Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell, wherein plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and overcrowd the red blood cells. These cancerous cells give birth to abnormal proteins that can cause further complications. When one is suffering from multiple myeloma, one’s body might or might not give any indications. Here we will discuss signs and lifestyle changes to help manage multiple myeloma. Signs of multiple myeloma Here are some signs of multiple myeloma one should look out for: Fatigue A person with multiple myeloma may feel highly fatigued after a good amount of rest. This fatigue may make it difficult to carry out daily tasks. Fatigue may cause other issues like difficulty concentrating and impaired memory.  Bone pain Multiple myeloma may lead to bone pain. The ribs, back, or hips are frequently the sites of dull bone pain. Movement usually makes it worse, and it persists. Moreover, this might weaken the bones and cause fractures. This disorder is more prone to impact the bones in the arms, legs, and spine. When the spinal cord is harmed, the legs and feet may become numb and weak, resulting in uncontrollable bowel and bladder movements and sensations of pins and needles throughout the body. Unusual bleeding and bruising Typical symptoms of multiple myeloma include heavy periods, frequent nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. Since the platelets in the body, which help blood clot, are constantly being attacked by cancer cells, bleeding occurs often. A person may also experience frequent bruising. Frequent infections A person with multiple myeloma experiences frequent infections in the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin. This is caused by the compromised immune system due to abnormal plasma cells. These infections may turn severe if left untreated. Kidney problems Multiple myeloma may lead to kidney or renal impairment, resulting in kidney failure.

The studies show that around 14% of people face chronic constipation at some point. The symptoms of constipation include passing stools less than three times a week, feeling bloated all the time, having hard stools, and needing too much force to pass the stool. Constipation can be due to poor eating habits, slow digestion process, dehydration, illness, pregnancy, certain treatments, etc. A person should keep their food habits in check to manage constipation. 6 foods that can help treat constipation Given below are some fiber-rich foods that can help relieve constipation and regularize bowel movements: Fruits Fruits are rich in insoluble fiber and have high water content, making them a good pick, especially if one suffers from constipation. Here are some high-fiber fruits that can help ease the condition: Kiwi : Kiwi contains the enzyme actinide, which helps with indigestion, pain, acid reflux, and abdominal discomfort. Apples and pears : These fruits have high water content and can aid digestion. Blackberries : They are a rich source of fiber and water. A bowl of blackberries and raspberries can help with constipation. Grapes : They contain a lot of water and can hence add moisture to hard stools. Whole wheat pasta, bread, and cereals Whole wheat products like pasta, bread, and cereals are a great source of insoluble fiber. Wheat bran is the hard outer layer of the wheat kernel. It is rich in insoluble fiber and is an effective treatment for constipation in older children and infants. Vegetables Vegetables, mainly green leafy vegetables, are among the best foods for easing constipation. They deliver a healthy dose of insoluble fiber and other vital nutrients. If a person has constipation, it is best to have vegetables like carrots, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, kale, lettuce, green beans, and more. Nuts and seeds Another great source of fiber is nuts and seeds.

Cold and flu are common upper respiratory tract diseases and even though they are different, they have shared symptoms like sore throat, fever, and nasal congestion. The viral conditions spread via droplets suspended in the air from an infected person. Colds are a mild form, while a flu tends to be more severe. Once can turn to home remedies to effectively control their symptoms initially in mild cases of either condition. Top 7 home remedies for cold and flu Increase your consumption of zinc A very effective home remedy to help treat cold and flu symptoms, as well as help manage COVID, is adding zinc to the meal plan to boost the immunity system. This mineral aids in creating germ-fighting white blood cells so that symptoms of cold and flu stay under check. Additionally, zinc is also known to fight off the flu virus and reduce its growth in the body. Some of the foods that come rich in zinc comprise chickpeas, beans, dairy, lentils, red meat, eggs, and more. Furthermore, supplements can also be taken before the flu season commences to keep the immune system strong. Adding these foods as part of daily meal plan will not only aid in keeping cold and flu virus at bay, but will also help in maintaining good health. Stock up on warm soups The key to keeping virus-borne cold and flu symptoms under control is to increase the intake of fluids like warm chicken soup as it not only aids in easing congestion but also in staying hydrated. Plus, the soup is rich in protein, which provides energy during the illness. The presence of minerals like potassium and sodium in chicken broth also helps to refill the lost nutrients due to cold and flu. Moreover, chicken soup includes a compound known as carnosine that assists the body’s immune system in fending off cold and flu symptoms in the initial stages.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic and progressive lung condition that leads to scarring of the lungs. A build-up of these scar tissues impacts the ability of the lungs to transport oxygen into the bloodstream. Fortunately, there are certain foods that pulmonary fibrosis patients can have to manage their discomforting symptoms. Read on to learn more about the relationship between nutrition and pulmonary fibrosis and the best foods to include in daily meals. The connection between nutrition and pulmonary fibrosis Your lungs play a critical role in maintaining your immunity and functionality of the body at the cellular level. When lung function is compromised, it leads to a chronic state of stress in the body. This state of fight or flight may not allow your body to absorb nutrients properly and lead to malnourishment. Some studies, like the one in Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management, have also found a connection between pulmonary fibrosis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD itself contributes to nutritional deficiencies and may lead to serious health concerns. Appropriate foods help the body in multiple ways and simplify living with pulmonary fibrosis. They help in: Optimizing your weight reduces the pressure on your lungs and makes breathing easier Keeping your immunity levels high Enhancing your energy levels In the long run, healthy foods improve your pulmonary fibrosis symptoms and determine how well you respond to its treatment. Seven foods for managing pulmonary fibrosis Pulmonary fibrosis is nothing complicated. Its treatment mainly centers on including all the major food groups in your routine, primarily those rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, omega-3s, and lean protein. Here are seven foods that you must consider including in your meal plan: Fruits According to a study in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, the consumption of fruits not just helps you manage the symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis and significantly reduces the risk of getting it.

