Our lungs play a vital role in the functioning of our body, so it is crucial to care for them. Increased exposure to air pollutants, microbes, and allergens can cause inflammation in the airways and lead to breathing trouble. These pollutants can also increase the risk of severe respiratory problems like asthma and chronic bronchitis. One way to keep the lungs healthy in the long term is to eat foods that help them function better. Apples Apples are packed with the antioxidant quercetin, which helps keep the lungs healthy. This red fruit also contains vitamin C, vitamin E, and flavonoids, which promote lung function. People who eat apples regularly have an improved lung capacity and experience a slower decline in lung functioning that occurs naturally with age. Peppers Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects against certain lung diseases like asthma and lung cancer. This vitamin is abundant in red bell peppers, chili peppers, and cayenne peppers. Cayenne peppers, in particular, are also a great source of capsaicin and beta-carotene. One can add these peppers to salads or pasta to benefit from vitamin C and antioxidants. Beets This root vegetable is loaded with nitrates, a natural chemical that may support lung health. Nitrates are converted into nitric oxide in the body, which helps relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and improve lung function. Due to these benefits, beets are recommended for people with pulmonary hypertension and breathing difficulty. Tomatoes Tomatoes contain lycopene, an excellent source of carotenoids that have numerous health benefits. According to a particular study, adding tomato and tomato products to meals can reduce airway inflammation in individuals with asthma and improve lung function in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It can also prevent chronic bronchitis from flaring up. Further, eating tomatoes regularly may help slow down the natural decline in lung function that occurs as a person ages.

For the body to function optimally, it is vital to have a stable blood count and good blood circulation. Blood count refers to the total amount of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets in the blood. Of these, the count of the RBCs and platelets should not drop below the normal range. A low RBC count can cause anemia, while a low platelet count can result in internal bleeding. Foods that help improve blood count A natural way to boost blood count is to include certain beneficial foods in the meal plan. The following foods help in raising and maintaining RBC and platelet numbers and preventing complications: Red meat Red meats like beef, poultry, and liver are rich in iron, an essential element for producing RBCs. These foods also boost hemoglobin levels in the blood, which are crucial in supplying oxygen throughout the body. Spinach This green leafy vegetable is a good source of folic acid (vitamin B9) and iron, which are vital for maintaining RBC levels. Spinach also helps increase platelet count to some extent. Dairy products Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can help stabilize blood count. They contain vitamin B12, which is critical for creating RBCs and platelets in the blood. This vitamin is also essential for the cognitive development and maturation of children. Sweet potato Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A, which is required for better absorption of iron into the blood. So, it is safe to say that vitamin A and iron work together to promote blood count. Black-eyed peas Black-eyed peas are packed with folic acid, a form of folate. Folate is essential for the multiplication of cells in the body. In other words, it helps increase RBC and platelet count. Unsurprisingly, anemia is linked to low folic acid levels in the body.

Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that develops in some people with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. It occurs when a person’s immune system starts to attack the body’s cells, leading to inflammation in joints and the overproduction of skin cells. It affects close to 1-3 percent of the world’s population. It is non-curable, and few treatment options aim to manage the symptoms. Read along to learn about its symptoms, triggers, and more. What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis? Many signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis. The manifestations of this disease also may vary from person to person.  Some of the common indicators of the condition include: Scaly and inflamed skin, especially on the knees, scalp, and elbows. Pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or more back, hips, or neck joints. Lack of energy or tiredness. Tenderness in the soles and heels  Swelling of a whole toe.  Dents or pits in the nails. Inflammation of the eye and blurry vision accompanied by redness or pain. What triggers psoriatic arthritis? The cause of psoriatic arthritis is an immune system disorder, where your immune system acts against your body. Both genetic and environmental factors seem to influence this response. Other than these, here are some other elements that can trigger psoriatic arthritis: Having psoriasis is one of the most significant risk factors that increases one’s tendency to develop psoriatic arthritis Obesity Having a family history of the condition A viral or bacterial infection may trigger psoriatic arthritis in some people who have the chance of inheriting psoriasis Which foods help to minimize the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis? Psoriatic arthritis may worsen over time. In severe cases, it may even cause permanent damage to your joints, including deformity.  People living with this condition are also at a higher risk of getting other serious health problems, such as:

