Sleep is crucial for good health. It refreshes the body and mind and provides energy to carry out daily tasks. But unfortunately, many people find it hard to get quality sleep, which affects their overall health. Several factors, such as ongoing treatment or underlying health conditions, can affect a person’s sleep. But for some people, an unhealthy pre-sleep routine is the cause. Here are five things to avoid doing before bedtime for sound sleep: Staring at a screen If you stare at your mobile, TV, or laptop screens before bedtime, you might struggle to sleep well. LED screens of digital devices emit blue and white light that lower a particular hormone released by the brain called melatonin. This hormone is required to feel drowsy and fall asleep. When the release of melatonin is reduced, sleep quality is hampered, and you cannot fall asleep quickly. Research says that exposure to any light before bedtime is unhealthy, but blue light has the most harmful effects on sleep. So, avoid it as much as possible before bedtime. Exercising Heavy exercises just before bedtime can harm your sleep quality. When our body prepares for bedtime, the temperature starts to fall, heart rate reduces, and the brain slows down. But exercising interferes with these biological processes. It causes the heartbeat to increase, body temperature to rise, and the brain to become active. These conditions are not conducive to sleeping. If you wish to exercise, do so at least three hours before bedtime. A heavy meal This is another big mistake to be avoided before going to sleep. While light meals and healthy snacks before bedtime is okay, a big meal is a strict no-no. The digestive process slows down once you go to bed. And if your belly is full, it can lead to indigestion, causing problems that could disrupt sleep.

Buying a dishwasher is an excellent choice, as it brings with it many benefits for one’s home. Whether one loves to prepare elaborate meals and doesn’t fancy washing up post-cooking or has a busy family and could do with a hand around the house, the appliance is the perfect time-saving solution. That said, like with any other appliance, a few mistakes, such as the ones mentioned below, can render it useless or reduce its life. 1. Overcrowding the rack Dishwashers can easily clean kitchenware, provided one does not overcrowd it. Too many dishes can cause detergent and water to get lodged in the crevices of the dishwasher. When this happens, the dishes are not going to be cleaned evenly. Spacing out items is the best way to ensure the load is adequately cleaned. 2. Failing to clean the dishwasher’s seal Individuals should pay attention to the lining of the dishwasher’s door. Grime and mold accumulating on the seal can compromise its functionality and leave air gaps. If this happens, one may notice food slime, detergent, water, and other residue slowly creeping out of the gaps, which could be annoying to clean up. It is important to periodically wipe the seal and check for damages to ensure it does not leak and improve the dishwasher’s durability. 3. Washing delicate kitchenware Only some people read the instruction manual that comes with a dishwasher. This manual always has instructions against putting delicate items, such as fine china and crystal. The dishwasher uses high-pressure water and strong detergents to clean dishes. This means that when one loads delicate China and crystal kitchenware, there’s a high possibility of those getting damaged. Instead, one should wash these separately by hand to keep them clean and safe from breakage. 4. Adding too much detergent While detergents help clean the dishes effectively, filling in too much is usually bad.

Menopause is a naturally occurring bodily process that marks the end of the reproductive capabilities in women. It usually leads to fluctuations of hormones in the body and a wide range of symptoms that can affect day-to-day life. While menopause is a natural process, women can follow some helpful tips to ease the signs and symptoms of this process. Read this article further for some helpful tips to manage menopause: Understanding the stages of menopause Menopause is that time in a woman’s life when her menstrual cycles permanently halt without any physiological or biological causes. The changes can be classified into 4 stages: Pre-menopause The menstrual cycle will occur during this period, but it may be regular or irregular. It varies from woman to woman. The reproductive hormones start declining in a woman’s body. There are no visible signs or symptoms of menopause during this period. A woman can still reproduce successfully, though some women may face difficulties. Perimenopause Also called ‘around menopause,’ is visible signs of transition in a woman’s body like irregular periods and hot flashes. On average, the period leading up to perimenopause may last up to 4 years. However, it varies from woman to woman. It may even last for a few months or up to 8 to 10 years. Menopause Menopause enters a woman’s life, usually in her late 40s to 50s. It is when a woman no longer has her menstrual cycle for more than 12 months. The ovaries store eggs and release them into the fallopian tubes. By this time, the ovaries cease releasing eggs and stop producing estrogen hormones. Post-menopause Post-menopause is the after-menopause phase. The woman’s reproductive hormones continue to deplete, and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes may ease in this period. However, in some cases, women continue to experience menopausal symptoms for years (as many as 10 years) after their menopause.

