5 Common Digestive Issues and Their Symptoms

5 Common Digestive Issues and Their Symptoms

One of the most vital systems in our body is the digestive system. It is responsible for the digestion of food and the distribution of nutrients throughout the body to meet the bodily requirements for energy, development, and cell repair. Issues in the digestive can interfere with the body’s ability to get energy from food. While some gastrointestinal issues can go away with healthy eating habits, other concerns may require treatment.  Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) IBS is a functional bowel disorder. This means the cluster of varied symptoms categorized as IBS is brought on by changes in the normal functioning of the digestive system. The primary sign is abdominal pain, which can develop before or after a bowel movement, and is a reliable indicator of IBS. Additionally, one may experience both constipation and diarrhea. The form of IBS can be determined depending on whether a person has diarrhea or constipation more frequently or both equally. Other IBS signs and symptoms are incomplete bowel motions, white mucus in the stool, and bloating. Nutrition is important for managing the symptoms of IBS, which includes eating low-fat, high-fiber meals and avoiding common trigger foods when the cause of the condition is unknown. Food poisoning or gastrointestinal infection are common causes. During an infection, the immune system in the gut becomes active and produces cells and proteins that make the gut nerves more sensitive, affecting one’s digestive health. The gut experiences bloating and pain as a result of highly sensitive nerves. A low-FODMAP diet, which calls for avoiding foods high in certain carbohydrates (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols), has been shown to relieve the symptoms of IBS. Crohn’s disease Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The portions of the GI tract that are most usually impacted by Crohn’s disease are the terminal ileum and cecum.
7 things that can aggravate arthritis symptoms

7 things that can aggravate arthritis symptoms

Arthritis is a condition that impacts about one out of four adults in the country. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While in the initial days, one may feel mildly irritated due to stiffness in joints, in the advanced stage, it may turn downright crippling. Besides, what is common among the arthritis types is inflammation. Here are a few things that can worsen arthritis symptoms:  Not following a workout regime Skipping exercise during arthritis is perceived as the most logical thing to do. And why not? It will do nothing but intensify your already paining joints. Right? Well, not really! In actuality, it is the opposite. The more you engage in physical activities, the lesser stiffness and pain you will feel in the joints. Besides that, following a well-planned workout regime with the right exercises will make the muscles around your joints more potent, reducing the perils of arthritis symptoms. Consult your doctor about the types of physical exercises you should do. Ideally, activities like yoga, swimming, and biking are considered joint-friendly. Indulging in intense physical activities Neither too little nor too much should be the modus operandi while working out. This is specifically applicable when you have arthritis. While exercising too little can do nothing to relieve the stiffness and pain from your joints, over exercising can worsen your joint pain, so much so that you can even suffer joint damage. So, avoid pushing yourself beyond the limit and consult a health professional for a workout plan. Not paying attention to increasing BMI levels When you have arthritis, maintaining your Body Mass Index is highly essential. Otherwise, your sensitive joints are prone to feel the extra load. You must note that for every 10 pounds of extra mass added to your body, the force your knees experience is intensified by 30 or 40 pounds.
8 Ways to Reduce Data Plan Usage and Avoid Overage Charges

8 Ways to Reduce Data Plan Usage and Avoid Overage Charges

Today, most of one’s daily essential activities, from managing finances to watching online content and shopping for one’s favorite items, require secure Internet access. Hence, buying a suitable data plan is essential to enjoying uninterrupted Internet service. Although several Internet providers offer smartphone Internet plans, picking a package that best suits one’s requirements while being reasonable is important. In addition, here are some ways to reduce data plan usage and avoid overage charges: 1. Choose a plan wisely Not choosing the right Internet phone plan can cause one to incur unnecessary charges. For this reason, it is essential to consider one’s requirements carefully and choose a plan that does not include any additional features. For example, individuals who do not watch streaming videos or play games on their phones should opt for basic Internet plans, which cost less while catering to their needs. Moreover, certain Internet service providers offer cost-saving strategies without compromising Internet quality or speed. For instance, AT&T Fiber® enables users to save up to $20 per month using its exclusive promo code, EXTRA50. Therefore, one should look for plans and providers offering such benefits to users. 2. Check the start and end dates of the data plan It is essential to note the start and end dates of one’s phone plan, as continued data usage after the plan ends can cause one to incur overage charges. 3. Use Wi-Fi as much as possible Wi-Fi is one of the most effective ways to reduce data plan usage. In addition to using a Wi-Fi connection at home and work, it is a good idea to look for secure and free Wi-Fi networks in public places like restaurants, libraries, malls, airports, and cafes. However, one should ensure that the connection is secure, as Wi-Fi can become a medium for hackers to extract one’s personal information.
10 dog food deals to check out this Black Friday

