Caring for your cat is not only about grooming them or spending time with them. It also involves providing them with proper nutrition for better health. You will be glad to hear that your pet cat can safely enjoy selected foods from your plate. But remember that cats are carnivorous animals, so 50% of their meals should be animal protein. Here is a list of human foods that are safe and suitable for cats. Apples Apples have fiber, vitamins, and even water to keep cats hydrated. While you can safely feed them apples in moderate quantities, ensure to remove the skin, stem, and seeds, as they contain tiny amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to cats. Meat Cats are carnivores, so you can feed them any type of meat, such as beef, turkey, and chicken. Meat is a good source of protein, necessary for a healthy heart, eyesight, and reproductive system. Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked without sauces or seasonings. The skin and bones should also be removed before feeding. The best methods to cook meat for feline consumption are boiling, grilling, or baking. Fish Most cats love fish because they taste and smell good, but every pet’s preference can differ. If you are confused bout choosing a particular variety of fish, go for tuna and salmon. These are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce inflammation in felines and improve vision and joint health. But serving raw fish to cats is not a good idea; give them cooked or canned fish. Whole grains Cats can safely enjoy whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, barley, cornmeal, and millet. These grains have plant-based proteins and fiber and are easier to digest than processed grains like corn, wheat, and soy. Whole grains benefit a cat’s overall health as long as they are well-cooked and fed in limited quantities.

Prurigo nodularis is a severe skin condition that leads to inflammation. It causes itchy rashes distributed symmetrically over the legs, arms, upper back, or abdomen. To get relief from the symptoms, people often resort to dietary changes. Individuals can manage their symptoms more effectively by avoiding certain foods that could trigger the condition. Here are some food items that people with prurigo nodularis should avoid to take a proactive approach to manage symptoms. Foods to avoid for managing prurigo nodularis Dairy products Dairy can exacerbate inflammation and itching associated with prurigo nodularis. Steering clear of milk, cheese, and yogurt may help mitigate discomfort. Gluten-containing grains Wheat, barley, and rye, containing gluten, can contribute to inflammation. Opt for gluten-free alternatives like rice, quinoa, and corn. Processed sugar Refined sugars in sweets and sugary beverages can lead to blood sugar spikes, potentially worsening prurigo nodularis. Artificial sweeteners Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin may disrupt gut health, influencing skin conditions negatively. Choose alternatives such as stevia and honey. Processed foods Highly processed foods often contain additives and artificial flavors that trigger or exacerbate skin reactions. Red meat Red meat may promote inflammation, so individuals with prurigo nodularis should limit their consumption. Saturated fats Foods high in saturated fats, like fried dishes and fatty cuts of meat, can intensify inflammation and symptoms. Shellfish Shellfish, particularly shrimp and crab, can be high in iodine, potentially worsening skin conditions. Processed meats Deli meats, sausages, and bacon often contain additives and preservatives that may exacerbate inflammation and prurigo nodularis symptoms. Caffeine Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to dehydration and may exacerbate itching and discomfort. Spicy foods Spicy foods can stimulate nerve endings, potentially intensifying itching associated with prurigo nodularis. Nightshade vegetables Tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants belong to the nightshade family, which may contain alkaloids that exacerbate inflammation.

About to head out for an exciting beach vacation? The joy of lying in the sand or heading for a swim in the cool water is unmatched! However, in the days of planning and anticipation, many people often forget to take care of some of the basics, which could dampen the fun within no time. Here’s a compiled list of ten ways to avoid ruining a fun beach vacay to ensure a leisure-filled getaway from the humdrum of daily life. Stay hydrated On warm sunny days, heading to the beach sounds like an absolute delight. If one plans to head to the sea/ocean for a swim, play beach volleyball, or even just lounge in the sand, there’s always a risk of getting sweaty because of the humidity. Sweating is the body’s way of cooling off. However, this may lead to dehydration, making one feel tired. It could also increase one’s risk of a heat stroke. Sipping on water or fluids and staying hydrated is important for a great day out at the beach. While adequate water consumption depends on one’s age, activity levels, and the local weather conditions, people must focus on drinking at least 2-3 liters of water daily. Use skin protection When stepping into the sun, one must take all necessary precautions to avoid sunburns and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Follow these guidelines set by the American Association of Dermatologists when choosing a sunscreen: Pick a sun-blocking sunscreen with at least SPF 30 Use a broad-spectrum sunblock that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays Pick a water-resistant sunscreen Apply about an ounce of sunscreen from head to toe and massage it thoroughly before stepping out into the sun. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours to get adequate protection from the sun. Additionally, to enhance skin safety, bring a beach umbrella and wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt.