No one can know what a painful affair a sudden onset of migraine pang is other than the person who goes through it. While the migraine triggers differ from person to person, a few culprits are there, which seem to attack everyone indiscriminately. When one can identify their triggers, they are a step closer to effectively managing migraine and avoiding future attacks. Here are six surprising migraine triggers which you may not have been previously aware of: Excessive stress Stress is the most common reason that tends to trigger migraine pangs. According to some studies, stress is a catalyst for 70 percent of migraine attacks in patients. Besides, such studies have revealed a close relationship between daily migraine activity and stress levels. Furthermore, there seems to be a continuous cycle in which the day-to-day stress levels are further loaded with the worry of upcoming migraine attacks. How to manage: One can begin by preparing an exhaustive list of things that seem to bug daily but are pretty mundane and can be dealt with quickly without any undue tension or stress. Once the list is prepared, work on those triggers to reduce their effects on your stress levels. Besides that, try relaxation therapy, yoga, meditation, exercise, biofeedback, and massage to calm your mind and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. These remedies will not completely resolve stress-related issues. However, they will modify the bodily response to stress, so that migraine pangs are not triggered. Lack of a regular sleep schedule The relationship between sleep and migraine is pretty intimate. While everyone needs a good night’s sleep for the renewal and repair of their body and mind, a regular sleep schedule is necessary for migraine patients. Any changes in the sleep pattern can trigger an attack. Yet, an interesting fact about migraine pangs is that most get activated between 4 am and 9 am when one is supposed to sleep but can’t because their miserable brain won’t let them.

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.

Schizophrenia is not a very common mental illness but is a severe mental disorder. People suffering from this disorder are out of touch with reality, which affects their personal and societal relationships. They are generally delusional; they hallucinate and have a disordered behavioral pattern. This mental illness is incurable and stays for a lifetime. It is estimated that 1.5 million people suffer from the disease in the country. These are three ways to manage schizophrenia:   Choose the best treatment Thankfully, there are various treatment options for this illness. Even though it stays on for the entire course of one’s life, with the right treatment, one can live independently and enjoy a good quality of life. To get oneself treated, it is essential to be honest about the condition, thoughts, and feelings with the medical professional.    The right nutritional choices Nutrient-rich, balanced and healthy eating habits is a prerequisite to keeping schizophrenia and other mental illnesses at bay. If one is already suffering from this mental disorder, taking care of what they eat is even more imperative. Avoid red meat, saturated and trans fats, and simple carbohydrates.   Here’s a list of the foods to consume regularly:   Whole grains Whole grains have antioxidant properties. They stop the beta-amyloid proteins from accumulating in the body. Beta-amyloid proteins are majorly responsible for mental disorders and illnesses.   Flaxseed Omega-3 fatty acids are not naturally made by the body. But it is one of the essential nutrients required by the body. Several studies point out that Omega-3 fruitfully slows this disease’s progression and lessens the effect of symptoms.   Spinach People with this mental disorder should keep their folic acid levels high because it helps manage the symptoms of the disease. Spinach, also known as the king of leafy green veggies, has a high folate content and, therefore, is a must-have component of the nutritional regime.   Brazil nuts Various research has found that selenium is an essential mineral required by the body to activate different types of enzymes.