10 dog food deals to check out this Black Friday

Black Friday brings with it a lot of deals and discounts where you can buy loads of things for yourself and your family and friends. However, did you know that on this day you can get great deals on dog foods too? Some of the most nutritious and delicious dog foods will be offered at cheaper rates. So, you can use these sales to stock up on the best food items for your furry friend. Inception Dry Dog Food Inception’s dry dog food is made with 70% animal protein. It has oats and millets that allow your furry friend to stay happy and active all the time. The taste is amazing, and it is free from many kinds of allergy-causing ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. If your dog is sensitive to some food items, do not worry; this dry dog food is easy to digest. On Black Friday, it might be available at a discounted rate of around $34. Royal Canin Large Adult dry dog food For every large breed pet above the age of five, the Royal Canin size health nutrition dry dog food is the best choice. It has antioxidants that fight the signs of aging and provides long life and vitality to your furry best friend. It has vitamins and minerals that can boost the strength of bones and joints. On Black Friday, you can expect to save around $6 as it could be priced at about $75. Wag Grain-inclusive Dry Dog Food This dry dog food is a good source of calcium and phosphorus. Your dog’s regular intake of this food will result in strong teeth and bones. It also has antioxidants to support the immune system and nutrients that can boost brain function. This pet food might be available on Black Friday at a price of only around $23, which is approximately 12% lower than the actual rate.
Foods to Avoid to Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Foods to Avoid to Manage Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic Esophagitis, or EoE, is a chronic digestive disease of the esophagus caused by an allergic condition. It is characterized by chest pain, heartburn, and solid food dysphagia. If this disorder is left untreated, it can cause esophageal remodeling and stricture formation. This disorder is also marked by eosinophilic inflammation and impacts the quality of life of the affected person. You can check out various reliable health websites to get information on eosinophilic esophagitis. A patient with EoE must be very careful with his health and meal plans, as research suggests that EoE is linked to food allergies. Therefore, the six most common food items that are responsible for such allergies include: Dairy Cow milk is said to be one of the most common reasons for EoE. Milk protein can trigger too many eosinophils. You should avoid food items made up of milk, buttermilk, lactose, and other related dairy products. You can replace dairy products with coconut hemp, dairy-free yogurts, cashew ice cream, etc. Soy Soy-based food items include tofu, soy butter, soymilk, and miso. Soy cheese, soy nuts, soy milk, etc., should be avoided and can be substituted with refined soybean oil or coconut aminos. Wheat You might think wheat is only found in bread, cereal, or baked goods. But some unexpected food items also have wheat, like hot dogs, beer, and ice creams. So it would be best to avoid bran, bulger, gluten, farro, and starch. These can be replaced with corn, oats, rice, and barley. Nuts It would be best if you said goodbye to nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, walnuts, and pistachios. Eggs In EoE-associated thyroid treatment, you should avoid the consumption of eggs and food items that contain eggs. Beware the hidden eggs in products like mayo, marshmallows, hollandaise sauce, or foods brushed with egg wash.
10 healthy foods to boost bone health and manage osteoporosis

10 healthy foods to boost bone health and manage osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones in the body, making them brittle. The condition may lead to injuries or fractures even at the slightest fall. Improving bone health is one of the best ways to prevent osteoporosis. One can achieve this by following a treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare professional. But to give the bones an additional nutrition boost, the individual should include the foods listed below in their meal plan. Milk Maintaining and retaining peak bone mass for a long period is essential, especially in people at risk of osteoporosis. One of the ways to ensure the bones receive sufficient calcium is through the intake of dairy products like milk. Adults require at least 700 mg of calcium daily to improve bone strength and structure. However, one should be mindful of the type of dairy products they consume. Consult a nutritional expert if one is confused about whether o opt for full-fat or nonfat dairy products. Nonfat options are usually low on vitamins A and D, which are also required to build strong bones. Therefore, if an individual picks dairy products without fat, they must look for options fortified with fat-soluble vitamins. Walnuts Eating a handful of nuts regularly could introduce calcium to the body. Furthermore, the food is also rich in phosphorus – a vital component of bones. Walnuts are also high in magnesium, which is known to help absorb and retain calcium in the bones. Moreover, the food contains healthy levels of potassium that may also complement bone health and fight osteoporosis. Other types of nuts that someone with osteoporosis could include in their meal plans are pecans, peanuts, and almonds. Chia seeds Eating a handful of chia seeds with daily meals could significantly improve bone health and tackle osteoporosis symptoms. The food is rich in fibers and also contains other health properties such as magnesium and phosphorus.
Simple tips to help manage ADHD

