Top 5 foods for puppies

Top 5 foods for puppies

Pets require specially curated foods during their growing stage. Formula foods created for specific breeds target their growth hormones. They are induced with great nutritional value to provide pups with high energy levels. As puppies exert maximum strength in their growing years, they need enough calories to support their energy levels. The formulated pet foods are readily available online and at retail stores. Here is a list of top-rated foods that are ideal for growing puppies: Royal Canin This pet food brand is popular among pet parents and vets alike. The brand is known for creating tailored nutrition for cats and dogs. Royal Canin has strategically crafted its formulas among pets depending on their size, age, breed, and whether it’s an indoor or an outdoor pet. They offer an extensive range of foods for growing puppies that ensure they get the right nutrition to support their growth and development. Royal Canin categorizes its food for puppies in different size variants, including X-small, Mini, Medium, Maxi, and Giant. Natural Balance This brand works with limited ingredients to ensure the best selection and nutrient-rich recipes. Their selective range of nutrients includes one source of animal protein, plant-based proteins, and selected carbohydrates to provide the pets with essential nutrients and growth hormones. Their single-source animal meat selection includes bison or duck, and omega-rich salmon. Natural Balance excels at providing a variety of wet and dry food recipes crafted with balanced nutrition and no added fillers. Their food is categorized into Life Stages – Adult, Puppy, and All Life Stages. Some of their popular recipes from their puppy range include Chicken & Brown Rice, Lamb & Brown Rice, and Reserved Grain Free Duck & Potato. Nutro The brand’s philosophy is to use clean ingredients and craft recipes made with natural, recognizable non-GMO ingredients. The brand uses nutrient-rich foods; every single ingredient is selected to provide essential growth proteins and nutrients.
Follow these eating habits and other tips to manage osteoporosis

Follow these eating habits and other tips to manage osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens the bones, causing them to turn brittle and fracture. About 10 million individuals in the country suffer from osteoporosis. The deterioration of bones occurs in one of five men. In women, the probability is higher with osteoporosis affecting one in three individuals. Doctors prefer various prescription methods to cope with the condition and may also recommend some food tips. Here we have a few tips for managing osteoporosis: Eat foods to improve bone health One way to avoid osteoporosis is by eating foods to improve bone health. Introducing foods rich in calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, and milk, can nourish the body with calcium. The element is a vital nutrient for the formation and maintenance of the skeleton. Foods rich in vitamin C, E, K, and B also help in improving bone health. A few foods rich in these vitamins are collards, kale, spinach, arugula, swiss chard, and beet greens. Adding these edibles to meals can also introduce minerals like magnesium, selenium, and manganese to improve the quality of bones. Furthermore, eating foods abundant in omega-3, such as salmon and eggs, nourish the bones and promote rigidity. The fatty acid can also curb inflammation that may relieve any pain a person feels in their joints. On the flip side, several foods are also bad for bones. These foods can trigger inflammation and also lead to other complications. Sodium is an element that can drastically impact bone health. A few foods rich in sodium include processed meats, deli turkey, hot dogs, and ham. The element is coupled with other nitrates and nitrites to preserve these foods and enhance their flavor. Other foods such as burgers, tacos, and pizzas also contain excessive salts. Drinking caffeinated products like energy drinks, beverages, and coffee are other unhealthy foods that can trigger osteoporosis.
4 useful tips for managing migraines