The body goes through various changes, especially those affecting the senses, as one gets older. Here, weakening eyesight is a common phenomenon in older adults, however, it does not have to be inevitable. Age-related macular degeneration is an eye disease characterized by the deterioration of the retina’s central portion. One’s lifestyle and food choices can have a huge impact on eye health. So here are some foods to eat and avoid to maintain strong vision:  Best foods Various foods can help one manage macular degeneration symptoms and keep eye diseases at bay. Here are some great options to consider: Broccoli Broccoli is loaded with vitamins and minerals that could help one deal with eye conditions like macular degeneration. It is rich in vitamin A, which helps fight eye diseases and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. It is also loaded with vitamin K and B vitamins, fibers, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining overall health. Blackberries Blackberries contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that help reduce the risk of age-related vision problems. Vitamins B6, C, A, folate, and zinc in these berries can prevent eyesight issues. The fruit also contains a dark pigment called anthocyanin, which protects the retina from sun damage. In addition, it acts as an antioxidant helping fight free radical damage to the eyes. Spinach Spinach is a leafy green that contains vitamin A, fibers, and minerals. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining eye health and reducing the risk of vision-related issues. As spinach contains an antioxidant called lutein that lowers the risk of macular degeneration.  Carrot Carrots are associated with eye health, as it contains vitamins C and B12 that improve vision. Carrots are also loaded with folate, zinc, and alpha and beta carotenes. Studies have found that those who eat carrots regularly are less likely to get diseases like macular degeneration.  Cranberries Cranberries contain anthocyanin and other powerful antioxidants which support eye health.

Chronic kidney disease, or chronic renal disease, is when the kidneys gradually lose their function. Since the kidneys’ primary function is to filter out wastes from the blood, their deteriorating function can lead to metabolic wastes building up in the body, making the person unwell. Therefore, the basic idea of a kidney-friendly meal is to limit the consumption of food rich in sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorous. So let’s learn about what foods are ideal. Foods to eat: Blueberries Blueberries are known as a “superfood” for a good reason, as antioxidants are abundant in this berry. They are also a low-calorie fiber and vitamin C source and contain only low potassium levels. Hence, these are good for kidney patients. Alternatively, raspberries, strawberries, and cranberries are other fruits equally suitable for those with stable renal conditions. Olive Oil The best supplement to any meal plan imaginable is olive oil. Its low sodium, potassium, and phosphorus concentrations make it highly edible for people with renal issues. Its high concentration of beneficial monounsaturated fats makes it the ideal cooking oil for kidney patients and healthy individuals. Extra virgin or virgin olive oils should be purchased as they contain more antioxidants. For example, one may use olive oil in cooking, salad dressings, bread dipping, and vegetable marinades. Cauliflower For patients with kidney disease, cauliflower can be substituted for potatoes as it is low in potassium. It also has a lot of anti-inflammatory substances like indoles and is an excellent source of fiber, which guards against kidney-related illnesses and regulates uric acid levels. Indoles, glycosylates, and thiocyanates are also abundant in them; these molecules aid the liver in removing toxins that could harm DNA and cell membranes. For example, cauliflower can be consumed raw, cooked, boiled, blanched, in salads, as a dip, or raw. Egg and meat Egg whites are a high-quality, kidney-friendly source of protein.

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.

An inflammatory condition that affects the skin, eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects one in four adults. In severe cases, it causes itchy rashes, dry patches, skin irritation, and oozing blisters. The cause of eczema is usually credited to environmental factors and genes. Those with eczema usually have food allergies as well. Thus, food and nutrition play a major role in managing eczema. Here are a few foods that can help prevent eczema flare-ups. Berries Berries such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries contain quercetin, a plant-based flavonoid. This is where fruits, flowers, and vegetables derive their rich colors from. Quercetin is an antihistamine and antioxidant. It prevents cell damage and helps combat inflammation. Eating berries is useful in avoiding eczema flare-ups.  Yogurt Rich in live culture, yogurt is one of the best probiotic foods to consume. It strengthens the immune system. Moreover, it prevents allergic reactions. This way, it lowers the intensity of eczema flare-ups. Eating probiotic foods is one of the most effective ways to manage eczema symptoms and itchy skin. Other probiotic-based foods that can add a variety to one’s daily meals include kefir, kombucha, miso soup, sauerkraut, and tempeh. Naturally-fermented pickles and sourdough bread are also good options. Bananas With a high percentage of potassium, bananas are good for the skin. Moreover, this fruit helps alleviate inflammation and irritation that trigger eczema symptoms. Potassium is an anti-inflammatory nutrient that lowers the intensity of flare-ups. Other potassium-rich foods that help manage eczema include white beans, sweet potatoes, acorn squash, and avocadoes. Broth Beef and chicken broth are some of the most comforting foods. Moreover, these are packed with healthy nutrients. What’s more, for those with eczema or atopic dermatitis, these broths are useful in preventing eczema symptoms. Broths made from lean meats are good for the skin and help rebuild damaged cells.  Rice milk Milk made from rice is often the go-to beverage for those with eczema.

