The eyes are extremely delicate organs that must remain healthy at all times, as once injured, they cannot regenerate or repair. The body requires several vitamins and minerals to maintain clear eyesight and good eye health. So, it is crucial to make better food and lifestyle-related choices to maintain sharp eyesight. While one can choose supplements to avoid nutrient deficiency, vitamin-rich foods are excellent, natural ways to ensure healthy eyes. Vitamin A Vitamin A, or retinol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be found in two different forms in foods: provitamin A carotenoids and preformed vitamin A. Carotenoids are found in green leafy vegetables, orange and yellow vegetables, tomatoes, and fish oils. Milk and meat products such as liver and fish are excellent sources of preformed vitamin A. This vitamin is an essential component of rhodopsin, a protein in the retina that aids in night vision. Additionally, vitamin A helps in protecting and preserving a clear cornea, the transparent outer surface of the eye. It also protects the eyes against many eye diseases. Studies have shown that maintaining an adequate level of vitamin A in the body can help minimize the chances of developing juvenile blindness and cataract. According to anecdotal evidence, the nutrient appears to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  If one is experiencing a persistent deficiency of vitamin A, their tear ducts may dry up. This can lead to the development of irreversible blindness when the cornea eventually weakens. Lubricating eye drops containing vitamin A can help treat dry eye syndrome. Vitamin A deficiency is uncommon, but if left untreated, it can cause xerophthalmia—a serious degenerative eye condition that initially develops as night blindness. Vitamin C Vitamin C, a potent anti-oxidant, helps lower oxidative stress in the eyes. The eyes are more vulnerable to free radical damage as more oxygen gets converted into active radicals here.

Cruise vacations are becoming increasingly popular, with several cruise lines entering the business. Established names in this industry, like Silversea Cruises, offer exciting European packages to exotic destinations in the continent, which are excellent for unwinding with friends and family. But unfortunately, many travelers make mistakes that prevent them from enjoying their time aboard. Here are a few mistakes to avoid, whether you’re a first-timer on a cruise or someone who enjoys voyages often. Staying inside the cabin all day Vacation cruises host plenty of entertainment and adventurous activities throughout the day. For instance, you may find fitness centers, spas, game areas, and cooking demonstrations by experienced chefs. Some ships organize sports like table tennis, shuffleboard, and water volleyball. There may also be a play or a movie screening in the ship’s theaters for evening fun. Participating in these onboard activities will make your holiday more memorable than staying in the cabin. So, read the daily event schedule on the cruise line’s app and plan your time accordingly. Some popular activities may require a prior reservation as they get booked quickly. Not exploring other food options A common mistake most passengers make is not exploring the different eateries on the ship. Cruises are not limited to the traditional buffet. A bit of research will help you find other casual dining alternatives. For instance, you may find a café, burger joint, burrito shop, or pool grill for a peaceful dining experience. Most ships have dining rooms where you can go dressed up in smart casuals and enjoy the food, which is much better than the buffet. Some also host special dining events like a meal with the chef or specialty food tasting. While such activities usually cost extra, they’re worth every penny. So, skip the buffet, especially on the embarkation day, when you’ll find yourself waiting in long lines and searching for an empty table.