Simple tips to help manage ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is one of the most typical neurodevelopmental disorders in the country. It primarily occurs in childhood, but some adults also develop ADHD. Several studies have been conducted to find out the potential causes of ADHD. Besides genetics, no other definite cause has been discovered, making it difficult to find a concrete treatment for it. Nevertheless, here are a few simple tips that can help manage ADHD: Tip 1: Start treatment without delay Diagnosing ADHD is not simple, as many of the symptoms associated with the condition can be typical of childhood. What makes the detection of ADHD possible is that children suffering from this disorder do not just grow out of their childhood behaviors. Keeping this in mind, it is essential to consult a health professional if any of the following symptoms are observed: Difficulty in staying still Forgetting to complete tasks Not being able to remain organized Having difficulty concentrating or staying focused. To decide whether a patient has ADHD or not, the doctor may follow several steps as it is not possible to diagnose ADHD with a single test. Several other conditions like depression, anxiety, specific learning disabilities, and sleep issues exhibit the same symptoms as ADHD, making it mandatory for health experts to follow specific standard guidelines in the diagnosis. One of the steps prescribed by these standards entails a physical examination, including vision and hearing tests, to slash off other health issues causing ADHD-related symptoms. Besides that, specific checklists are used to rate ADHD symptoms, and adequate information about the patient is collected from their parents, teachers, and sometimes, the patient. Once the patient is diagnosed with ADHD, the doctor prescribes a combination of oral treatment and behavior therapy. Suppose the patient is a preschool-aged child, i.e., 4 to 5 years of age, in that case, the health professional may proceed with behavior therapy, training parents as the first line of treatment.
Easy remedies to whiten teeth at home

Easy remedies to whiten teeth at home

According to a study, about 80 percent of adults aged between 18 to 49 want to have whiter teeth. As we age, our teeth naturally start to turn yellow. However, it could be concerning when it happens before time. Several teeth-whitening products are available, but most contain harmful chemical substances. Thankfully, several homemade remedies are available to restore the natural color of your teeth. But before that, you must ascertain the cause of discoloration. What causes teeth to turn yellow? There are primarily two reasons why your teeth may turn yellow: Thinning of enamel The white color/outer layer protecting the teeth contains enamel, which is also responsible for preserving the deeper tooth structures. Beneath the enamel exists a layer of yellow-brown tissue called dentin. When the enamel of your teeth begins to wear away, the underneath yellow-brown tissue layers are exposed, making your teeth look darker. Some principal reasons for thinning enamel are gum disease, acidic foods, and increasing age. Some individuals have naturally thinner enamel. Stains Specific edibles and beverages like coffee may leave stains on your teeth. These stains can also cause enamel to wear, increasing the yellowish hue. Some other sources of stains include tobacco products and specific medications. Teeth whitening remedies After having ascertained the reason for yellow teeth, the following remedies can be used to restore the natural white hue of your teeth.  Brush with baking soda Few people know that baking soda constitutes one of the principal components of commercial toothpaste. This is because baking soda has some natural whitening properties. It is mildly abrasive and, therefore, capable of scrubbing away the stains on your teeth. Since it is basic, an alkaline environment is created inside your mouth, keeping bacteria at bay. To get better results, brush your teeth with a paste made of one teaspoon of baking powder with two teaspoons of water.
Immunity-boosting Foods for COPD Patients

Immunity-boosting Foods for COPD Patients

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have blocked airways, making breathing difficult. They have to use more energy while breathing than a normal person. Chronic inflammation weakens the immune system reducing its ability to fight the disease. People with COPD need to consume enough calories to produce excess energy for breathing. Following a nutrition-rich meal plan can help you maintain overall health, strengthen your immune system, and improve lung function. Here is a list of immunity-boosting foods for COPD patients. Salmon To boost energy, people with COPD should include protein-rich foods in their meal plans. Salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation in the airways. Omega-3s are also critical for respiratory health and the immune system. According to a study, consuming fish frequently is associated with a decreased risk of COPD. Oranges Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, which is vital for a variety of immune system functions and for preventing lung infections. Citrus fruits like oranges help fight against toxins in the body and lower the rate of damage in the lung tissues. COPD patients also benefit from eating high-potassium foods vital to lung function. Oranges also contain potassium and can help with breathing issues. Avocado According to a study, COPD patients have low levels of antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. Avocado is a delicious fruit and a good source of these vitamins that may benefit the lungs. It also contains high levels of potassium, which is vital for lung function. Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes contain beta carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body and is excellent for your immune system. Consuming sweet potatoes can help relieve COPD symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue. This tuber contains complex carbohydrates considered healthy for patients with lung disease as it provides the body with the energy it needs.
9 Protein-rich Foods to Manage ADHD Symptoms