Dealing with an upset stomach is one of the common concerns most travelers have while boarding a long-haul flight. Whether a person is traveling domestically or internationally, it is common to have an upset stomach, and sometimes, the symptoms may flare up, making it embarrassing for travelers to explain. To avoid such challenging scenarios and prevent health complications, here are some common foods and beverages to avoid having before boarding flights. Dairy products Long-haul flights, lasting more than 6 hours, can negatively affect one’s digestive system. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are some common issues people experience with an upset stomach. It happens because the stomach contents get churned up with changes in altitude and cabin pressure. Furthermore, people who are lactose intolerant won’t be able to digest the sugars found in dairy entirely. This indigestion will lead to gas and bloating. Therefore, avoiding consuming dairy products on or before boarding a long-haul flight is best. Travelers must avoid fatty milk, cheese, milk curds, baked goods, and processed snacks made with milk or yogurt as the main ingredients before taking a flight. Cruciferous vegetables Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage may be nutrient-dense. However, avoiding these items before boarding a flight is advised, mainly because these vegetables can cause gas. Even at cruising altitude, the plane will adjust course and height. These adjustments trigger changes in the cabin air pressure, and the body will find it hard to process these foods. As a result, one might develop bloating and nausea. During long-haul flights, it might be hard to hold in the gas for hours, which could very well turn into an embarrassing situation. Beans Beans are notoriously known for causing bloating in mid-air. Like cruciferous vegetables, beans, when digested beans release gases that expand in the stomach. Also, altitude adjustments can churn up the stomach’s contents, which further causes abdominal discomfort.

Certain foods have a significant impact on teeth and gums. Some foods promote healthy gums, while others cause plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can cause tooth decay and enamel erosion and lead to the development of cavities. This causes several complications, such as pain, chewing problems, and tooth abscesses. Here are the top foods that can hamper oral health and must be avoided at all costs. Sour candies It’s no surprise that candies cause tooth damage. However, sour candies contain several different acids that adversely affect your teeth. They are also chewy and sticky, which means they stay around in your mouth for a longer period, causing more damage. If you are keen on having something sweet, opt for a softer piece of chocolate that you can chew and ingest quickly and wash off any remnants from your mouth. Bread Refined carbohydrates such as white bread and white rice can worsen oral health. When we chew on these starches, the saliva converts them into sugar, which can get stuck between the teeth and cause cavities. If you’re looking for carbohydrates, opt for whole wheat bread, as they typically contain fewer added sugars. Carbonated beverages Sugary, carbonated drinks like soda and sports beverages have several negative effects on one’s health, such as cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and more. They also negatively impact the health of the teeth in two distinct manners. Not only are these drinks acidic, but they also promote acid production in the mouth by fostering cavity-causing bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. According to various studies, soda is considered one of the main lifestyle factors behind dental erosion. It is best to avoid drinking carbonated beverages as much as possible. Ice Chewing on hard substances like ice can cause chipped, cracked, or broken teeth or loosened crowns.