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

People with arthritis may suffer from a range of diseases or pains in the joints of their bodies. The pain caused by the condition can also be debilitating, which may force most individuals to refrain from carrying out indoor or outdoor tasks. Besides the treatments, one can eat certain foods that may help manage or improve the symptoms of arthritis. They can also blend these nutritious options to create healthy smoothies and make their meal enjoyable. Turmeric-infused smoothie Turmeric is traditionally used in several foods to manage health conditions. As for arthritis, the spice contains a substance known as curcumin that may help curb the effects of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, including pain and inflammation in the joints. To make a turmeric-infused smoothie, one will need a handful of kale or spinach, ½ cup of frozen pineapple chunks, one teaspoon of turmeric, and a quarter spoonful of ginger. They need to blend these ingredients with a pinch of black pepper, a spoon of chia seeds, and one cup of low-fat milk or almond milk. Pineapple smoothie An individual with arthritis may benefit from eating pineapples because of their pain-reducing enzymes like bromelain. All one requires to turn the fruit into a healthy smoothie are two celery ribs, the head of romaine lettuce, some coriander, a thumb-sized piece of ginger, and half a pineapple. The individual must pulse the ingredients in a blender and gradually top it with water until it achieves a consistency of their liking. Drinking a pineapple-based smoothie may help tackle the symptoms of arthritis, including pain and inflammation. Blueberry kale smoothie While kale contains healthy properties to manage the symptoms of arthritis, not everyone might enjoy eating the leafy green during meals. So to help make the dish more interesting, one could combine it with blueberries to create a healthy and delicious smoothie.

Children lead an active lifestyle. So naturally, they work up an appetite and crave foods to satiate these hunger pangs. But you wouldn’t want your children to eat too much of foods that are excessive in added sugar, vegetable oil, and preservatives and trigger their allergies. To avoid this, you can pack healthy lunches that include the following wholesome and allergy-free snacks that they will love to enjoy during breaks. Popcorn Kids can munch on this tasty, filling, and allergy-free snack all day long. Popcorn is low in calories and rich in nutrients that are easily absorbed by the body. It is a whole grain, so the corn kernels are filled with fiber that helps curb hunger pangs and keeps kids satiated throughout the day. Baked nachos Baked nachos are gluten-free and contain essential fibers, and are delicious snacks that kids can munch on. You can even make some homemade salsa dips with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and lime. You can also whip up some fresh guacamole with avocados to pair it with nachos. Homemade fries Instead of potato fries, why not make sweet potato fries that are healthier and allergy-free? You can even use an air fryer or bake the chips in the oven to make them oil-free and retain nutrients. The best part is that these chips also have a good shelf life, so you can bake a big batch and hand out the snacks every other day. Pretzels Pretzels are absolutely popular among kids. You can make the baked kind, as a little indulgence never hurts anyone. You can even consider store-bought options for packing a school snack. Pita chips Kids who are not allergic to gluten can enjoy some delicious pita chips bought from the supermarket. You can even make some homemade dips and condiments that go well with these chips for a hassle-free snack option.

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.

A strong and complete set of teeth is necessary for good overall oral health. Unfortunately, dental problems can occur, leading to tooth loss. When that happens, it’s essential to consider tooth replacement options to ensure one can continue to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental implants are one of the most sought-after choices for restoring missing teeth. Below are a few noteworthy signs one may need to get dental implants. Missing teeth Missing teeth is the most apparent sign one may need dental implants. Dental implants can be a viable solution, whether one has lost a single tooth or multiple due to injury, decay, or other reasons. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, they offer a permanent and stable replacement for missing teeth. Difficulty chewing People who find it increasingly challenging to chew food properly due to missing teeth or teeth that are severely damaged can consider dental implants. The implants can greatly improve one’s ability to eat comfortably and support the process of digestion. When one’s teeth are missing or compromised, it can lead to limitations regarding what one can or cannot eat, impacting overall health. Dental implants provide a robust and durable foundation for chewing, allowing one to enjoy a wide range of foods without any room for discomfort. Speech difficulties Missing teeth can affect speech, causing pronunciation and clarity problems. This is particularly noticeable when individuals lose their front teeth. In such cases, dental implants can restore one’s ability to speak clearly and confidently. Plus, they provide stability and support for the surrounding teeth and tissues. Sunken facial appearance Tooth loss can change a person’s facial appearance, causing a sunken or aged look. It happens because the jawbone gradually deteriorates when teeth are missing. Dental implants can help stop this bone loss by stimulating the jawbone. This way, individuals can preserve their facial structure and maintain a youthful appearance.