4 useful tips for managing migraines

Migraine is a prevalent health condition in which a person experiences severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. There may also be other symptoms like sensitivity to light, tiredness, and nausea, which can last a few hours to two days. The ailment is triggered due to stress, certain foods, and other factors. While there is no cure for migraines, the following tips can help manage the symptoms effectively: Use the correct treatment options There are several treatments for migraines, but it is essential to choose the correct one after consulting a doctor. The popular options include: Nurtec ODT Nurtec ODT is an oral treatment that can help alleviate symptoms like headaches, pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light in adults. One can use Nurtec ODT on alternate days or as the doctor recommends. Its side effects include allergic reactions, trouble breathing, and rash. UBRELVY It is a fast-acting treatment option that blocks a specific protein in the body known to induce migraine attacks. One can consult a doctor to determine the dosage according to their condition. The most common side effects of UBRELVY are nausea and sleepiness. Excedrin Excedrin is suitable for temporary relief from migraine headaches. It can also treat aches caused by other factors, such as arthritis and toothaches. The treatment has a combination of compounds that work to relieve the symptoms. The side effects include skin reactions and liver damage. QULIPTA QULIPTA is recommended for patients with more frequent migraine episodes. The treatment helps reduce the frequency of migraines by blocking a particular protein that triggers them. Its most common side effects are fatigue, constipation, and nausea. Follow a healthy meal plan Certain foods help alleviate the symptoms, while others aggravate them. So patients must choose wisely. The best foods are: Walnuts Studies have shown that migraine patients usually have low magnesium levels, a nutrient that can relieve pain.
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.
Top 7 vet-recommended foods for cats

Top 7 vet-recommended foods for cats

When it comes to feeding pets, cat parents may need to exercise even more caution than dog parents. That is because cats require more proteins and minerals. Further, they are “true” or obligate carnivores, meaning they need nutrients found in animal flesh to survive and maintain optimal health. The best way to ensure your pet gets nutritious meals is to choose foods recommended by veterinarians. Here are a few popular options: Smalls Human-Grade Fresh cat food Smalls is a fresh cat food manufacturer that is known for its Human-Grade Fresh product line. Approved by vets, this product line features recipes made with human-grade ingredients and high-quality, fresh animal protein sources, and it comes in two textures, making it ideal for even the fussiest eaters. The brand lets you choose the protein source for your feline from options like Bird (Chicken), Other Bird (Turkey and Chicken Liver), and Cow. Regardless of the formula you pick, you can rest assured knowing that Smalls’ ingredients are USDA-certified, humanely harvested, and sustainably sourced with no bisphenol A (BPA), preservatives, fillers, or unknown ingredients. Blue Buffalo Basics grain-free cat food Looking for a formula with only a few ingredients for your sensitive feline? Check out skin and stomach care grain-free cat food—a limited-ingredient recipe from Blue Buffalo. It contains only one animal protein source (whitefish) along with potatoes and pumpkin to support gentle digestion, making it suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs. The formula has an excellent balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin and contains healthy levels of antioxidants like vitamin E and C to help strengthen your cat’s immune system. This cat food is free from cheap fillers and artificial flavors or preservatives. Tiki Cat Luau wet food If you are looking for high-quality, tasty wet food for your cat, the Tiki Cat Luau Variety Pack grain-free canned food is a great option.
11 foods that may worsen COPD symptoms

11 foods that may worsen COPD symptoms

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a group of conditions that affect the lungs. Emphysema or chronic bronchitis are two of the most common forms of COPD. While it has no absolute cure, certain treatment options can help relieve the symptoms. One of the ways to manage and improve respiratory health is to monitor what one eats and recognize foods that can worsen COPD symptoms. So, here are a few foods to avoid: Sugary foods Foods rich in refined sugar, like baked goods, cookies, candies, sweet rolls, pies, and cobblers, can increase blood sugar levels and bloating. Furthermore, these foods can cause frequent energy crashes, making one feel fatigued. All of these factors can worsen COPD symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness. Salty foods Frozen foods, salted nuts, and takeout meals may have a high amount of salt (sodium). Excessive sodium can make the body retain fluids. For those with COPD, this means an elevated risk of pulmonary hypertension or high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. These issues can lead to other COPD complications as well. So, it is important to monitor daily salt intake by checking food labels and choosing foods with low sodium. Processed meat Cured or processed meat has been associated with several health issues, including the worsening of COPD symptoms. The reason for this is the presence of high amounts of nitrites and sodium used to preserve the meat. However, these preservatives can end up damaging the lung tissues if processed meat is eaten regularly over a long period. In addition, the high amounts of sodium help retain the flavor of the meat while also causing fluid retention in the body. Both of these factors can aggravate COPD symptoms. So, one must avoid processed meats like sausages, bacon, hot dogs, lunch meats, prosciutto, salami, chorizo, and pepperoni.
9 common foods that may worsen eye health

