5 foods to avoid on a cruise
health

5 foods to avoid on a cruise

For most holiday travelers, going on a cruise is a great way to unwind from life’s daily hustle and bustle. Once aboard, they can simply take a nap whenever they feel like it, enjoy sunrise and sunset without worrying about deadlines, or spend hours playing cards with their friends. But, amidst all the fun, travelers must be careful about what they eat on a cruise. Here are five foods to avoid when on a cruise: Scrambled eggs Scrambled eggs (especially when it is made and served on a cruise) often contain harmful bacteria such as listeria and salmonella that can give anybody a bad tummy for days, or might lead to other diseases. This makes scrambled eggs one of the top five foods to avoid when on a cruise. To avoid stomach sickness, travelers can instead opt for fresh or hard-boiled eggs instead of scrambled eggs. Old pizza Unfortunately, most pizzas served on cruises may come with a congealed-cheese look, indicating that they have been kept in the open for a while. Such pizzas are old and, most possibly, stale, making them unfit for a meal. In fact, any dishes containing old cheese, if served aboard, automatically classify into the top five foods to avoid when on a cruise. Sushi Sushi and seafood need to be devoured hot, fresh, and only when they are cooked properly. Unfortunately, travelers will not have the means to check whether the sushi they are served on a cruise is freshly cooked or just heated in an oven. Also, sushi, like pizza, is highly craved by the masses. This reduces the incentive for the catering team aboard a cruise to put in the effort to make exquisite sushi on order. Therefore, avoiding it altogether is the right option. Soft-serve ice cream cones Soft-serve ice cream machines are handled by possibly several pairs of hands throughout the journey.
Thyroid cancer – Causes and silent warning signs
health

Thyroid cancer – Causes and silent warning signs

In the country, around 1% of all new cancer diagnoses yearly are that of the thyroid. This butterfly-shaped gland near the base of one’s neck regulates hormones, blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and body temperature. Any abnormal cell growth in this gland leads to cancer. While such a condition can strike at any age, those more vulnerable are between 25 and 65. Herein, we discuss the subtle warning signs of thyroid cancer and its causes. Silent warning signs of thyroid cancer Thyroid cancer does not exhibit any symptoms or indicators in its early stages. More often than not, it is found during a routine neck exam or during a scan used to identify other conditions. But if left untreated, it may form a lump that develops as a tumor. Below are some of the silent warning signs of thyroid cancer that should prompt one to seek medical help: Neck pain that begins at the front and seems to extend to the ears An unusual lump or nodule that one can feel through the skin of one’s neck A sudden change in one’s voice, including hoarseness Trouble breathing normally; one may feel like one’s breathing through a straw Inability to swallow with ease due to a nodule growing on the thyroid gland A feeling that tight-fitting shirt collars are becoming increasingly restrictive A persistent cough not caused due to cold Inexplicable throat pain Swollen lymph nodes Causes of thyroid cancer According to the American Cancer Society, the risk of thyroid cancer in women is three times higher than in men. Thyroid cancer does not have any certified causes. But iodine deficiency and exposure to radiation from power plant accidents or specific medical therapies increase the risk of developing it. People with a family history of thyroid cancer should also get tested if any signs of discomfort persist.
3 foods that help manage thyroid cancer
health