Cruising the high seas is a sought-after attraction for many travelers, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. While cruise ships are known for their luxurious amenities and all-inclusive packages, passengers must abide by certain rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. These restrictions extend to carrying certain items on the ship. While some might seem obvious, there are several items that one may not know are forbidden on ships. 1. Irons and steamers Wrinkled clothes might be a pet peeve for many, but cruise ships don’t allow irons or steamers in cabins. This is mainly to avoid any items that can lead to fire hazards. One can instead carry wrinkle-release products for a quick fix. Many ships also offer laundry services to keep one’s attire wrinkle-free, but it’s best to check beforehand with the cruise ship about this particular service. 2. Household appliances Like clothing irons and steamers, coffee makers, kettles, toasters, hot plates, and other household appliances that generate heat are considered to pose a fire risk and are not allowed aboard. That said, a hair dryer, curling iron, straightener, or portable electric fan are some things that are allowed. 3. Electric blankets Electric blankets may be confiscated during embarkation since they could compromise safety protocols, and cruise lines maintain strict fire prevention measures to protect passengers and crew. 4. Power strips or surge-protected power bars Surge-protected power bars are electric devices that safeguard one’s electronics from voltage spikes and surges. These power bars feature built-in surge protection technology that controls potential electrical damage. However, these devices are not allowed on cruise ships because they may overload the ship’s electrical circuits or interfere with power distribution, posing a fire risk. The ones carried to the ship are usually either approved by the authorities or are non-surge-protected power bars.

Human bodies rely on a complex network of blood vessels to deliver oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells. This intricate blood circulatory system is crucial to maintaining our health and well-being. However, poor blood flow can impact various aspects of one’s health, and early detection and timely intervention can prevent the issue from getting complicated. Here are some early warning signs and ways to improve blood flow with simple techniques. Dry skin Dry patches on the skin and cracks may emerge when blood circulation is compromised, which also affects the healthy skin’s capacity to regenerate new cells. Cells depleted of oxygen and vital nutrients because of poor circulation are likelier to age earlier than necessary. Additionally, impaired blood flow can cause the skin to look pale or darkened, indicating poor oxygenation. Hair loss Hair follicles depend on the blood to consistently deliver nutrients and oxygen to sustain healthy hair growth. Poor blood circulation to the scalp can deprive the hair follicles of these vital nutrients, weakening the hair and eventually causing hair loss. If one notices excessive hair shedding or a significant decrease in hair thickness, it may be worth investigating the possibility of poor blood circulation. Erectile dysfunction In men, poor blood circulation can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). Erections rely on healthy blood flow to the penile region, enabling the tissues to engorge with blood. Reduced circulation can hinder this process, leading to difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection. ED can be an early warning sign of underlying cardiovascular issues that warrant medical attention. Varicose veins The veins’ valves may weaken or cease to function correctly when blood circulation is compromised, leading to varicose veins. These commonly show up on one’s legs. Look for veins that appear to be bulging or twisted. Varicose veins can cause symptoms in the afflicted locations, including soreness, heaviness, and aching.

Aortic stenosis is a heart condition caused by the narrowing of the aortic valve. The condition may go unnoticed for years before it worsens, so proactive measures may be required for prevention. Understanding its causes, risk factors, and symptoms is pivotal in developing a robust prevention strategy. So here are a few tips that can help fortify heart health. By incorporating these practices, one can significantly lower the risk of developing aortic stenosis. Understand the causes The narrowing of the aortic valve due to aortic stenosis limits the flow of blood through the heart. This may develop due to multiple reasons. Recognizing these factors can help one take proactive steps toward prevention: – Aging and associated natural wear and tear of the aortic valve over time can lead to narrowing. – Accumulation of calcium on the valve can cause it to stiffen and narrow. – Congenital heart problems, i.e., abnormalities in the aortic valve at birth, can lead to aortic stenosis. – Untreated strep throat or scarlet fever can lead to valve damage. – Certain autoimmune disorders and inflammatory conditions can trigger valve inflammation. – Having a two-leaflet valve (bicuspid aortic valve) instead of the normal three can lead to stenosis over time. – Having undergone chest radiation treatment can damage the aortic valve, increasing the risk of valve stenosis. Recognize the risk factors Certain factors heighten the risk of developing aortic stenosis. By addressing the modifiable risk factors, one can significantly lower their chances of developing this serious heart condition. – Chronic hypertension or high blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart, potentially leading to valve damage. – Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup on the valve. – A family history of aortic stenosis may increase the susceptibility of developing the condition. Although this factor cannot be controlled, one can recognize the risk and get regularly screened for the condition.