In a world where most ready-to-eat meals contain excess fats and calories, finding a balance becomes necessary. The food one consumes helps maintain overall health, reduces the risk of a disease, and hastens the recovery process. This is particularly true in the case of cancer. While no food can cure cancer, intake of certain vegetables, such as the ones given below, may reduce its risk. This article additionally touches upon options for cancer treatment. 7 Foods That Help Reduce the Risk of Cancer Berries Berries like blackberries, mulberries, strawberries, and blueberries are rich sources of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and manganese. They also contain a high amount of antioxidants, including ellagic acid, gallic acid, and chlorogenic acid, and have anti-cancer properties. Garlic Garlic is a vegetable that contains an active compound called allicin. One study concluded that people who ate a large number of allicin-rich vegetables such as garlic, onions, leeks, and shallots had a lower risk of stomach cancer. Tomato According to some experts, this fruit is a cancer-fighting superfood. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which is an antioxidant phytochemical that keeps away heart diseases. They are, additionally, a rich source of vitamin A, C, and E, all nutrients that help reduce the risk of cancer. Grapes Grapes and other citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges decrease the risk of cancer, especially of the digestive and upper respiratory tract. They are also known to reduce the risk of pancreatic and stomach cancer. Broccoli Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are known for having potent anti-cancer properties. They contain glucosinolates, which produce protective enzymes when they pass through the digestive system. These enzymes help the body to detoxify harmful chemicals that could lower cancer risk. Apples Each slice of an apple contains a high amount of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.

Neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood can challenge children’s intellectual growth and development. Timely diagnosis and intervention are essential to ensure the child’s steady progress. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is among the most prevalent neurodevelopmental conditions, involving difficulty paying attention, severe restlessness, and impulsive behavior. Today, several types of therapies are being implemented to help children with ADHD perform better in the academic and personal spheres. Here’s everything to know about ADHD: What Causes ADHD? Genetic predisposition Adoption studies have shown that genetic factors play a significant role in the onset of ADHD. In most cases, individuals inherit this condition from their parents. About one-third to 50% of children with parents affected by ADHD inherit the disorder. Brain injury Children suffering from a severe head injury affecting the brain are likely to develop ADHD. In such scenarios wherein ADHD is caused by trauma, the condition is called secondary ADHD. Exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy Studies have shown that the chances of developing ADHD were higher among children whose mothers had been exposed to harmful substances like lead during pregnancy. Maternal stress and trauma during pregnancy Children whose mothers have undergone immense stress or trauma while pregnant are susceptible to being diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Premature birth Some studies have demonstrated that children born prematurely will likely develop ADHD symptoms during childhood. Symptoms of ADHD Fidgeting Individuals with ADHD may engage in constant fidgeting, including tapping their feet, drumming their fingers, and being unable to sit still for long periods. Anxiety ADHD involves restlessness and severe hyperactivity, which can trigger anxiety, particularly among adults grappling with the condition. Such anxiety is typically caused by distressing thoughts repeatedly playing on their minds and can worsen other ADHD symptoms. Extreme difficulty paying attention One of the most prominent symptoms of ADHD is the inability to pay attention to events around the person.