Often, people incorrectly believe that low fertility is incurable. Fortunately, years of extensive scientific research have found that the foods one eats, or lifestyle habits can either enhance or debilitate fertility. Maintaining a good food regime can, over time, restore fertility levels in people. This is because of the nutritional value of specific foods that directly bring about positive changes in a person’s reproductive health. Thus, here are some foods that improve fertility: Oatmeal Everyone’s favorite breakfast, a warm bowl of oatmeal, is also a wonderful fertility enhancer. Studies have found that high-fiber carbs that have a low glycemic index are positive for fertility growth. Oatmeal is loaded with these kinds of high-performance carbohydrates. At the same time, one also needs to be careful. The glycemic index of carbohydrates is linked with a given food’s ability to raise or lower one’s blood sugar levels. So, while low glycemic index-based foods lower a person’s blood sugar levels, high glycemic index-based foods make that level rise. Sugar is associated with fertility issues. Thus, foods like oatmeal should be consumed in moderation or you should have sugar-free oatmeal, if possible, to attain all of their benefits while sidestepping their problematic aspects. Spinach Leafy green vegetables have countless health benefits, which is why they regularly feature on nearly all “best foods” lists, and that trend continues for this list as well. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, and Swiss chard contain large amounts of essential prenatal nutrients, such as iron, calcium, and folate. While iron is vital for preventing menstrual problems in women, folate protects them against birth defects in the brain and spine that usually develop in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Healthcare experts actively advise people suffering from infertility to eat plenty of folate-rich foods, such as spinach, to improve their chances of conception.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) are common gastrointestinal disorders that have a significant impact on the daily lives of those affected. Both conditions affect the esophagus, causing discomfort. Here, management of symptoms often involves a few lifestyle changes, including nutrition-based modifications. But these simple changes can also prevent both conditions from worsening. So, this article explores a few foods that can help manage the discomfort associated with GERD and EoE. Understanding GERD and EoE Before discussing the best foods, it’s essential to understand the specific triggers and symptoms of each condition. Gastroesophageal reflux disease develops when stomach acid regularly flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. Its common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and persistent cough. On the other hand, eosinophilic esophagitis is characterized by an allergic response in the esophagus, resulting in an excessive buildup of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. This condition often presents with symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, food impaction, chest pain, and acid reflux-like symptoms. Best foods While avoiding trigger foods is crucial for managing GERD and EoE, it is equally important to choose foods that can help alleviate symptoms and promote esophageal health. Here are the top foods to consider: 1. Ginger Ginger has long been recognized for its digestive benefits. It contains compounds such as gingerol, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties. These qualities can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with GERD and EoE. Ginger can be added to daily nutritional regimens in various forms, including as fresh ginger tea or as an ingredient in meals. It can help soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation, potentially providing relief from symptoms. 2. Oatmeal Oatmeal is a fiber-rich, whole-grain food that can be gentle on the esophagus. It is a great choice for those looking for a healthy eating plan while managing GERD and EoE.

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a group of conditions that affect the lungs. Emphysema or chronic bronchitis are two of the most common forms of COPD. While it has no absolute cure, certain treatment options can help relieve the symptoms. One of the ways to manage and improve respiratory health is to monitor what one eats and recognize foods that can worsen COPD symptoms. So, here are a few foods to avoid: Sugary foods Foods rich in refined sugar, like baked goods, cookies, candies, sweet rolls, pies, and cobblers, can increase blood sugar levels and bloating. Furthermore, these foods can cause frequent energy crashes, making one feel fatigued. All of these factors can worsen COPD symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness. Salty foods Frozen foods, salted nuts, and takeout meals may have a high amount of salt (sodium). Excessive sodium can make the body retain fluids. For those with COPD, this means an elevated risk of pulmonary hypertension or high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. These issues can lead to other COPD complications as well. So, it is important to monitor daily salt intake by checking food labels and choosing foods with low sodium. Processed meat Cured or processed meat has been associated with several health issues, including the worsening of COPD symptoms. The reason for this is the presence of high amounts of nitrites and sodium used to preserve the meat. However, these preservatives can end up damaging the lung tissues if processed meat is eaten regularly over a long period. In addition, the high amounts of sodium help retain the flavor of the meat while also causing fluid retention in the body. Both of these factors can aggravate COPD symptoms. So, one must avoid processed meats like sausages, bacon, hot dogs, lunch meats, prosciutto, salami, chorizo, and pepperoni.

