5 snacks that can help lower cholesterol levels People who struggle with high cholesterol levels tend to begin thinking more about everything they eat. Whether it’s a bowl of fruit or a delicious hamburger, they are left wondering how their choices will impact their numbers. While it is tempting to skip snacking altogether, a healthy snack can go a long way in maintaining metabolism as well as blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Changing the kinds of foods one eats can not only lower cholesterol levels but also improve fat levels through the bloodstream. Here are some great snacks that are extremely helpful in fighting cholesterol. Popcorn Popcorn can be low in calories when one eats a smart serving size and avoids the salt and butter. What’s more, it’s a whole grain full of fiber. Popcorn can be easily made at home by air popping it and adding some olive oil and a little bit of parmesan cheese or a few seasonings for some extra flavor. Using olive oil instead of butter helps lower the bad LDL cholesterol and increase the good HDL cholesterol. Nuts Peanuts, walnuts, almonds, etc. are great for the heart and are powerhouses of energy. Some studies have even demonstrated that nuts slightly lower the levels of bad LDL cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, one should eat ¼ th of a cup of nuts every day for a healthy heart. Vegetables Vegetables are a great source of essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals, all of which go a long way in helping lower LDL cholesterol. While they might not be the first snack that one voluntarily reaches out for, vegetables are required by the body. Vegetable snacking is easier when you buy pre-cut vegetables or prep some vegetables for a weekly ration. Snacking is made easier when you can simply grab a handful of carrots or bell peppers and dip them in some delicious hummus.

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.

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.

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy rashes, blisters, skin irritation, and even results in leathery skin patches over time. While this condition is more common in kids aged less than two years, it can also affect older children and adults. Many people who suffer from eczema also tend to develop food allergies. So, it is important to discover one’s personal food needs for minimizing issues with eczema and the resulting allergies. Some of the common food allergies associated with eczema include: Shellfish Fish Nuts Gluten Soy products Eggs Cow’s milk However, not everyone may have the same flare ups or reactions to the same foods. Listed below are foods that contain properties that could help in decreasing eczema flare-ups, so that one can get to know their body and what foods works best for them. Foods to eat Fatty fish: One might be able to reduce their symptoms of eczema by eating fatty fish such as herring, mackerel, trout, and salmon. These fish include high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which leads to it having anti–inflammatory properties. One might also consider taking omega-3 supplements. Foods containing quercetin: The plant-based flavonoid quercetin helps give many veggies, fruits, and flowers their vibrant, rich colors. Quercetin also happens to be a powerful antihistamine and antioxidant which helps in reducing inflammation as well as histamine levels in the body. Foods that are rich in quercetin include kale, spinach, broccoli, cherries, blueberries, and apples. Foods containing probiotics: Probiotic food items like yogurt contain live culture that help in supporting a strong immune system, which could help lessen allergic reactions or flare-ups. Foods rich in probiotics include tempeh, kefir, unpasteurized sauerkraut, soft cheeses like Gouda, naturally fermented pickles, miso soup, and sourdough bread. Foods to avoid While what one eats might not directly cause eczema, it can be a trigger for a lot of symptoms.

It has been observed that those who have schizophrenia, a chronic psychological illness, usually have diets that are unhealthy, low in fiber and fruit, and high in saturated fats. Unhealthy eating habits typically lead to other health problems which can also put people with schizophrenia at high risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more. According to research, dietary changes do really help manage schizophrenia. Here are some best and worst foods for schizophrenia. Foods to eat Fruits Many studies show that people with schizophrenia usually do not get enough fiber, and thus, need to eat fruits. Some of the best sources of fiber are apples, pears, and raspberries. Fiber not only helps reduce bad cholesterol but also helps in digestion, thereby reducing the chances of certain health problems associated with schizophrenia such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Vegetables Vegetables don’t have heart-heavy cholesterol, are packed with essential vitamins and fiber, and are low in calories and fat. Veggies like sweet potatoes, kidney beans, and lima beans contain potassium that could help in keeping blood sugar in check. The best food for schizophrenia is spinach as it is high in folate, which could help in easing symptoms of schizophrenia. Apart from spinach, folate can also be found in asparagus and black-eyed peas. Fatty fish Since omega-3 fatty acids cannot be produced by the body, one needs to get them through food such as fatty fish like salmon and mackerel. Omega-3 fatty acids not only ease but also prevent the symptoms of schizophrenia and even slow down the progress of the disease. Vegetarians can intake walnuts and ask their doctor to prescribe omega-3 supplements. Crab and oysters According to research, there could exist a relationship between schizophrenia and low levels of zinc, which can be found in lobsters, crab, and oysters, as well as fortified cereals and beef.

