7 foods that help fight against Bronchitis

7 foods that help fight against Bronchitis

When you have bronchitis, it’s easy to overeat greasy, salty, or sugary foods to relieve the coughing, breathing, and throat pain. Alternatively, you may decide not to consume anything at all. However, you should take care and watch what you eat as refined carbs and saturated fats might impede recovery. Knowing which foods to avoid and which to eat may influence the severity of bronchitis symptoms. Here’s a list of a few items you should avoid. Foods with preservatives and additives Sulfites, a form of preservative, may aggravate bronchitis. Liquor, dried fruits, pickled foods, maraschino cherries, and lime juice all contain sulfites. Processed and quick meals frequently contain chemical additives, flavors, and colorings. Some bronchitis patients may be susceptible to or intolerant to these artificial components. Gas-forming foods Eating large meals or gas-producing foods strains the diaphragm, especially if you suffer from acid reflux. This can cause chest pains and asthma flare-ups. Beans, cabbage, carbonated beverages, onions, and fried dishes are examples of these foods. Sugar and HFCS Do you enjoy drinking sugar-laden colas? Be cautious. They can be dangerous to your health. Avoiding syrups, candies, and other sugary foods will help to relieve symptoms such as coughing, irritation, and discomfort in your lungs. A study released in the Nutrition Journal in October 2015 discovered a link between consuming soft drinks flavored with High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), such as colas, and the incidence of chronic bronchitis in individuals. Read nutrition facts, recognize this ingredient, and eliminate goods sweetened with HFCS, such as bread, cakes, and beverages. Many sweets include HFCS and refined carbs that are deficient in health-promoting elements. If you’re searching for healthier alternatives, fruit can be your best option. Fruits for bronchitis, including berries, oranges, and apples, provide fiber, which slows your body’s absorption of glucose while also being rich in inflammation-fighting minerals.
7 human foods that cats can enjoy

7 human foods that cats can enjoy

Pet owners are extremely protective of their fur babies. They want to ensure that their pets get the best of care and, most importantly, food. Most often, one gets tempted to share the food from the plates with them. But, not all the food we consume is safe for our pet cats. This makes it important to stay informed on the food items that are safe or harmful for cats. Read on to learn more. Whole grain and whole grain foods You can also share whole grain products like brown side, oatmeal, and more with your cat in moderate quantities. Whole grains are nutritionally dense and contain iron, fiber, vitamins, and tons of minerals that can boost your cat’s health. The fiber content can help improve digestive health, while vitamins and minerals can help make their coat healthy and shiny. Cheese Cats across the globe share an intense love for all things dairy. Not only will they enjoy a bowl of fresh milk, but they also love other dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and even butter. When they are born, cats rely on their mother’s milk to survive for the first two to three months. But, as they grow, cats, much like many humans, tend to develop an intolerance for lactose, a protein that is found in milk and milk products. So, if your cat can digest milk and other dairy products without an upset tummy, you could consider giving them small amounts of cheese and even milk. They are rich in calcium and have a high level of protein. Cheese also makes for a great way to provide your pet cat with oral treatments. Poultry Cats are carnivorous animals and enjoy foods such as chicken, beef, and other animal products. As a matter of fact, meat is their natural choice of food for cats.
11 Foods That Can Surprisingly Raise Blood Sugar

