasal congestion. This helps the person breathe better, enhancing sleep quality. Steam can also be taken through a hot bowl of water while covering the head with a towel. Nasal irrigation Using sterile saline solution to clean the nasal airway can ease the symptoms of nasal polyps like nasal congestion. There are neti pots as well as several sprays for nasal polyps relief available to help flush sinuses. Some of the nasal spray brands include prescribed corticosteroid nasal spray options like fluticasone, budesonide, beclomethasone, and ciclesonide. Ginger This root herb is packed with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help build immunity against  the common cold and its symptoms like a runny nose. The herb can be used to make warm tea or can be liberally used in food. Garlic Just like ginger, garlic is another herb that can be used in food preparations to make the most of its benefits.
Foods to eat and avoid for managing cancer

Foods to eat and avoid for managing cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It occurs when an abnormal cell starts multiplying rapidly in the body. Cancer can start almost anywhere, including breast, prostate, lungs, liver, or blood. While no particular food can cause or eliminate cancer, consuming and avoiding certain foods can reduce the risk of developing the disease and help fight it. Here are foods to eat and avoid for cancer, along with some medications and treatment options. Eat: Fatty fish Fatty fish are full of omega-3 fatty acids. These are healthy fats that have proven to reduce inflammation. Loading up on fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and herring can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and prostate cancer. Avoid: Alcohol The body releases acetaldehyde when processing alcohol. This chemical contributes to the development of cancerous tumors. Alcohol is linked to several cancers, including breast, liver, esophageal, and liver. It is vital to cut down, if possible eliminate, alcohol significantly. Eat: Green tea Green tea is chock-full of powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have been shown to possess cancer-fighting properties. Sipping green tea every day can prevent liver, lung, esophageal, skin, breast, and pancreatic cancer. Avoid: Processed meat The problem with processed meat is that it is preserved by smoking, salting, curing, or canning.
Cancer: Foods to eat and avoid

Cancer: Foods to eat and avoid

A well-planned nutrition regime goes a long way in maintaining good health. Such a step not only makes one fit but also reduces their risk of being diagnosed with cancers like chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). Age, ethnicity, and lifestyle patterns also play a role in this illness, but a huge part is the food one consumes. Take a look at the foods to eat and avoid for cancer. Foods that increase cancer risk Some foods to avoid being at risk of cancer are Red meat Quite a few labels use additives to preserve red meats like salami, ham, beef jerky, and sausage. Red meat is known to have carcinogens that are associated with colorectal and stomach cancer Alcohol Excessive alcohol consumption is linked with mouth, throat, esophagus, breast, liver, stomach, and bowel cancers. The risk of cancer when consuming alcohol varies among individuals.  Refine carbs and sugar Regularly including refined carbs and sugar in one’s meals increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One must avoid foods that have excess sugar and carbs as overconsumption can cause inflammation and oxidative stress. Foods that lower cancer risk These foods are highly beneficial for cancer prevention:
Top foods that may help prevent cancer

Top foods that may help prevent cancer

Cancer is caused by the abnormal growth of cells due to a genetic mutation. These cells multiply rapidly and spread to other organs once it achieves metastasis. Most types of cancers are slow-progressing and hard to cure. That said, the condition can be prevented. If not averted, it can be managed with changes in one’s food regime, taking certain medications, and undergoing therapy. Depending on the type, one can explore medications like VENCLEXTA® for relief. Top foods that reduce the risk of cancer Apples Apples are loaded with fiber and polyphenol compounds that fight the mutation brought on by cancer. Berries Blueberries, cherries, cranberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich sources of antioxidants, vitamin C, and polyphenol compounds. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and prevent further damage. Fruits rich in vitamin C and phytocompounds Oranges, grapes, and grapefruit are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, resveratrol, phytocompounds. These compounds reduce the risk of cell damage and mutation triggered by slow-progressing cancers. Cruciferous and beta-carotene-rich vegetables Asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, spinach, and carrots are rich in cancer-fighting flavonoids, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and other essential nutrients. In addition, chewing these foods releases protective enzymes that reduce the risk of prostate, colon, breast, lung, and stomach cancers.
Essential foods that can help fight asthma

Essential foods that can help fight asthma

Asthma refers to a common breathing condition where the airways narrow and swell, making breathing difficult, triggering symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Many individuals manage this condition with the help of medications and other treatments. But, many also try to keep their signs and symptoms at bay by eating certain foods and following a strict meal plan. In this article, we discuss a few foods that fight, relieve, and control asthma. Foods with high vitamin D When it comes to fighting asthma, foods with vitamin D can be a strong ally. Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D in the body are associated with an increase in the risk of developing asthma in both adults and children. Studies have also shown that adequate amounts of vitamin D can help reduce the risk of severe asthma episodes. Apart from strengthening bones, vitamin D is also known to support lung function and reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections, such as cold and flu. You can get your required amount of vitamin D from the sun or from your food. Foods that have high amounts of vitamin D include fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna; mushrooms; cheese; and egg yolks.
Foods to eat to manage hemophilia