Breast cancer develops in the breast cells. It may affect either or both breasts and can begin in any part of the organ, such as the lobules, ducts, or nipples. The condition can spread to other body parts when the cancerous cells enter the bloodstream or lymph system. This article lists a few early warning signs of breast cancer individuals should look out for to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. Beast itchiness Although itchiness of the breasts may not always imply breast cancer, persistent itching is one of the early signs of the disease. Some people may notice crust formation due to itching. In advanced stages, the itching may progress to the breast tissue, leading to the development of a lump. Lump on the breast Most breast lumps are benign and harmless; however, some may indicate cancer and must not be ignored. Breast lumps caused due to cancer are usually hard, painless, and uneven and differ in shape and texture from the surrounding skin. They are typically fixed to underlying tissue, like the chest wall. Changes in breast texture Another early sign of breast cancer is a marked change in the texture of the breasts. The affected breast may feel tender, warm, or hard to touch and swell up. Nipple inversion or retraction An inverted nipple (turning inward) or retracted nipple (lying flat against the breast) are potential signs of the disease. Such changes usually develop when cancer occurs in the skin around the nipple. Nipple retraction is particularly prominent when individuals raise their arms or lean forward. Dimpled appearance of the breasts Inflammatory breast cancer, a rare type of the condition, may cause the breasts to take on a dimpled appearance, with redness and inflammation occurring over the span of some days. One must undergo a breast examination in case of such signs and symptoms, as inflammatory breast cancer can spread rapidly.

Pain is the brain’s signaling that something is wrong with an organ or function in the body. Everybody experiences some form of pain that can be mild or severe, depending on the underlying cause. No two people experience pain the same way as it develops, varying in intensity and frequency. However, certain types of pain develop as a precursor to known health complications. Here are the ones to never ignore. Intense headache pain Headaches may come and go, but if it persists longer than usual with sharp bouts of pain, check it. Any injury, stroke, or brain aneurysm can trigger intense pain that develops almost immediately and persists without relief. With headaches, one might also experience specific neurological symptoms like confusion, pain on one side, weakness, and even seizures that develop without warning. Chest pain Pain that develops abruptly in the chest without prior progression could indicate a blocked artery or become a precursor to major cardiovascular problems. This pain is accompanied by a pressure or squeezing sensation in the chest that affects breathing. One might also experience dizziness or develop fatigue as the pain worsens. Blood clots in the arteries trigger these symptoms that should not be ignored. Remember, heart attacks do not develop out of the blue. Instead, the symptoms build up unnoticed and overwhelm the body suddenly. Pain that develops as a side effect It is common for many people to experience pain that develops as a side effect of specific prescriptions or vaccinations. The body reacts with the compounds to build up immunity and prevent any subsequent complications from developing later. However, this pain should not persist after a couple of hours and should not be so intense that it affects a person’s daily routine. Immediate consultation is advisable if this reaction does not subside. Pain from injuries or wound Even minor injuries can cause pain that feels normal during the initial progression.

Nearly 80 percent of the body is made of water. Every tissue, cell, and organ requires water for optimal functioning. Moreover, all bodily processes, from digestion to blood circulation, need water. Water is essential to flush out toxins from the body, carry oxygen to every organ, carry essential nutrients to all body parts, and maintain skin and hair health. Needless to say, there can be several side effects from not drinking enough water. Constant headaches One of the most common side effects of not drinking enough water is experiencing persistent headaches. This is because insufficient water causes an imbalance of electrolytes and fluids in the body. The fluid loss causes the tissues in the brain to shrink or contract. As the brain shrinks, it starts to pull away from the skull, putting pressure on the nerves. This is what causes the constant headaches. Constipation When sufficient water is in the body, the colon takes it from the bloodstream to the intestines. This is done to soften and bulk up the stools. However, when you don’t drink sufficient water, there is not enough for the digestion process to complete. As a result, the stool becomes hard, and there are motility issues since the hardened stool cannot pass through the system. So you experience constipation. Unhealthy skin Water provides hydration to your skin cells and plumps them up. This is what gives your skin its natural glow and brightness. Drinking enough water also makes the skin look vibrant. The water helps flush out the toxins. But insufficient water will make the skin lose elasticity and plumpness. This is another obvious side effect of not drinking enough water. The skin becomes dry and flaky. Also, there is inflammation, and the skin is prone to infections and other problems. Constant fatigue and weakness A significant side effect of not drinking enough water is feeling tired and weak.