3 foods that help manage thyroid cancer

Cancer is a term used to describe diseases where there is a rapid multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. Thyroid cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the thyroid gland. The exact cause of thyroid cancer is unknown. But, there are various treatments that can help prevent the spread of this disease to other organs and manage the condition’s symptoms. Here are three foods that are safe to eat when undergoing thyroid cancer treatment. Fruits Fruits are an essential part of our meals. They are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and a whole lot more. They provide us with fibers and natural sugars and make for a perfect snack. Many do not know that these foods are also recommended for those undergoing thyroid cancer treatment. This is because essential nutrients such as vitamin C and lycopene support the treatments. They enhance the biochemical pathways through which chemotherapy works. Not to mention, many of them are also filled with pectins that help detoxify the body from harmful chemicals such as mercury that are linked to thyroid troubles. Those who have thyroid problems can try adding food such as apples, pears, oranges, and more to their daily meals. Nuts and legumes Beans, nuts, seeds, and even legumes are also recommended for those who are undergoing thyroid cancer treatment. These foods contain many active ingredients that aid the treatments undertaken to fight cancer. Aside from this, nuts and seeds are also rich sources of zinc. Studies have found links between low levels of zinc and poor thyroid health. So, adding foods such as pumpkin seeds and brazil nuts can help you get the essential nutrition. Beans and legumes also have high levels of protein and fiber, which help boost digestive health. Yogurt Dairy products such as yogurt, ice creams, and milk are rich sources of iodine, making them one of the best foods for thyroid gland health.
4 foods that can trigger eosinophilic esophagitis
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4 foods that can trigger eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune system condition. Here, the body’s immune system starts producing a large number of eosinophils—a type of white blood cell. These cells begin to grow in the lining of the esophagus, which connects the mouth to the stomach. Over time, the buildup can lead to inflammation, allergies, and acid reflux, among other symptoms. Here is a look at certain foods that can trigger this condition : Wheat products Studies have found a strong correlation between eosinophilic esophagitis and food allergies. This is why doctors recommend that one should avoid foods that are likely to cause allergic reactions. Wheat is a common food allergen, which induces a reaction as the body produces antibodies to certain proteins found in wheat. Some people may be allergic to a specific protein called gluten. Milk Milk and milk products are other common food allergens that should be avoided by those with eosinophilic esophagitis. Here, the immune system identifies some of the milk proteins as harmful, leading to inflammation and flare-ups. With eosinophilic esophagitis, the body starts to produce more eosinophils over time which leads to a buildup in the lining of the esophagus. This is why it is best to avoid dairy products such as milk, cheese, buttermilk, ice cream, ghee, margarine, sour cream, mayonnaise, and condensed milk. Eggs Eggs are potent food allergens. The body produces even more eosinophils if exposed to certain proteins found in eggs. This is why it is best to avoid foods like eggs, including the yolk and whites. One should also avoid egg-based foods like egg noodles, egg nog, egg substitutes, batters, and waffles, among others. One can instead opt for egg substitutes or egg-free alternatives. Nuts Nuts are also a common food allergen and should be avoided when dealing with eosinophilic esophagitis. Individuals with this condition should avoid all tree nuts, including walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, and Brazil nuts.
3 top foods to manage eosinophilic esophagitis
health

3 top foods to manage eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune disease characterized by the rapid growth of eosinophils in a person’s esophagus. There are multiple factors that trigger this condition. One such factor is the body’s allergic reaction to certain foods, such as milk, eggs, wheat, shellfish, and others. These foods are major sources of nutrients. Therefore, their substitutes must be good sources of proteins, vitamins, and other nutrients. Some top foods for those with eosinophilic esophagitis are: Coconut milk The protein found in cow’s milk is one of the prime triggers of EoE. Therefore, healthcare professionals suggest that people with EoE can have coconut milk, which is nearly identical to cow’s milk in terms of nutritive value and does not contain the proteins and elements that cause inflammation in the esophagus of individuals. In fact, since all dairy products trigger EoE in patients, it is advisable for them to instead have coconut-based dishes such as coconut smoothies, coconut ice cream, coconut yogurt, and similar other foods. The absence of dairy in a person’s daily meals helps them to avoid allergic reactions that aggravate the chronic condition.  As a result, coconut milk is one of the top foods for eosinophilic esophagitis patients. Gluten-free oats Gluten, found in standard oats, is one of the other major triggers of EoE. Like dairy products, gluten-filled foods also have heavy reserves of EoE-inflammatory proteins. To avoid allergic reactions, people can consume gluten-free oats. In fact, most wheat foods are bad for people with EoE. Therefore, foods such as bran, bulger, flour, semolina, einkorn, emmer, farro, farina, spelt, malt, glucose syrup, caramel color, hydrolyzed or textured vegetable protein, and kamut can be replaced with amaranth, barley beans, corn, potatoes, quinoa, rice, rye, tapioca, buckwheat, legumes, and similar other gluten-free foods. Pumpkins Peanuts and tree nuts are also triggers of EoE in individuals.
Understanding multiple myeloma, its early signs, and symptoms
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Understanding multiple myeloma, its early signs, and symptoms