Quality sleep is important for maintaining one’s overall health. Good sleep can reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses and boost immunity. The general recommendation for healthy adults is between 7 to 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep. However, many people may struggle to achieve this. This can result from several lifestyle factors impacting sleep, and food is one of them. Check out these ten surprising foods that can enhance one’s sleep quality. Almonds Almonds are a healthy source of phosphorus, riboflavin, magnesium, and manganese. Regular consumption of almonds has been associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases such as type-2 diabetes and heart conditions due to their fiber, antioxidant, and monounsaturated (healthy) fat content. Almonds are also a source of melatonin, which helps regulate the internal body clock and signals the body to prepare for sleep. Although there aren’t detailed studies available linking almonds with sleep, their melatonin and magnesium content is generally attributed to improved sleep quality. Turkey Lean white meats such as chicken and turkey contain tryptophan, an amino acid that is found in certain proteins. Tryptophan helps the body produce serotonin, which can help stabilize one’s mood and sleep cycle. Serotonin is also vital for producing melatonin, an important hormone for regulating one’s sleep. According to certain studies, eating foods rich in tryptophan can help increase sleep efficiency and reduce sleep fragmentation for people aged 55-75. Those looking for vegan sources of tryptophan can turn to quinoa, kidney beans, chickpeas, and bananas. White rice White rice, although low in fiber and other nutrients compared to brown rice, is still a good source of folate, thiamine, manganese, and carbohydrates. It is a common staple in many households and cultures and ranks significantly high on the glycemic index. Due to its ability to raise blood glucose levels, white rice can help improve sleep quality when consumed at least one hour before bed.

GERD, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic acid reflux condition that affects around twenty percent of the population. This condition causes burning discomfort, bloating, or even belching after almost every meal. One of the reasons this acid reflux happens is if the lower esophageal sphincter is weakened or damaged. The best way to manage this disease is to structure a good meal plan to avoid reactions. Here are some best foods to manage GERD. Ginger This has been used as a remedy root for many centuries for various chronic ailments. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help treat complications like heartburn and other gastrointestinal problems. This root is said to have phenolic compounds, known for their ability to relieve gastrointestinal irritation and help reduce gastric contractions that can cause pain. Since it is also an anti-inflammatory herb, it helps reduce inflammation of the esophagus, which causes this acid reflux. You can consume this herb in several ways by adding it to food recipes or tea. Also, be careful not to overuse this ingredient and eat in moderation. Oatmeal A whole-grain breakfast option, oatmeal, is considered excellent for gut health. It is full of fiber which is known for its digestive properties that are essential when dealing with issues related to the gastro. Oatmeal is not just healthy for the but also a heart-healthy option for everyone. It helps absorb stomach acid and reduce the other symptoms of GERD. There are several ways in which you can consume oatmeal, and this can include adding some sweet toppings like some seasonal fruits to your regular boiled oatmeal. Also, this ingredient is generally considered a low-acidic food that can help keep the stomach’s health balanced and maintained. Healthy fats Unlike what most people believe, fats are good for the body. But ensuring you have unsaturated fats in your meals makes it a good meal plan.

Osteoporosis is a bone condition characterized by loss of bone density and mass, which can reduce mobility and increase the susceptibility to fractures. Deterioration of bone strength could be a result of calcium and vitamin D deficiency or other health conditions. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help restore bone density and prevent further damage. Further, certain lifestyle and meal-plan changes can expedite the healing process. So, here are some foods people with osteoporosis should avoid: Processed foods Processed foods like store-bought burgers, pizzas, cold cuts, and hot dogs can deplete the body’s calcium levels significantly, damaging the bones and worsening osteoporosis symptoms. So, it is best to replace processed foods with healthy fat and carb sources like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Beans Although beans are excellent sources of fiber, magnesium, and protein, they also contain high levels of phytate, which can reduce calcium absorption, weakening the bones. Adding different types of beans, including kidney beans, lentils, and garbanzo beans, to meal plans in moderation can be good for health. However, one should consider limiting beans to prevent further complications when dealing with osteoporosis. Liver Liver is one of the richest sources of vitamin A, a vital nutrient to facilitate healthy vision, a strong immune system, and optimal physical growth. However, studies have shown that an intake of over 10,000 IU of vitamin A per day can cause low bone density and lead to fractures. A serving of beef liver contains more than 100% of the daily vitamin A requirement, making beef, pork, and calf liver one of the key foods to avoid for osteoporosis management. Caffeine Caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee can interfere with calcium absorption. Research suggests that approximately 6 mg of calcium is lost from the body with every 100 mg of caffeine intake. Several studies also support the association between caffeine intake and low bone density.