Foods to eat to manage hemophilia

Hemophilia is a condition wherein the blood fails to clot quickly due to a lack of blood-clotting proteins. This means that those with this condition bleed for longer after sustaining an injury. In some cases, they may even bleed into their muscles and joints. While eating certain foods might not completely cure hemophilia, the right food habits will help manage the illness. Here are some foods to eat to manage hemophilia. Foods to eat Iron-rich foods like spinach Since hemophilia patients tend to lose more blood than healthier individuals, it is important for them to add iron-rich foods to their meals. Leafy green vegetables like spinach and broccoli are a great source of iron. Organ meats and poultry are calorie-dense and among the rich sources of iron. However, just consuming iron-rich foods alone is not sufficient. It is also important to increase one’s vitamin C intake, as that helps in iron absorption.  Low-fat foods like skimmed milk It is important to maintain a healthy weight for those with hemophilia, which means that they need to eat easily digestible and low-fat food items. Hemophilia patients can opt for skimmed milk over regular milk to ensure that they get the right amount of calcium without the unnecessary fats.
5 foods that boost heart health

5 foods that boost heart health

Studies indicate that heartburn may indirectly trigger heart palpitations, one of the common symptoms that may be a precursor to heart attacks. And there are many triggers of heartburn, ranging from unhealthy eating to lifestyle choices that could lead to potential problems down the line. However, simple substitutes and changes in daily foods can help both promote heart health and provide frequent heartburn remedies at the same time. Here is a brief overview. Green veggies Spinach, kale, collard greens, and other nutrient-rich green vegetables promote excellent heart health. These greens contain vitamin K, which helps protect arteries and are rich in dietary nitrates that lower the risk of blood pressure to improve overall cardiovascular function. Whole grains Brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, barley, and oats are popular whole grains that help promote heart health. Whole grains help improve digestion, lower cholesterol, and improve  systolic blood pressure levels, lowering the risk of coronary artery disease. Oatmeal also helps reduce the recurrence of heartburn as soluble fibers absorb a lot of the acidic content in the stomach. Banana Banana is rich in potassium and low in sodium, helping the body maintain healthy heart function and optimum blood pressure levels. Also, the alkaline content and soluble fibers, including pectin, promote better digestion.
5 foods that can help lower the risk of cancer

5 foods that can help lower the risk of cancer

The advancement in health technology has made it possible to manage cancer effectively and even cure it in some instances. But, proper nutrition is vital for patients. Certain food options not only supplement the treatment process but also help lower the risk of developing the disease by rejuvenating healthy cells. This article lists five such cancer-fighting foods. It is advisable to consult a doctor before adding any of these to the daily meals. Bananas Bananas are a rich source of potassium. They also help replenish electrolytes lost due to diarrhea and vomiting (side effects of cancer treatment). In addition, bananas are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that can reduce the risk of degenerative illnesses like cancer. Pomegranates Pomegranates contain high amounts of vitamin C, fiber, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain antioxidants like flavonoids and anthocyanins that can reduce oxidative stress and improve immune function, which are essential for reducing cancer risk. Garlic Besides making food flavorful, garlic is known for its anti-cancer properties. It is loaded with nutrients like vitamin B6, vitamin C, and selenium that help fight cancer cells. Further, S-allyl cysteine (SAC), an organosulfur in garlic, can induce apoptosis (cell suicide) in cancerous cells, preventing them from spreading.
Simple tips to help manage ADHD

Simple tips to help manage ADHD

A while back, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was dubbed hyperkinetic disorder since it was believed to be related only to hyperactivity and weak impulse control. But, today, it is known that symptoms can range from inability to concentrate, impulsiveness, low frustration tolerance, and disorganization, among others. To manage ADHD, it is imperative to build healthy habits to strengthen focus and accomplish goals. Here are some easy tips that can help deal with the condition. Tips to efficiently manage ADHD Educate yourself It is imperative to first understand the condition and its impact on a person’s life. It’s best to research authentic sources and talk to healthcare professionals. Learning how the brain operates, what symptoms one could have, and accepting them is the first step to managing ADHD. Eat and sleep right Peaceful, recuperative sleep is a great way to regulate moods and maintain focus throughout the day. Research has repeatedly shown that creating a bedtime routine helps greatly. Turn off all electronics for at least an hour before lying down. This makes it easier to fall asleep. Aside from this, eating foods rich in protein increases dopamine. Certain whole grains, fruits, and vegetables will positively impact the brain’s ability to concentrate, plan and organize.
4 myths about sunglasses that could damage your vision

4 myths about sunglasses that could damage your vision

Sunglasses have long been considered a styling essential or an accessory to dial-up one’s look. However, they are more than a fashionable piece. They have a greater purpose of protecting the eyes. Just like sunblock is essential for the skin, sunglasses are important for the eyes and eyesight. They provide protection from UV rays. But before you head out to buy this essential piece of accessory, it is important to bust some myths. Expensive is effective Contrary to what the price tag is often associated with, it is not the factor fit to determine the effectiveness of sunglasses. If you are looking for a pair of sunglasses that does their job well, you need to ensure that they provide UV protection. Check the label to be sure. The price tag does not necessarily have to be higher for the lenses to their required job. Darker glasses equals better protection The number of UV rays being filtered out or passing through the sunglasses is an important factor when looking for eye protection. However, the darkness of the shade of the glasses is not what protects the eyes from UV rays. Sunglasses that are labeled UV safe are either treated with protectants or made of a certain type of plastic polymer.