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of cancer that develops in the body’s plasma cells. While healthy plasma is meant to help our bodies fight infections and diseases, cancerous plasma produces abnormal proteins that cause complications. Though there is no known cure for multiple myeloma, prolonged remission is possible. Read further to learn about the common symptoms experienced by multiple myeloma patients and the causes and treatment options for this condition. Symptoms There are various signs and symptoms of multiple myeloma. The earliest sign people often notice is bone pain. Some other health conditions often linked to multiple myeloma include bacterial infections such as pneumonia, thrombocytopenia, bone fractures, kidney complications, amyloidosis, hyperviscosity syndrome, and cryoglobulinemia. Weakness or numbness People with multiple myeloma often face weakness or a feeling of numbness in their hands and legs. Myeloma can also affect the bones in the spine, causing them to collapse and press on the spinal cord. Hypercalcemia Signs of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and feeling thirstier than usual. People with myeloma may experience one or more of these symptoms. Unexplained loss of body mass and fatigue Due to a lack of appetite and loss of immunity, MM patients may experience unexplained loss in body mass. In addition, tiredness, another symptom, can affect people’s daily functioning and is also an indicator of anemia. Easy bruising and bleeding Abnormal plasma cells may prevent the body from producing enough platelets necessary for blood clotting and can lead to frequent and easy bruising and bleeding. Loss of immunity Since myeloma affects the white blood cells, which are crucial for protecting the body against germs and infections, immunity is compromised. In addition, it can lead to frequent and more severe infections. Causes Potential causes of multiple myeloma include genetic mutations, environmental factors such as exposure to radiation or chemicals, and inflammatory diseases or conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis.
5 early signs of breast cancer to look out for
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5 early signs of breast cancer to look out for

Breast cancers are generally associated with lumps. However, the symptoms may differ from one person to another according to their specific type of cancer. Although, there are many cases where the patients haven’t reported any lumps. So, this article will explore the various symptoms associated with breast cancer. And it’s always recommended that one visits a doctor immediately if they notice any of the following signs. This will ensure the early detection of cancer. Early symptoms/signs of breast cancer Usually, a monthly breast exam may reveal specific symptoms such as lumps. But there are other signs to look out for as well, which include: Swelling near underarms or the collarbone A swelling near the collarbone or underarms signifies the spreading of cancer to the lymph nodes in that area. Usually, the swelling may appear even before the lump. Hence, a person should not ignore any discomfort and seek medical advice. Pain and tenderness In most cases, lumps in the breast do not hurt. But they might be uncomfortable and might cause a prickly feeling. This hard mass may have irregular edges and is a sure sign of cancer. But sometimes, it can also be soft, tender, round, and even painful. A flat or indented area on the breast This could be the result of an undetected tumor in the breast. In most cases, they cannot be felt or seen by the patient, but they can be recognized by a change in the size and shape of the breast during a breast self-exam. Changes in the nipple Nipple discharge is also a tell-tale sign of breast cancer. Hence it’s essential to look out for certain changes in the nipple. This includes flaky skin or redness in the nipple area/breast, pulling in of the nipple, and pain in any area of the breast.
7 simple exercises for a healthy and happy life
health

7 simple exercises for a healthy and happy life

A healthy meal plan and a systematic exercise regime complement each another in facilitating a healthy lifestyle. Exercise is essential not only for physical fitness but also mental and emotional well-being. Working out releases endorphins, or “feel-good hormones,” which are connected to the brain’s reward centers. However, maintaining a fixed exercise routine has become extremely difficult for most individuals. So, here are some simple exercises to do every day at home amid your busy schedule: Push-ups Push-ups are the go-to exercise for achieving core strength, burning calories, enhancing flexibility, and improving upper-body strength. They don’t require too much space and can be practiced in the comfort of your living room. Crunches Crunches should be a part of your workout regime if your want to strengthen your abdominal muscles. They are popular among individuals trying to develop abs; however, they also serve several other functions, such as improving core strength and correcting posture. Squats If you get past the initial muscle discomfort, your body will thank you for doing those squats regularly. Squats are highly beneficial for strengthening various body parts, including hip muscles, obliques, calves, hamstrings, and glutes. Studies suggest that three sets of ten to 12 reps each of any type of squats can considerably help with overall body strength, mobility, and balance. Skipping Skipping is a popular and beneficial cardio activity that improves heart health, mental health, coordination, and focus and contributes to burning calories. Beginners can skip for five minutes a day for the first few days before gradually increasing the count. Jumping jacks Jumping jacks are a fun way to burn calories while jumping in tune with some upbeat music. The simple exercise entails many benefits, including improved mobility, leg strength, hip strength, coordination, and flexibility. Planks If you have been dejected by planks and the enormous control they require, think again.