A mycobacterium avium complex infection, commonly known as MAC disease, is a type of rare lung disease that affects 1 person per 100,000 each year. The symptoms of MAC disease normally include fever sweating, fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, shortness of breath, anemia, and abdominal pain. While there are ways to manage MAC disease symptoms, it is important to have these five foods for better lung health and better disease management. Salmon Salmon, mackerel, anchovy, herring, and other fatty fish are rich in omega-3 acids. This nutrient has been long associated with better lung health, among other benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids help fight inflammation due to infections and reduce the risk of such conditions worsening over time. Apricots This food can be particularly helpful in managing lung infection and addressing the symptoms of MAC disease. The abundance of vitamin A in apricots is known to lower the risk of lung infection by repairing the respiratory tract lining. Beef liver, cod liver oil, carrots, black-eyed peas, broccoli, spinach, carrot, and sweet red peppers are other vitamin-A-rich foods one can have for better lung health. Olive oil Olive oil contains vitamin E in the form of the nutrient alpha-tocopherol that is associated with enhancing lung functionality. Other foods rich in alpha-tocopherol include sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, pine nuts, sesame seeds, and pistachios. Not all forms of vitamin E are good for lung health; for instance, soybean and canola oils contain vitamin E in the form of gamma-tocopherol that may worsen lung infections. Berries MAC disease is a type of lung infection that may severely damage pulmonary cells. The presence of free radicals in the body may further hamper cell rejuvenation. Blueberries, strawberries, acai, and grapes are rich sources of antioxidants that kill the free radical cells. So, these foods assist in cell rejuvenation and alleviating infection severity.

A strong gut is among the cornerstones of physical and mental well-being, symbolizing a robust immune system and preventing health scares. While some may be more predisposed than others to a sensitive stomach, some lifestyle changes can benefit all individuals. For example, everyone can follow a meal plan that comprises essential nutrients and is free of harmful elements. Here are five foods to avoid to maintain a healthy gut: Red meat Red meat consists of N-nitroso chemicals, which have been proven to damage the bowel lining. It is also high in saturated fats, contributing to inflammation and increased cholesterol levels. Thus, swapping red meat with lean meat sources like skinless chicken, turkey, and pork chops is advisable. Refined flour Refined flour converts to a glue-like substance in the intestines, considerably slowing digestion. It also has very little nutritional value and does not contribute to boosting gut health. Replacing refined flour with whole-wheat or multigrain flour can instantly make a difference. Individuals with gluten intolerance must choose gluten-free flour like almond flour and cornflour. Sugary foods A meal plan high in sugary foods can absorb your stomach’s good bacteria, which plays a vital role in digestion. A lack of essential bacteria can increase sugar cravings, perpetuating a vicious cycle. Natural sugar sources like fruits and some vegetables can help with overall well-being. Fries and wafers A packet of potato wafers or fries can seem like your best movie companions, but they can be among your gut’s worst enemies. Fries, wafers, and other deep-fried foods contain trans fats and high sodium, causing cholesterol. Moreover, studies have found deep-fried foods can impair the intestine’s barrier function, leading to leaky gut syndrome. Processed foods Processed foods like processed butter and cheese contain trans fat and high sodium levels, leading to poor gut health. It helps to avoid processed foods and replace them with alternatives like cottage cheese, clarified butter, and sharp cheddar cheese.

Menopause is a natural part of aging. It begins with a transitional phase, known as perimenopause, about three to four years before women experience their last menses. This period is marked by specific symptoms, like anxiety, depression, dramatic body temperature changes, mood swings, irritability, and frequent skin itching. While the discomforts are inevitable, women can manage them effectively by adding specific foods to their meals. Here are the top seven foods to manage menopause symptoms: Salmon Any food rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces the frequency of temperature shifts, night sweats, and hot flashes in women during the transitional menopause phase. Mackerel, tuna, and vegetables like flax and chia seeds are all good for managing menopause symptoms. However, salmon stands out as it offers a range of other health benefits besides helping women manage the signs more effectively. Barley Whole grains like barley, amaranth, buckwheat, and broken wheat have large reserves of vitamin B, fiber, and minerals. These elements regulate the body’s metabolism and boost energy levels, helping women remain fatigue-free during perimenopause. So, it is not surprising that these grains make it to the top seven foods to manage menopause symptoms. Walnuts Nuts are rich in magnesium, which reduces anxiety, depression, mood swings, and sleeplessness. Walnuts perfectly fit the bill here as they are incredibly munchy and tasty and also effective in strengthening bones. They contain huge reserves of protein, calcium, zinc, and the all-important omega-3 fats that ease menopause symptoms. Spinach Like other green leafy veggies, spinach is a rich source of calcium that strengthens the bones. It also has plenty of antioxidants that reduce inflammation and wild temperature shifts. Broccoli Broccoli and other green vegetables are a treasure trove of vitamins, fibers, minerals, and antioxidants. Most importantly, these vegetables control estrogen levels in women, thereby relieving the more frenzied menopausal symptoms.

Schizophrenia is one of the most complex mental disorders. Individuals struggling with the condition often experience symptoms like delusional thinking, hallucinations, and social isolation. The condition significantly affects cognitive ability, leading to trouble perceiving emotions or controlling behavior. Patients need multidimensional support, including special care and dedicated treatment. Other remedies, such as eating a healthy meal plan, can help. For example, foods can determine one’s mood, so it’s important to know the most nourishing foods for schizophrenia. Here are a few foods that patients with schizophrenia can include in their meal plans: Lentils Lentils are reasonably priced food items that contain many nutrients, from protein and fiber to essential vitamins and antioxidants. These superfoods help boost the production of a brain chemical called serotonin, which regulates one’s mood and behavior. Apart from that, it also stabilizes one’s sugar levels and keeps one energetic. Broccoli Studies show that this cruciferous vegetable has high levels of antioxidants, sulforaphane, vitamins, folic acid, zinc, and fiber. People with schizophrenia may experience chemical imbalances in their brains, which sulforaphane-rich foods like broccoli can regulate. Whole grains People with schizophrenia struggle to satisfy their hunger and may not feel full even after meals. In addition, the patients may also see a hike in their body fat due to schizophrenia treatments. So, foods rich in fiber, like whole grains, can help one feel full for a long time. These may include wheat, rye, barley, and millet. Avocado This is another food high in fiber that contains healthy monounsaturated fats. This combination can help reduce brain inflammation and keep one feeling full. Berries These sweet fruits, including blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are rich in antioxidants and known to improve one’s cognitive function, reduce brain damage, and maintain a healthy heart. They are low in calories and versatile, making them a perfect snack or ingredient in different dishes.