Women have to go through a transformative phase known as menopause. This is when the body undergoes significant changes due to fluctuations in reproductive hormones, marking the end of fertility. While menopause is a natural and inevitable change, the early signs can vary from one person to another. Recognizing the subtle signs can help one prepare themselves to navigate this phase with ease and get the support and care they need. Irregular periods One of the earliest signs of menopause is the sudden onset of irregular periods. In the early stages of menopause, one can observe that their periods are either becoming increasingly irregular or light. The length of the cycles may also be affected and can get shorter or longer. In some women, the gap between two consecutive periods might be as long as a couple of months. The changes in the production of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are responsible for irregular periods. Hot flashes and night sweats Another common symptom of menopause is the onset of hot flashes and night sweats. The symptoms are characterized as a sudden sensation of intense heat, often accompanied by signs like flushing of the face, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. Night sweats can be considered a type of hot flash that usually occurs when sleeping. These symptoms can disrupt sleep and lead to increased irritability and fatigue. Hot flashes and night sweats are triggered by hormonal changes and can vary in frequency and intensity. Difficulty sleeping Many going through menopause experience disrupted sleep due to hormonal fluctuations. One may find it difficult to fall asleep or may frequently wake up during the night or early morning. This leads to sleep deprivation, inconsistent sleep schedule, poor quality of sleep, and daytime fatigue. Creating a calming bedtime routine, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and creating a sleep-friendly environment can help improve sleep quality.

The human eyes are windows to the world, allowing one to witness its beauty and intricacies. But did you know that excessive sugar intake could take a toll on your eyesight? Research suggests that high sugar levels in the body can contribute to various eye health issues. Sugar has become a ubiquitous part of modern meal plans, with its sweet temptations lurking in countless foods and beverages. While the harmful effects of sugar on overall health are well-known, its impact on eyesight is often overlooked. This ignorance makes it all the more important to look into the matter with the severity it deserves. Blurred vision Excessive sugar intake can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, causing the lens in the eye to swell, resulting in blurred vision. It can occur intermittently, especially after eating sugary foods or drinking sweetened beverages. The vision may take some time to return to normal after the sugar levels stabilize. If you notice recurring blurred vision, it is essential to monitor your sugar intake and consult an eye care specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. Increased sensitivity to light High sugar levels can cause the eye’s lens to become more sensitive to light, leading to increased light sensitivity or photophobia. Individuals with poor eyesight due to excessive sugar intake may experience discomfort or pain when exposed to bright light. This sensitivity can be bothersome and affect daily activities, making it necessary to wear sunglasses or seek shade in well-lit environments. Managing sugar intake and protecting your eyes from excessive light exposure can help alleviate this symptom. Eye fatigue Prolonged exposure to high levels of sugar can contribute to eye fatigue or eye strain. Excessive sugar intake can lead to fluctuations in energy levels, resulting in tired, achy eyes. Eye fatigue may be exacerbated by activities that require prolonged focus, such as working on a computer, reading, or driving.

In this digital era wherein technology and the internet steer sectors forward, people often require various computer software. Time and again, such software come at exorbitant rates, which is one reason why most customers wait for events like Black Friday to buy them at reasonable rates. This way, customers can single out their preferences according to their requirements. Let’s look at some of the expected deals on software this Black Friday. CallHippo CallHippo is a business phone system that functions on cloud computing. This software will let businesses make and receive calls with customers globally. By letting enterprises acquire instant local support numbers from across the globe and allowing them to institute a flexible phone connection at places having stable internet connectivity, CallHippo advocates sidestepping the complexity of setting up a support center. You can expect this software to be up for sale this Black Friday at a reasonable discount. Document360 Document360 is a SaaS platform that helps enterprises build an online base for self-service knowledge catering to their customers. There is a probability that this documentation tool will have a 20% reduction in price on Black Friday this year. Norton Anti-Virus Malware and viruses are perhaps the greatest of threats that people confront in this digital era. Seldom do people realize that when they click on unknown links, viruses enter their computer and pose severe risks to its functioning. Norton Anti-Virus is a computer software that can save your PC from unwanted malware. This Black Friday, avail of this software at more than 60% discount. Rosetta Stone If you are a globetrotter who loves learning new languages on your journey, then Rosetta Stone might benefit you. Moreover, if you want unlimited access to all features of a language learning platform, then this is the software you must buy. You are likely to get it at a pocket-friendly price during the holiday sales.