Did you know that an improper skincare regime can cause more harm than good to your skin? This expansive organ of the body defines our overall look. Following the right skincare regime if you wish to look youthful, energetic, and healthy is of utmost importance. Beautiful and healthy skin gives you confidence and makes you feel great. So, be aware of these five skincare mistakes that may cause premature aging, and stay away from them. Not wearing sunscreen Wearing sunscreen is a significant skincare and beauty tip we usually take for granted. But it has been found that 70% of the signs of aging are from exposure to the sun. So, wearing the right SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is essential to avoid premature aging. And it is recommended for all weathers, whether indoors or outdoors. Moreover, sunblock can help prevent signs of premature aging, such as wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, rough skin, and loss of elasticity. However, do not apply just any sunscreen. Go for sunblock with SPF 30 or more. You will find a sunscreen that is water-based, too, in case you have oily skin. Not getting enough sleep Remember that sleep helps rejuvenate your body and is also necessary for flawless skin. Cutting down on sleep can lead to acne, pale complexion, dullness, inflammation, and dehydrated skin. And all these factors can make you look older than your actual age. Sleep quality directly impacts your skin quality; therefore, not enough sleep can lead to premature signs of aging. Make sure you sleep and wake up at specific times every day. Try and avoid gadgets or heavy meals right before you go to sleep. Make sure the room is dark enough. Hanging an irregular meal plan If you want radiant and smooth skin, use the right skincare products and follow the correct daily regime. But you should also consume the right foods and nutrients.

It’s common for home appliances to malfunction with time, but if the problems start interfering daily, it might be time to upgrade. The Cyber Monday sales from big retailers is going to start soon, and some of the discounts will leave you stunned. So here’s a look at the top Cyber Monday appliance sales from some of the major retailers offered last year, so you know what you can look forward to this year. Food processors Just in time for those holiday meals, GE 12-Cup, a flexible kitchen buddy, was available for just $100. Coffee makers One of the greatest cold brewers is the Primula coffee maker. On Cyber Monday, Walmart was selling it for just $14. Washing machine Expect to save over $100 on Samsung’s high-efficiency front-load washing machine, which provides maximum cleaning power in a compact, closet-depth design. Microwave Whirlpool microwaves have many advantages, including a nonstick CleanRelease inside that makes cleaning simple. Expect to buy it for around 44% off during the holiday shopping season. Dishwasher Samsung’s 24-inch built-in dishwasher features a stainless-steel exterior and interior and a top control that operates at 55 decibels. This washer with multiple functions had a price of $498 on Cyber Monday last year. Oven The Cuisinart oven performs admirably and has a broader temperature range (150°F to 500°F). Last year it was for $118, a discounted price. Air fryer One of the top air fryers is the GoWise. Although not the most straightforward to clean, it gets top scores for no-noise and user-friendly settings. It was offered at a low price last year so keep an eye out for it this year too. Electric dryer The Whirlpool White Electric Dryer, which is $629.99, was available for $559.99 on Cyber Monday last year. Hand Blender The KitchenAid cordless blender was a wonderful Cyber Monday bargain, at Kohl’s.