9 common foods that may worsen eye health

The eyes are vital sensory organs that are often considered to be the window to the world. Their health is deeply interconnected with heart and blood vessel health, as they have capillaries that provide oxygen and nutrients to the retina. Over time, with fatty deposits and unhealthy foods, these can become blocked, causing trouble with one’s vision. To maintain eye function and health, one must include healthy foods and avoid those that worsen eye health. Foods to avoid Bread Simple carbohydrates found in foods like bread, white rice, and pasta cause spikes in the glycemic index. Hyperglycemia has been linked to diabetic retinopathy and cataracts. It can also increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), one of the leading causes of vision loss among older people. Foods rich in simple carbohydrates may also increase the risk of high cholesterol and heart disease. This may further cause disturbances in one’s vision. Instead, it is advisable to opt for whole-grain alternatives. Processed meat Processed meats such as hot dogs, bacon, and  deli meat are packed with high amounts of sodium. This can increase the risk of high blood pressure (hypertension) or cholesterol. Over time, it may result in: High blood pressure could cause damage to the retina, affecting one’s vision. This is known as hypertensive retinopathy. Common symptoms include worsening vision, swelling in the retina, lack of blood flow to the retina and optic nerve, and retinal detachment. Hypertension could also lead to the buildup of fluid underneath the retina, known as choroidopathy. In some cases, high blood pressure may also cause blockages in blood flow. This could damage nerves, causing vision loss. It is advisable to limit one’s sodium intake to 2300 milligrams or less per day. Fried foods Fried foods could lead to a rise in bad cholesterol levels (LDL).
8 Foods for Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

8 Foods for Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

For most people, achieving healthy hair, skin, and nails involves visiting a beauty salon for cosmetic treatments. However, it’s crucial to remember that what we put inside our bodies is more important than what we put on them. Thus, consuming nutritious food is vital to provide the body with the necessary minerals, vitamins, and nutrients for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, keeping the body hydrated by drinking enough water is equally crucial. How does food impact hair, skin, and nails? Skin, hair, and nails are made of different elements. For example, the fingernails and hair are made of keratin. So if keratin production is not regulated in the body, a person will have dull hair and brittle nails. In such cases, eating foods rich in biotin is usually recommended. It boosts keratin production in the body and promotes follicle growth. Similarly, Vitamins A, E, and D, iron, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein are also essential for skin, hair, and nail health. When one eats foods rich in healthy fats, the body can lock in enough moisture making them radiant. On the contrary, not eating foods rich in these nutrients can worsen the skin, nails, and hair condition. For example, it has been observed that eating foods that are low in carbohydrates can lead to hair thinning, making them brittle. Also, eating foods with a high glycemic index that causes a spike in blood sugar has been known to trigger skin conditions such as acne. Thus, what one eats affects one’s hair, skin, and nails. Foods for healthy hair, skin, and nails Adding these nutrient-dense foods to the meal plan is not only good for the hair, nails, and skin but also good for one’s overall health. Fatty fish Salmon, halibut, anchovies, herring, mackerel, black cod, sardines, bluefin tuna, whitefish, striped bass, and cobia are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
11 Superfoods to Reduce Cholesterol Levels