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term inflammatory disease that triggers inflammation and ulcers in the digestive system. It impacts the colon and rectum’s innermost lining. The symptoms are typically produced over a period rather than unexpectedly. According to the latest studies, about 1 million people have ulcerative colitis, and if left untreated, it can be crippling and cause life-threatening conditions. So, here are 5 tips to prevent and manage ulcerative colitis: Get on with the treatment plan immediately Even though there is no concrete cure for ulcerative colitis, proper treatment can help ease the symptoms and signs of the condition and eventually provide long-term remission. If a patient feels that their bowel habits are consistently changing or if they experience any of the following symptoms and signs, they should immediately consult a doctor: Blood in stool Ongoing diarrhea that is not getting cured by any other types of treatments An unknown fever going on for more than a day or two Abdominal pain Diarrhea that wakes up the patient from sleep The treatments prescribed by the doctor will typically include a combination of oral therapy or surgery. As far as oral treatments are concerned, the doctor may prescribe any of the following types of therapies, depending on the patient’s existing condition: Anti-inflammatory remedies: These are given as the first step in the direction of ulcerative colitis treatment and are suitable for most patients suffering from this condition. They primarily include: 5-aminosalicylates: Can be given orally or as a suppository or enema, depending on which portion has been affected. Immune system suppressors: They, too, ease inflammation. However, they do so by suppressing the very cause of the inflammation, that is, the immune system. Biologics: They attack the proteins generated by the immune system to ease inflammation. The therapies mentioned above are administered and combined with some supportive oral treatments to ease symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a condition in which the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and rests between beats is higher than the normal range (120 over 80). This changes according to the activities one does throughout the day. Hypertension is known as a silent killer because its symptoms usually go unnoticed until it gets to an advanced stage. Here are some signs and symptoms one should watch out for before it gets too late. Headaches It is normal to get headaches, but if you have persistent and throbbing pain, it may be a sign of hypertension. This is especially noticed when you wake up in the morning. Dizziness One could feel dizzy for several reasons, and hypertension should not be ruled out as the illness causing this symptom. Some people may even experience fainting due to high blood pressure. So be aware of any changes in your body’s normal functions. Blurred vision The eyes contain many tiny blood vessels, which, when subjected to high blood pressure, may lead to rupture of these vessels. It could lead to retinopathy or blood vessel damage. This lack of blood flow to the retina can lead to blurred vision or even loss of sight. Chest pain When one experiences high blood pressure, it can damage the arteries. The condition makes the arteries less elastic, leading to decreased blood and oxygen flow to the heart. This can increase the risk of developing heart diseases like angina, which causes chest pain. Shortness of breath The arteries carry oxygen to the lungs through the heart. When one experiences hypertension, the arteries do not contain enough oxygen to carry to the lungs. This can lead to shortness of breath even in regular everyday tasks. Fatigue and weakness Generally, a lack of energy is a warning sign of hypertension.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in boosting immunity and maintaining overall health and well-being. Food is fuel for the body and an organic source of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that keep essential bodily functions up and running. Unfortunately, many people overlook the benefits of healthy meals, increasing their risk of developing diseases and infections. Here are ten popular superfoods for the immune system experts recommend including in the nutrition regimen. Blueberries Blueberries are the richest sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that boost immunity. A handful of blueberries pack essential polyphenols and anthocyanins that prevent free radicals from causing oxidative stress to healthy cells. This lowers the risk of chronic diseases that impact cell regeneration. In addition, blueberries are low in calories and high in nutrients like fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and K. These compounds significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, boost cognitive function, lower blood pressure, fight common urinary tract infections, and even boast anti-diabetic effects. So, one can add blueberries to their food plan and enjoy these health benefits in the long term. Broccoli Nutritionists recommend including as many cruciferous vegetables and dark leafy greens in the food plan as possible to boost immunity. Broccoli is a rich source of soluble fiber, iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamins C and K. Combined, these nutrients prevent imbalances in blood sugar levels, improve joint and bone health, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, and boost overall immunity. Broccoli is also a rich organic source of sulforaphane, an active compound that blocks harmful enzymes in the body, preventing them from causing pain and inflammation of the joints. Spinach This green leafy veggie is full of active folates, magnesium, and vitamins A and C that actively boost immunity. A cupful of cooked spinach contains more anti-inflammatory compounds than a few other veggies combined.