9 Protein-rich Foods to Manage ADHD Symptoms

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is usually first diagnosed in childhood and can last into adulthood. It is also one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders that start at a young age. Children with the condition may have trouble controlling impulsive behaviors and staying focused. Healthcare experts may indicate a combination of prescriptions and therapies to manage ADHD. Likewise, a healthy meal plan rich in proteins may help manage the condition. Benefits of protein for ADHD management A healthcare professional may recommend a protein-rich meal plan for ADHD for several reasons. These foods help make neurotransmitters, chemicals in brain cells, to communicate with each other. Moreover, protein is also known to prevent spikes in blood sugar, which usually increases hyperactivity and impulsivity, especially in people with ADHD. Therefore, following a meal plan rich in proteins will help keep an individual’s energy and blood sugar levels stable and help improve concentration. Protein-rich foods There are several foods rich in protein, but these are some of the most nutritious options beneficial for those with ADHD. Eggs Foods like eggs are a rich source of protein that most people enjoy during breakfast. It could also be enjoyed at other times of the day. To get the maximum protein from eggs without saturated fat, cook them in small amounts of unsaturated fats like olive oil. They could also boil or poach the food. Salmon Studies show that a small serving of salmon (100 grams) can provide about 25 grams of protein to the body. Therefore, including fish in meal plans may significantly benefit those living with ADHD. To enjoy the fish without losing its nutritional value, one could make grilled salmon with avocado sauce, bake a herb-crusted version with veggies, or combine it with hard-boiled eggs, lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados to make a Cobb salad.
3 effective ways to manage high cholesterol levels

3 effective ways to manage high cholesterol levels

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood that helps the body function. But excess, usually over 240 mg/dl, is harmful. High cholesterol affects nearly 40 percent of our country’s adult population. The leading causes include a meal plan high in saturated fat, a sedentary lifestyle, and stress. The ailment has no symptoms, making it hard to detect without a blood test. Here are the treatments, meal plans, and lifestyle tips for managing cholesterol levels: Treatment options There are two types of cholesterol: good cholesterol (also known as high-density lipoprotein or HDL) and bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein or LDL). High levels of bad cholesterol are more harmful, and most treatments aim to reduce its amount in the blood. Two popular treatment options are: LIVALO® LIVALO ®  is an FDA-approved option for adults. It helps lower bad cholesterol by limiting the liver’s ability to produce it. The treatment works best with a healthy nutrition plan and exercise. The recommended dose for LIVALO ®  is 2 mg daily, but it can go up to a maximum of 4 mg. Patients should consult a doctor to determine the correct dosage. It can have side effects like back pain and constipation. Repatha® Repatha® helps lower bad cholesterol by limiting the ability of a particular protein responsible for regulating the amount of cholesterol. It is administered into the blood and is available in multiple dosing options. One must consult a doctor to understand if Repatha® is suitable for them. Foods to eat and avoid High cholesterol affects the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. So it is vital to include heart-healthy foods in the daily meals. These are mainly those high in fiber and dense in nutrients. Here are a few suitable options to consider: Whole grains Whole grains like oats and barley have soluble fiber that helps reduce the absorption of bad cholesterol in the blood.
11 Superfoods That Help Manage Kidney Disease

11 Superfoods That Help Manage Kidney Disease

The kidneys play a key role in the body by filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. Additionally, they control the production of red blood cells, make vitamins that control growth, and release hormones that regulate blood pressure. These vital functions can be affected by conditions like kidney cysts, stones, chronic kidney disease, and acute kidney injury. Although food cannot cure these conditions, certain superfoods can help manage kidney disease better. Top superfoods Food restrictions may vary, but people with kidney disease are often asked to limit their intake of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Damaged kidneys cannot effectively filter sodium, causing a spike in sodium levels. Experts recommend limiting its intake to less than 2,000 mg per day. Similarly, there is a risk of high potassium levels in the blood when dealing with kidney issues. Experts recommend restricting potassium intake to 2,000 mg per day. Further, impaired functioning of the kidneys may also impede phosphorus filtration in the kidneys. Elevated levels of phosphorus can damage other organs, too, so one should limit their intake to less than 800–1,000 mg per day. Here are a few superfoods low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus one can  add to their meals when dealing with kidney disease: Cabbage Cabbage is a rich source of vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin B6, folic acid, and fiber. It is also loaded with phytochemicals, which can break up free radicals to reduce oxidative stress on the body. The phytochemicals can also help protect against cancer and other diseases. Cabbage is a cheap and easily available cruciferous vegetable that is also low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. It can be incorporated into daily meals in the form of a salad or as appetizers such as cabbage rolls or wraps. Pomegranate Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, fiber, folate, and vitamins K, E, and B6.