11 Foods That Can Surprisingly Raise Blood Sugar

Maintaining steady blood sugar levels is critical for people with diabetes, but it can often be challenging. Patients are required to track what they eat, as certain foods can spike blood sugar, leading to health complications. To reduce the potential blood sugar swings, doctors recommended foods with a low glycemic index and foods high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This post discusses 12 foods that surprisingly spike blood sugar levels and should be avoided. Bananas Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, but specific options like bananas are best avoided. Bananas adversely affect blood sugar levels as they contain simple carbs and have a high glycemic index. To ensure blood glucose readings do not rise drastically, one should consider the ripeness of the fruit before eating. Green or unripe bananas usually have less sugar than yellow or ripe bananas. Oatmeal If one cannot do without oatmeal for breakfast, they should consider varieties that take a while to digest. Instant or processed oats often contain added sugars and are digested quickly, raising blood sugar levels. On the other hand, minimally processed oats metabolize slowly. Rolled or steel-cut oats are suitable for people with diabetes. Grapes Grapes are a great source of antioxidants but can be problematic for those with diabetes. While all fruits contain a natural sugar called fructose, grapes have the highest levels. Unsurprisingly, even a handful of this berry can rapidly raise blood sugar. So, to keep blood glucose stable, it would be wise to ditch grapes and include strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries in the meals. Fruit juices Fresh fruit juices are nutritious and have many health benefits, but those with diabetes should avoid them to keep their blood sugar under control. Fruit juices lack fiber and contain a large amount of fructose. A glass of fruit juice might be refreshing but is digested quickly, resulting in glucose accumulation in the bloodstream.
12 lesser-known symptoms of a migraine

12 lesser-known symptoms of a migraine

Besides throbbing head pain, migraines can cause a range of lesser-known symptoms that can be equally distressing. From elusive prodrome signs like mood changes and food cravings to sensory disturbances like altered taste and auditory sensitivity, these hidden aspects of migraines significantly impact a person’s well-being in the long run. This brief post sheds light on a few lesser-known migraine symptoms, emphasizing their importance in accurate diagnosis and better management. Prodrome symptoms Before the onset of the actual headache, many migraine patients experience a phase known as the prodrome. This phase can trigger various subtle symptoms: Mood changes: Individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, or sudden changes in temperament. Some become unusually excitable or anxious during this phase. Food cravings: Intense cravings for specific foods, especially sweets or carbohydrates, can be a prodromal symptom. These cravings are thought to be related to changes in brain chemistry. Increased thirst and urination: Some notice increased thirst and more frequent urination during the prodrome phase. This can be attributed to shifts in the body’s fluid balance. Neck stiffness: Neck stiffness or discomfort is a less-common prodromal sign but can cause discomfort. Sensory changes Migraines can profoundly affect the senses, leading to a range of unusual experiences: Olfactory hallucinations: Some patients report strange and intense smells that aren’t present in their environment. These olfactory hallucinations can be unsettling and are sometimes referred to as phantosmia. Hypersensitivity to odors: Known as hyperosmia, this can be an uncomfortable and distressing symptom during migraines. Common smells may become overpowering and unpleasant. Auditory sensitivity: While phonophobia (sensitivity to noise) is a recognized migraine symptom, some may experience heightened auditory sensitivity even before the headache starts. This can make everyday sounds feel painfully loud. Altered taste: Dysgeusia, or an altered sense of taste, can occur during a migraine attack.
3 foods to avoid for better lung health

3 foods to avoid for better lung health

Strengthening the lungs can help one avoid respiratory issues and diseases. Even when diagnosed with a lung-related illness, making significant changes to the lifestyle and food regimen can help people manage the symptoms and restore lung function. However, it is equally important to avoid the food items that damage these organs and cause issues like inflammation, sneezing, and wheezing. Here are a few foods to avoid to improve lung health: Salty food Foods with excessive salt should be avoided as their long-term consumption can have severe consequences on the overall health. Excess sodium in such food items can enlarge the muscles of the heart, cause headaches, increase blood pressure, and lead to a wide range of kidney-related issues like stones. Such foods can also have a negative effect on the health of the lungs and have been linked to an increased risk of bronchitis. Additionally, too much salt in meals can also worsen the symptoms of respiratory issues like asthma. This is because sodium can cause fluid retention, leading to shortness of breath in those with lung diseases. To reduce its intake, one should start by limiting salt in their meals and instead add more herbs and spices as seasoning. A lot of sodium is already added to the foods people purchase, so one must check the labels and ingredients for adequate sodium content beforehand. One can also cut back on their salt intake by avoiding processed and packaged foods such as salted nuts, crackers, and chips.  Dairy products For those diagnosed with lung disease, milk or other dairy products can worsen their symptoms. This is because in the digestion of dairy products like milk, cheese, or ice cream, a breakdown product known as casomorphin is released. This component is known to increase mucus and phlegm buildup in the stomach and respiratory tract during flare-ups of asthma or other lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Black Friday 2023 – Top 10 Dog Food Deals to Look Out For