Parkinson’s is a disorder of the central nervous system. It causes dopamine levels in the brain to drop, resulting in tremors, loss of balance, and other symptoms. Aging is the most significant contributing factor to the condition, but few studies show that eating healthy can reduce the risk. Here, we’ve listed some foods that can help prevent and fight Parkinson’s disease, along with a few medication options, including the FDA-approved Rytary. Fava beans Fava beans contain levodopa, a compound found in some medications used to treat Parkinson’s. Many believe that eating fava beans can help alleviate the symptoms; however, there’s little scientific evidence supporting the belief. One study showed that it might improve motor performance in those with the ailment. Fatty fish Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They have also been linked to the prevention of cell degeneration. Moreover, omega-3s can help maintain healthy dopamine levels in the brain, which tend to drop with age. Green tea Green tea is packed with antioxidants and can help both prevent and fight Parkinson’s. It contains compounds that help protect the brain’s neural network and maintain sufficient dopamine levels in ailing brain tissue. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory properties and can improve brain function. Fresh veggies Many fresh vegetables contain high levels of folic acid, a type of B vitamin that can lower the risk of Parkinson’s. Veggies loaded with folic acid include broccoli, spinach, okra, asparagus, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts. B vitamins can also be found in lentils, legumes, and avocados. Berries Nearly all common berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, goji berries, cranberries, or strawberries, are full of antioxidants. These compounds can reduce damage due to free radicals, which have been linked to the progression of Parkinson’s.

Statistics suggest that more than 30 percent of women in our country have issues with bladder control. The problem could arise due to many factors, including age, excess body weight, weak bladder muscles, and overuse of certain medications. Thankfully, patients can manage the symptoms associated with an overactive bladder by following a proper nutrition plan. Below, we’ve listed a few foods that individuals with the condition should eat and avoid. Foods to avoid People with bladder control issues should stay away from the following: Caffeine Caffeine is one of the primary triggers of the condition. Products like coffee, tea, energy drinks, and carbonated drinks have a diuretic effect, promoting urination. Alcohol This is another diuretic that can impact bladder control. Alcohol not only increases the pressure in the detrusor muscles but also affects the body’s natural signals that tell the brain when to empty the bladder. Spicy foods Foods such as peppers, chili powder, horseradish, and other spices can irritate the bladder lining, increasing the urge to urinate. Spicy foods also increase the tendency to drink more water, worsening the symptoms of urinary incontinence. Artificial sweeteners Like spicy foods, artificial sweeteners can also worsen bladder control by making the bladder muscles hyperactive. Frequent urination can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially in women, making urinary incontinence hard to manage. Foods to eat The following options can help with bladder control issues: Lean protein Lean protein found in white-fleshed fish, plain Greek yogurt, beans, peas, lentils, poultry, and powdered peanut butter can help prevent bladder irritation, thereby reducing instances of overactive bladder. Whole grain Grains like oats and quinoa are rich in healthy carbohydrates, which, in turn, facilitate healthy bowel movements that help with bladder control. Potatoes Potatoes are a great comfort food that can also be eaten to avoid overactive bladder.

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: Olive oil Olive oil contains oleocanthal and antioxidants that help in slowing or reducing the risk of cancer. Healthy consumption prevents breast cancer and the cancer of the digestive tract. Using Olive oil also prevents cardiovascular diseases. Garlic Garlic contains an active compound called allicin known to have anti-cancer properties. One study concluded that people who ate allicin vegetables were less susceptible to stomach cancer . Another research suggested that it reduced the risk of prostate cancer. Broccoli Broccoli has potent anticancer properties and contains glucosinolates that produce protective enzymes. These enzymes help in detoxifying harmful chemicals, consequently lowering the risk of breast, prostate, lung, colon, mouth, esophagus, and stomach cancer.