Cancer: Foods to eat and avoid
Diet Plans

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: 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.
Essential foods that can help fight asthma
health

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. Individuals can also opt for vitamin D supplements or try vitamin-D-fortified foods. Fruits and vegetables If you’re looking to tackle the signs and symptoms of asthma, you can do so with the help of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are nutritious and contain tons of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Fruits are also a good source of the antioxidant beta carotene. Beta carotene is a red-orange pigment found in some plants and fruits. It protects the body from free radicals that can lead to several chronic conditions. It helps prevent cancer and even reduces the risk of heart disease.
Foods to eat to manage hemophilia
health

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. That said, the type of fat found in nuts and seeds can help boost one’s immune system. They also help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It is essential to talk to a certified dietician before making any changes in one’s food regimen.  Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables Eating whole grains like oats, brown rice, whole wheat, and bran helps reduce cholesterol and maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Whole grains are rich in fiber and increase one’s satiety level. Fruits and vegetables, like whole grains, are rich in fiber. They are excellent for the gut and improve digestive health.
Hemophilia – Symptoms to look out for
health

Hemophilia – Symptoms to look out for

Hemophilia is a disorder where one may bleed longer than usual after getting injured. The rare condition occurs because the blood does not clot the way it should due to a lack of sufficient blood-clotting proteins. Though minor cuts are not a major concern, severe injuries may cause bleeding inside the body and turn life-threatening. Despite the available treatments, it’s best to look for signs or symptoms of hemophilia at the earliest. Signs of external bleeding Hemophilia can occur on the surface of the body where the affected individual tends to lose more blood than usual and from unexpected places. A few signs of this bleeding include: People with hemophilia may bleed in the mouth from a cut or bite or if they lose or accidentally cut a tooth. Excessive bleeding from a tiny cut. Bleeding from a cut that has stopped bleeding for a short time. Signs of internal bleeding Internal bleeding is a dangerous symptom of hemophilia and must not be taken lightly. A few symptoms of internal bleeding include: Blood in the stools due to bleeding in the stomach or the intestines. Blood in the urine as a result of bleeding in the kidneys or bladder.  Large bruises from excessive bleeding into the large muscles of the body.  Internal bleeding in the joints People who have hemophilia may be subject to bleeding in the joints like the elbows, knees, and more. Such bleeding may occur without an obvious injury and begins with tightness, with no real pain or visible signs of a bleed. However, the bleeding causes swelling, makes it painful to bend, and makes the region hot to touch. Such pain left untreated may damage the joint. Internal bleeding in the brain Internal bleeding in the brain is a severe complication of hemophilia and may result after a simple bump or a serious injury on the head.
Top 5 foods for better lung health
Diets & Meal Plans

Top 5 foods for better lung health

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.
5 foods that boost heart health
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. Bananas additionally coat the esophageal lining and neutralize stomach acid to reduce the risk of heartburn significantly. Avocados Avocados are one of the best superfoods to boost health. Rich in monosaturated fats, avocados help lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Beverages Beverages like green tea are known to boost heart health. It is rich in antioxidants, improves fat burning to manage cholesterol, and improves insulin sensitivity to promote overall cardiovascular health. In addition, Ginger tea is a potent beverage rich in alkaline and anti-inflammatory properties that helps ease the irritation triggered by stomach acid and prevent heartburn.
Normal and not-so-normal causes of excessive sweating
health

Normal and not-so-normal causes of excessive sweating

Sweating is a completely normal phenomenon. You may sweat excessively when you are exercising, when it’s too hot outside, or when you are frightened or nervous. It’s the body’s reaction to cooling itself down. But some people drip with sweat even when they are not exercising or feeling hot. In such cases, sweating may be caused because of an underlying condition. Take a look at normal and underlying health reasons the body sweats excessively. Normal reasons the body sweats Perimenopause Perimenopause is the period when a woman stops having a menstrual cycle and is about to enter menopause. During this time, the body sweats excessively because of irregular hormone levels. There is also a shift in estrogen levels, causing the body temperature to rise, resulting in hot flashes. The exact reason for this is not known. Foods Consumption of certain types of food can trigger excessive sweating. Such instances of sweating are known as gustatory sweating. Spicy foods, caffeinated drinks such as soda, tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages can cause excessive sweating. Emotions Certain emotions like anger, fear, embarrassment, and anxiety can make people sweat excessively, which is normal. Sweating stops once you get your emotions under control. Complicated conditions causing excessive sweating Primary focal hyperhidrosis Primary focal hyperhidrosis causes excessive sweating in people even when they are not doing any physical activity. Typically one or two parts of the body will sweat excessively, like the hands, underarms, feet, or groin. Hyperhidrosis can make the skin soft, white, flaky, and prone to skin infections like jock itch. Hyperthyroidism The body produces a type of hormone called thyroxine that helps regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. Hyperthyroidism occurs when too much thyroxine is produced that disrupts normal hormone levels. A few symptoms of this condition are excessive sweating, heart palpitations, and sudden weight loss.
5 foods that can help lower the risk of cancer
health

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. Grapes Grapes contain an antioxidant called resveratrol that can reduce the risk of cancer. However, note that black and purple grapes have more cancer-fighting resveratrol than green varieties. Onions Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant that helps fight cancer by lowering inflammation in the body. At a cellular level, quercetin can induce cell apoptosis of cancer cells in high concentrations. While the above foods may help lower cancer risk, it is also essential to be aware of treatment options to manage the condition effectively. Xofigo® (radium Ra 223 dichloride) is one option. It is a radium 223 injection for treating prostate cancer that has spread to the bone.