Black Friday 2023 – Top 10 Dog Food Deals to Look Out For

Black Friday is the perfect time for pet parents to stock up on essential supplies for their furry companions, including dog food and treats. During the sale, there are great deals and discounts available on nutritious dog food from top brands. The following article lists some popular dog food deals seen last year, which can give buyers an idea of what one can expect for Black Friday 2023.  It also mentions a few dog food products that, if they receive deals this year, are definitely worth considering. Deals on wet food for dogs Wet dog food is often sold in cans or pouches and is essential for dogs’ nutritional requirements. It has a higher moisture content, which helps keep dogs hydrated, and its soft texture makes it an excellent option for picky eaters or those dogs with dental issues. It is also available in a variety of flavors and formulations. Here are some popular wet dog food options that are expected to go on sale this Black Friday. 1. Wellness’ Lamb and Beef Stew Last Black Friday, a case of 12 cans (12.5 oz) of Wellness’ Lamb and Beef Stew with Brown Rice and Apples was available at $4 to $5 off at Chewy, Amazon, and Petflow. Dog parents can keep an eye out for a similar deal this sale season.  2. Iams ProActive Health Wet Food Iams ProActive Health’s Chunks in Gravy (with Beef, Rice, Carrots, and Green Beans) Adult Wet Dog Food is a popular choice for adult dogs. Currently, it is available for around $29 at Chewy. If it goes on sale this year, it can be worth considering. Deals on dry food for dogs Dry dog food, known as kibble, is convenient and cost-effective for dog parents. It is available in different formulas for dogs from different life stages and nutritional requirements.
Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms

Eczema – 3 methods to manage its symptoms

Eczema has many different stages and types. Unfortunately, about 10.1 percent of people in the country have some or the other form of this condition. Such a disease is a combination of conditions that make the skin irritated or inflamed. With proper treatment, one can manage symptoms. Red, dry, cracked, and leathery skin are the common eczema signs. Here are three useful methods that help deal with eczema and manage its symptoms: Getting the right treatment options Here are some treatments associated with eczema. Dupixent Dupixent is prescribed for children six or older and adults; for those who cannot control symptoms with other treatment measures, alternate treatments are not recommended. This monoclonal antibody works on a targeted area in the immune system. Dupixent comes in pre-filled single-dose pens and syringes, given as a subcutaneous injection. One can find this treatment option in two strengths: 300-mg/2-mL and 200 mg/1.14-mL solutions. Cibinqo This once-daily oral treatment helps manage symptoms for adults who have not seen relief with prevailing treatment options. Cibinqo is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Doses that can be taken are either 100 or 200 mg. Alternately, a 50 mg dosage is for patients with moderate renal impairment. Upadacitinib and Eucrisa Upadacitinib is a JAK1 inhibitor and helps adolescents and adults with severe or moderate eczema. However, this FDA-approved treatment can cause side effects like fever, cough, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infections. Typically, one starts with 15 mg, but the doctor may advise a 30 mg dose if that does not work. Eucrisa is also a treatment option for eczema. It is for skin-only treatment, so do not get it in contact with sensitive areas and rinse with water in case of contact. Foods to eat and avoid Eczema needs to be managed with a disciplined nutritional regime. These foods are a must in every meal plan for this skin condition:
Atopic dermatitis – 4 ways to manage the condition