Treating several respiratory illnesses such as asthma, the common cold, and those due to allergy reactions involve preventing triggers of the symptoms. Most people assume they must take precautions only when they head outside. Although it is essential to mask up and avoid pollutants, smoke, and particulate matter outdoors, it is equally crucial to be wary of potential symptom triggers indoors as well. Here we’ve discussed some hotspots for respiratory problems and how to tackle them. Doorknobs and drawer and appliance handles The handles of drawers, appliances, and doorknobs in any home or office are some of the most touched surfaces, as everyone comes in contact with these. As a result, they are one of the biggest hotspots for respiratory illnesses. They can quickly spread contagious germs such as viruses, bacteria, etc. What you can do Although it is impossible to completely cut off contact with these surfaces, cleaning them with disinfectants is recommended. Electronic keypads and keyboards Electronic keypads and keyboards can have 400 times more germs than an average toilet seat. This is because these are in constant contact with our hands, which are the biggest carriers of germs unless we sanitize them regularly. Moreover, many people drink and eat at their desks as they work. The debris and residue on the keyboards encourage fungi, viruses, and bacteria. What you can do Wiping the keyboards and keypads with disinfectant daily will help prevent them from becoming hotspots for respiratory illnesses. Also, you can use a keyboard cleaner to eliminate any debris that might be stuck between the keys. Shared glassware, dishes, and utensils It is common practice for many people to share glassware, dishes, or even spoons at home or in the office. If you want to avoid a nasty respiratory illness, it is best to avoid this practice altogether, as it is the easiest way for germs to spread and make you sick.

Cancer, irrespective of the type, is a huge health concern around the world. Today, thanks to major improvements in screening technology, doctors are able to prove an early diagnosis of the condition, encouraging prompt and appropriate treatment. However, while keeping an eye out for the condition, one must remember that signs can vary depending on factors such as the size of the tumor, its impact on nearby organs and tissues, and its progression. Common early signs Fatigue Most people usually experience fatigue after exertion. But when dealing with cancer, the fatigue sets in without engaging in intense physical activities. Such exhaustion can hinder day-to-day activities. Just like normal cells in the body, the cancer cells thrive on nutrients to grow, leaving little for other healthy cells. This deprivation can make one feel extremely tired throughout the day. Changes in bowel movements One of the early warning signs of cancer is changes in bowel movement. Further, colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum, causing symptoms like diarrhea and constipation, which can further contribute to fatigue. Such changes can be accompanied by persistent pain in the abdomen and pelvic region. Bloating While bloating can cause discomfort, most people believe it to be harmless. However, it could be a sign of cancer for some. For instance, when affected by ovarian cancer, the body has a buildup of fluid (cancer cells) in the abdomen region. So, if one observes persistent bloating, which does not go away following bowel movement and lasts longer than two weeks, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, if one experiences changes in their appetite, it could be a sign of tumors taking up a lot of space in the abdomen region. Skin-related issues Typically, subtle changes in the skin can indicate issues in overall health, including the development of cancer.

Before you deliver a baby and can take care of your it, you must also take care of yourself and the unborn child. You will find a lot of advice pouring from all corners, but what you must follow or drop is often challenging for a new mother to decide. This guide will discuss tips on improving your physical and eating habits while pregnant and even after delivering a child, such as the following: Treatment options for pregnant women Every pregnant mother must take prenatal vitamins. It helps to start these vitamins early. Doctors recommend starting it the day you hear about your  pregnancy, or even beforehand, if you are planning a family,  because the baby’s neural tube develops into the spinal cord and brain in the first month. Thus, it is vital to add essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and folic acid, to your diet. These vitamins are available at a pharmacy near you without a prescription, but you can also get a doctor’s prescription. Some people feel uneasy after taking these vitamins. So, consume them at night or pair them with a light snack. You can also have a candy or pop a chewing gum afterward. In addition, you must also get a flu shot because the flu can make pregnant women very sick. Moreover, the disease increases the baby’s susceptibility to complications. Hence, get your flu shots at the right time to avoid any severe illness. It can protect your baby even after childbirth. Foods to eat Dairy and dairy byproducts While pregnant, you need more calcium and protein in your foods to cater to your baby’s needs. So, add cheese, milk, and yogurt to your meals. Dairy has two proteins – whey and casein. It meets your body’s calcium, zinc, magnesium, B vitamins, and phosphorous requirements. Whole grains Whole grains have nutrients like folic acid, iron, B vitamin, Vitamin E, selenium, and magnesium.