While beards have recently regained popularity, their significance has been recognized since prehistoric times. For example, ancient Greeks considered beards to be signs of wisdom and virility. They were also grown to provide warmth, and protection – particularly the mouth and lips – from harmful external agents. Today, beard grooming has become a breeze with the availability of kits and products. Here are some beard grooming mistakes to avoid for a well-maintained, debonair look: Not washing the beard and mustache before trimming Washing one’s beard and mustache before one starts trimming them ensures that the facial hair is well-hydrated, making it easier to cut. This process also gives one an idea of how the beard or stubble will appear once trimmed. Therefore, it is recommended to wash and dry one’s beard before trimming it. Overlooking the importance of a beard shampoo Since the beard surrounds one’s mouth, food particles can get stuck in it. It can also become a breeding point for natural oils and external pollutants, causing the accumulation of bacteria. A beard shampoo can help dislodge accumulated particles and ensure adequate personal hygiene. It is ideal to wash one’s beard once or twice a week and up to thrice a week for dry and oily skin, respectively. Finally, it is important to wash one’s beard with a beard shampoo to maintain the hair. Using a hair shampoo for the beard Contrary to popular belief, a hair shampoo should be used exclusively for the scalp hair and not for facial hair. This is because while a hair shampoo strips the hair off its natural oils and replaces them with the oils it contains, a beard shampoo retains the hair’s natural oils and nourishes it further with its constituents. It also helps enhance the beard’s smell. Not detangling knots while combing It is important to comb one’s beard and detangle its knots, preferably using a beard brush.

Tobacco consumption is associated with several health problems, including oral cancer, emphysema, heart disease, and stroke. Approximately 28.3 million adults nationwide smoke cigarettes, the most common form of tobacco use globally. With increasing awareness of its harmful effects, many individuals are taking active measures to quit tobacco. However, abstaining from it can pose several challenges, particularly during the initial phase. So, here are some ways to manage tobacco cravings after quitting it: Delay gratification The concept of “id, ego, and superego” by Sigmund Freud can help one understand this strategy better. According to Freud, the id is the primitive part of the mind that functions by the “pleasure principle,” driving one to fulfill primitive urges, including the urge to have tobacco-based products. On the other hand, the superego functions by the “morality principle,” seeking to restrain one from consuming tobacco. The ego balances these two aspects of the mind and is driven by the “reality principle.” Individuals trying to resist tobacco cravings should focus on the “ego” aspect of the mind, resisting the urge and telling themselves to wait for ten more minutes before giving in to the temptation. Within these 10 minutes, one should try finding other activities to distract themselves, delaying the urge further. This process can help one overcome tobacco cravings over a while. Opt for nicotine replacement therapy Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a technique that provides individuals with nicotine in forms other than tobacco, helping them break the habit of smoking or chewing tobacco. Inhalers, nasal sprays, nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges are some ways nicotine is ingested in the body in low doses. This therapy has been found to increase the rate of quitting tobacco by 50-70%. Identify and avoid foods that increase the urge to smoke Some smokers may feel the urge to smoke immediately after having certain foods, such as caffeine, meat, and deep-fried or sugary foods.

Jeep is one of the most popular brands in the country, and it is known for manufacturing rugged, all-terrain vehicles that do not compromise on features or comfort. Its vehicles can be quite expensive, and it is, thus, a long-term commitment, and one must look into factors like the budget, seating space, infotainment, and more. If one is considering a vehicle from the brand, here are the most popular Jeep vehicles from 2024 to note. 2024 Jeep Wagoneer The Wagoneer is a full-size SUV from Jeep that is highly popular for its luxurious interiors. It is an 8-seater car with 3 rows of seating. The front row seats come with in-built heating and ventilation systems and also have powered recline and lumbar adjustments. Here are a few details about the Jeep Wagoneer’s interior dimensions: Headroom: 41.3 inches in the first row, 40 inches in the second row, and 39 inches in the third row. Legroom: 40.9 inches in the first row, 42.7 inches in the second row, and 36.6 inches in the third row. Shoulder room: 66.1 inches in the first row, 65.2 inches in the second row, and 64.4 inches in the third row. Besides the spacious interiors, the 2024 Wagoneer also delivers in terms of other features such as infotainment technology and driver assist technology. Infotainment: It comprises a Uconnect 5 system with a 10.1-inch screen, which is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Heads-on display: The Wagoneer also comes with a heads-on display feature, which projects essential driving information (like speed limit) on the windshield. Driver-assist features: Among its various driver-assistance features, it includes front and rear parking sensors, blind spot warning, and predictive brake assist. 2024 Jeep Wrangler The Wrangler is of the most iconic Jeep cars to date. Its 2024 version continues to have its signature look, perfectly combining the past’s grandeur with the advanced features of the present.