Atopic dermatitis – 4 ways to manage the condition

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic skin disorder identified by itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. This condition begins in childhood and sometimes lingers through adulthood. Unfortunately, there is no clarity on the cause of atopic dermatitis. During a flare-up, the symptoms and inflammation can get worse when scratched. Despite no definitive cure, some treatment options can manage the symptoms. Let us look at the treatment methods, meal plans, and natural remedies to ease the condition: Treatment options DUPIXENT ® It is a prescription treatment that can help treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis signs. You can use it alone or with other treatment measures. It is an interleukin inhibitor. You can find the  DUPIXENT ® injection as a preservation-free, sterile, slightly opalescent to clear, yellow or colorless solution. But, this treatment option can result in severe side effects like pink eye, injection site reactions, new-onset or worsening eye symptoms, cold, and headache. This treatment option should be administered under professional care and supervision. In addition, consult the doctor for the recommended dosage. Upadacitinib and Eucrisa It is an oral Janus kinase (JAK)1-selective inhibitor that helps with severe atopic dermatitis, especially in patients who did not respond to other treatment measures. Upadacitinib is an FDA-approved treatment indicated for use in those who are twelve years and older. Eucrisa curtails a substance that triggers atopic dermatitis symptoms. It is an ointment that offers relief in mild to moderate eczema. It is safe for use in adults and children three months and older. CIBINQO™ This is an oral treatment option prescribed for adults with moderate to server AD symptoms. CIBINQO™ blocks the JAK 1 protein, which reduces skin inflammation. The dosage depends on the severity of the condition and the physician’s recommendation. It can also result in side effects like headache, nausea, cold, cold sores, UTI, and throat pain.
Leukemia – 3 ways to manage the condition

Leukemia – 3 ways to manage the condition

Leukemia, or blood cancer, originates in the bone marrow. It is a condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth of white blood cells. It differs from other types of cancer that are marked by the presence of a tumor. There are four types of the condition – acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, and chronic myelogenous leukemia. The condition is incurable, but following these tips can help manage the disease better:   Getting Treated The patient must be put on the right treatment immediately after diagnosing the condition. TASIGNA® (nilotinib) and BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) are two prescribed treatments for leukemia.    TASIGNA ® (nilotinib) This is advised for newly diagnosed adults with Philadelphia chromosome Chronic Myeloid Leukemia or Ph+ CML-CP. It is also recommended for adults who cannot tolerate or are not benefiting from other treatments. Children above 1 year who are newly diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia or those who are not benefiting from other therapies are also advised to try this treatment. It was approved in 2007 and has helped treat about 28,000 people in the US with the condition Ph+ CML-CP.   BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) This is advised for adults and kids with B-cell precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. It is also advised for patients in remission with detectable cancer cells or MRD.   Foods that patients should consume and avoid It is vital to eat right when detected with leukemia. This will help the body stay strong and tolerate the treatment better. With well-balanced nutrition, the body can replace the cells and tissues affected by the treatment and its side effects. At the same time, certain food types can harm the treatment procedures and prevent the body from recuperating well. Hence, such foods should be avoided.    Here’s a list of foods to eat and avoid.   Foods to eat Include :
Try these 8 natural remedies for nasal polyps

Try these 8 natural remedies for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are soft, usually painless lumps that grow in the sinuses or nose as a result of specific allergies, infection, or inflammation. More often than not, the polyps do not result in severe symptoms. However, people with nasal polyps may experience sneezing, itching, difficulty in breathing, and runny nose, among other symptoms. While doctors can prescribe sprays for nasal polyps relief, the following natural remedies can also help relieve the symptoms.  Cayenne pepper This hot and spicy food item contains capsaicin—a compound that is known for its ability to clear sinuses. Several studies have shown that this compound can help ease inflammation, open up nasal passages, and improve immunity. Consequently, one can reduce several nasal polyp symptoms by adding cayenne pepper to their food. Adding 1–2 teaspoons to the recipes should help with symptom relief. Alternatively, having a hot cayenne tea can also serve the purpose. Peppermint The key ingredient that makes peppermint one of the best natural remedies for nasal polyps is menthol. A study conducted in 2015 indicated that menthol possesses decongestant properties that not only help in clearing nasal passages but also treat common cold-like symptoms. Neti pot Using a neti pot is a form of nasal irrigation that can help reduce nasal polyp symptoms. It entails using a small pot filled with a warm salt water solution. The water is first sterilized or distilled, and then salt is added to make a solution. This solution is run through the sinuses and nasal passages to help dampen the mucus membranes. The process protects the mucus membranes from the invasion of irritants and allergens. Steam inhalation Steam can also help in easing nasal polyp symptoms. Several studies have demonstrated that steam inhalation along with nasal irrigation can help relieve symptoms like sinus inflammation-induced headaches. One can inhale the steam in several ways, like steam rooms, humidifiers, baths, and hot showers.
7 delicious and nutritional snacks for kids