A good night’s sleep is as important as following a balanced meal plan and exercising regularly. Poor sleeping habits have an adverse effect on your hormones and the functioning of the brain. It can interfere with your cognitive functions as well as physical health. Tossing and turning every night causes sleep disturbance. There are many reasons for this, including poor sleep hygiene. Therefore, you need to follow a proper sleep routine to maintain your health.  Here are a few things that you should avoid for a healthy sleep cycle. Avoid making poor food choices before bedtime Don’t overeat or starve yourself before bedtime. It is best to avoid having a heavy meal three hours before bedtime. Overeating can trigger  heartburn , and this can cause delays in falling asleep. Also, try to avoid caffeine-based products as they have stimulating effects on your body, which may further interfere with your sleep. They will initially make you feel drowsy but later disrupt your sleep cycle. It is also said that such beverages can increase the symptoms of snoring, sleep apnea, and disrupted sleep patterns. Also, harmful substances can reduce the production of melatonin during night-time, leading to sleep deprivation. Late night binges on greasy, processed foods like pizza, and burgers may also affect your sleep.  Cut down on daytime naps Napping at the wrong time of day may be harmful if you habitually do it. Also, napping should be an hour at maximum. When you have a late-night work schedule, you might take a nap to make up for your sleep debt. Short power naps are important to keep yourself active throughout the day, but long and irregular naps can negatively affect your sleep cycle. By sleeping during the daytime, your body clock gets confused, causing you to struggle to sleep at night.  Don’t overheat the bedroom The temperature of your room plays an important role in maintaining your sleep cycle.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune condition. Here, the body’s immune system, which is supposed to fight infections, begins attacking healthy tissues and organs. This causes pain and inflammation. One may also experience symptoms like skin sensitivity, joint pains, rashes, and issues with internal organs like the kidneys, heart, and lungs. The condition does not have a cure, however, treatment options can help one manage its symptoms. Symptoms Here are a few symptoms one should recognize: Fatigue Most people with lupus experience fatigue, which can worsen with muscle and joint pain. Many may experience stiffness and swelling in the neck, thigh, and arms. While getting adequate sleep can relieve general exhaustion, when fatigue is accompanied by some sort of pain and discomfort, one should consult a doctor. Skin rashes The most common and prominent symptom of this disease is a butterfly-shaped rash on both cheeks and the nose bridge. Around 30% of people affected by lupus experience this symptom. The rash may appear suddenly before a flare-up or right after excessive sun exposure. For some, the condition also causes hives and non-itchy lesions all over the body. Some may notice discoloration in their toes or fingers.  Hair loss Hair loss and thinning hair are early signs of lupus. Here, the skin on the scalp gets inflamed making hair fall out. The hair may start thinning gradually or could even fall in clumps. Strands also become brittle and ragged when dealing with this condition.  Low-grade fever A low-grade fever for no discernible reason is another early symptom of lupus. The body temperature may linger between 98.5 and 101 degrees Fahrenheit, and this might be a persistent symptom.  Swelling and pain in joints People with lupus might experience stiffness, pain, and swelling in the joints, especially in the morning.

Annual eye exams can help detect changes in vision and also aid in keeping eye infections and diseases at bay. While many eyesight issues can develop due to age and existing health conditions, certain daily habits can increase the risk of such problems. While an ophthalmologist can help one find solutions to correct, improve, and resolve vision-related issues, one should also avoid doing the following things to improve eye health:  Things to avoid Not choosing nutrient-rich food The human body needs nutrients and minerals to carry out vital functions. So, when one skips nutrient-rich meals, it can lead to a deficiency that can affect overall health, including vision. Further, a vitamin deficiency can damage the optic nerve. So, one should choose foods that provide essential nutrients; for instance, foods like beans and fresh fruits and vegetables like kale, spinach, and lemon are great additions to meal plans. Excessive sun exposure One of the worst things that can hurt the eyes is staring at the sun. Typically, looking at the sun without any protective gear can cause a burning sensation. Here, the damage to the retina develops within a few seconds and causes discomfort. So, healthcare professionals recommend using special-purpose solar-filtered lenses to protect the eyes from such harm. Staring at screens for long periods Today, people depend heavily on electronic devices such as computers, TVs, smartphones, and tablets. Studies have shown that people of all ages blink less when looking at a screen, which can lead to dryness and strain in the eyes. If left untreated, these minor issues can contribute to poor vision. So, to steer clear of such problems and maintain eye health, one can use the 20-20-20 rule recommended by the American Optometric Association. According to the rule, one must take regular breaks from the screen every 20 minutes and try to focus on an object at least 20 feet away from them for 20 seconds.