11 Superfoods to Reduce Cholesterol Levels

The human body requires cholesterol to process hormones, Vitamin D, and digestion. But letting it accumulate in the body can lead to clogged arteries and health issues like heart attack. High blood pressure, diabetes, chest pain, or experiencing pain while walking are signs that show one’s cholesterol levels are too high. One way to maintain healthy cholesterol levels is to eat nutrient-rich food. Here are some superfoods for maintaining a healthy cholesterol level. Types of cholesterol There are mainly two types of cholesterol; LDL and HDL. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is considered “bad” cholesterol since it clogs the blood vessels with plaque. The HDL (high-density lipoprotein), on the other hand, or the “good” cholesterol, helps carry and eliminate the LDL and regulate bodily functions. One way to ensure the bloodstream has lower levels of harmful LDL is to eat the right foods. Besides food, age can be another factor that can increase one’s cholesterol levels. With age, metabolism slows down, which can impact one’s processing of nutrients. Similarly, a family history of high blood cholesterol can also make one vulnerable to developing the condition. Superfoods to eat to lower cholesterol Oats Being one of the powerhouses of soluble fiber, oats are an excellent breakfast option for those with high cholesterol. Soluble fiber helps to remove cholesterol from the body before it can get absorbed into the bloodstream. Oats are a healthier option than cereals since the latter contains sugar content and artificial flavor. A daily intake of about 10 grams of soluble fiber can reduce LDL levels. A bowl of overnight-soaked oats containing about 4 grams of fiber can also keep one feeling full for longer and avoid overeating. Adding bananas, apples, berries, and other choices of fruits can add to the fiber content. On the other hand, natural sweeteners like honey and dates can make it a delicious and healthy breakfast meal.
4 practical ways to deal with psoriatic arthritis

4 practical ways to deal with psoriatic arthritis

Arthritis commonly affects people with psoriasis, a disease that results in red patches on the skin with silvery scales. Typically, people experience psoriasis years before they get diagnosed with this arthritis. It affects thirty percent of people with psoriasis. However, in some people, joint problems start before psoriasis or during the same time. Swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the key signs of psoriatic arthritis. Here are the prevalent treatment options for psoriatic arthritis: Treatment options These prescriptions are known to work well against the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis: Otezla Otezla is an oral treatment plan that can be taken with or without food, or as the healthcare professional recommends. You should not chew, split, or crush the tablet before consumption. The recommended dosage depends on your response to treatment and condition. To keep side effects at bay, the doctor may start with a low Otezla dosage and gradually increase it. Rinvoq Rinvoq  should be consumed by mouth with or without food, typically once daily or as the doctor recommends. Do not split, chew, or crush the tablet. It can release the entire dosage in one go and heighten the susceptibility to side effects. To get maximum benefit, you must use Rinvoq regularly. The dosage depends on age and response to the treatment. Adalimumab A biological therapy, Adalimumab helps treat psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis, wherein the body produces excessive TNF. Adalimumab blocks TNF, and lowers inflammation. It is not a painkiller but helps with the condition and starts showing results in two to twelve weeks. Doctors do not prescribe it if you have an infection, your arthritis is not active, or you have not tried other treatment options first. Leflunomide Leflunomide helps treat psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis. It takes about four to six weeks for leflunomide to ease the symptoms. However, for the full effect, consume for six months regularly.
12 foods to avoid when dealing with osteoporosis

12 foods to avoid when dealing with osteoporosis

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

13 foods that worsen breathing difficulties

The lungs are one of the most vital organs in the human body. Thus, they must remain in good shape to live a healthy life. However, many foods can unknowingly cause them harm and worsen breathing difficulties, whereas adding the proper nutrients to the food regime can help one breathe easier and minimize symptoms of conditions like asthma and COPD. Here are some of the worst foods for lung health that may worsen breathing difficulties: Processed meat Processed meats such as bacon, ham, hot dogs, sausages, and other lunch meats are often treated with additives and preservatives to add flavor and extend their shelf life. This can harm lung health and function. According to certain research, processed meats have been linked with an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which may cause breathing difficulties. Additionally, processed meats also contain sodium nitrite, a known carcinogen that can increase one’s susceptibility to lung cancer. Vegetable oil Vegetable oils are used in most households to cook food. However, certain oils, such as canola oil, soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, grapeseed oil, and safflower oil, can be dangerous for the lungs. This is because they contain unhealthy fats that can lead to heart disease, increased inflammation, and excessive mucus production, which may impact one’s breathing. Sugar Sugar has been linked to increased mucus production in healthy people as well as those with asthma. In addition, people with asthma were found to have a greater reaction to sugar, suggesting that it may play a role in worsening the condition and causing breathing difficulties. Carbonated beverages Carbonated beverages have been linked to an increased risk of developing asthma in adults and children alike, which can cause breathing problems. The drinks are also loaded with sugar, which may exacerbate mucus production and worsen the strain on one’s lungs.