7 delicious and nutritional snacks for kids

Feeling frequent bouts of hunger is not unusual for kids. In fact, it’s quite normal for children in their developing years to feel hungry frequently. However, extreme hunger can lead children to reach out for processed foods, most of which are filled with artificial ingredients, added sugars, and refined flour. These foods have empty calories and no nutritional value. Here are some nutrition-rich kid snacks you can make for your kid without any hassles: Celery with peanut butter and raisins Also known as “ants on a log,” celery with raisins and peanut butter can prove to be a fun way to make your child have a vegetable. Chop a twig of celery into three or four pieces. Take some peanut butter and spread it evenly inside the hollow part of the celery. After that, put some raisins on the peanut butter. The three foods combined in this recipe can offer an excellent balance of nutrients like protein, fat, and carbs. However, ensure that the peanut butter you use is not loaded with added sugars or vegetable oils. Nuts Nuts are notable for their high-fiber content, along with healthy fats and antioxidants. To support your child’s growth, it is essential to provide them with sufficient dietary fats. Earlier, health professionals used to withhold the prescription of nuts to prevent allergic reactions. However, they have now studied that introducing nuts at an early age has many benefits. Nevertheless, make sure that your child develops a habit of chewing properly before offering them nuts as a snack, as it is a choking hazard. Oatmeal Oatmeal is popularly considered a healthy breakfast. However, very few know it can also serve as an excellent snack. With a high-soluble fiber content, oats make great food for the digestive tract, as they increase the number of good bacteria and deliver other health benefits.
9 things to consider before buying a ram truck

9 things to consider before buying a ram truck

When heavy loads must be carried across long distances, there’s no vehicle better than a pickup truck for this task. With a tremendous load-bearing capacity, plush interiors, and an elegant look, RAM trucks are the ideal choices to carry such heavyweight goods on off-terrain roads. However, buying a RAM truck is a major investment for companies, and since there are various models and trims available, one should consider certain key aspects. 1. Understand the required load-bearing capacity RAM trucks are available in various sizes and trims, each with a different load-bearing capacity. If one buys a RAM truck with a load-bearing capacity that is lower than one requires, it may get overloaded, which can eventually cause problems with momentum and the tires. In contrast, if one invests in a RAM truck with a higher load-bearing capacity than what’s required, one might spend much more than necessary. So, it’s best to estimate the required load-bearing capacity beforehand so that one’s requirements are met and there is no financial crunch. 2. Determine luxury requirements The best RAM trucks available today perfectly integrate  esthetics  with functionality. However, not everyone buying a RAM truck may require cutting-edge technology or premium luxury features.  In such cases, one can save a considerable amount by opting for an older model or trim that has a good load-bearing capacity but may  not  have  all  the luxury features.  On the other hand, some buyers may want their RAM trucks to have the latest tech and luxury features or require certain features for comfort and body posture. In such cases, it’s a good idea to go for a trim that includes all aspects, such as heated front and rear seats, integration with Apple CarPlay, and rugged  esthetics . For example, the RAM Limited trim has all such premium amenities, whereas the older RAM 1500 Tradesman® ensures comfort for buyers and passengers.