The eyes help one perceive different stimuli. Therefore, promptly diagnosing eye-related conditions is essential to ensure eye health. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition involving damage to the macula or a part of the retina situated at the back of the eye. Individuals aged 50 and above are particularly susceptible to this condition. This article discusses a few early warning signs of AMD that one shouldn’t ignore. Early warning signs of age-related macular degeneration In general, age-related macular degeneration is classified as dry and wet. Dry AMD involves gradual thinning of the retina caused by age and is characterized by symptoms like blurred vision and progressive vision loss. Wet AMD, considered a more serious condition than dry AMD, results from irregular growth of blood vessels in the retina, causing accumulation of fluid in the back of the eye. Dry AMD may gradually progress to wet AMD with time, particularly if left untreated. Some early warning signs of AMD are as follows: 1. Blurred vision Since AMD involves blood or fluid leakage from blood vessels into the macula, individuals with this disease may experience blurry vision. 2. Wavy appearance of straight lines Age-related macular degeneration significantly affects one’s central vision, which is indispensable in facilitating the recognition of shapes, lines, colors, etc. Consequently, patients with AMD may perceive straight lines as curved or wavy. 3. Problems with recognizing familiar faces As mentioned earlier, AMD hampers one’s central vision, which is also responsible for face recognition. Hence, patients with AMD often find it difficult to recognize familiar people—even their close family members and friends. 4. Issues with sleep Some studies have found an association between the prevalence of AMD and increased rates of sleep issues, such as sleep apnea, insomnia, and generally poorer sleep quality than individuals without the condition.

Many people decorate their homes with indoor plants. But if you are a cat parent, your plant obsession can inadvertently harm your feline friend. Most plants are safe for cats to play and prod, but a few are dangerous. Eating or coming into contact with them can lead to unexpected consequences, mainly because of their poisonous compounds. Below we have listed seven such toxic plants that you must keep out of your cat’s reach: Azaleas A part of the rhododendron family, Azaleas are one of the most beautiful houseplants that can transform your living space. However, the slightest nibbles out of their leaves can cause serious heart problems in your cat. It can sometimes aggravate into a coma and even be fatal. Milder side effects of rhododendron ingestion include vomiting, weakness, diarrhea, drooling, and a lack of apatite. Hydrangeas Hydrangeas are common in flower arrangements in home gardens. Although the plant is toxic to cats because of its chemical content, it is not as dangerous. Only ingesting a large amount of the plant can cause damage. Nevertheless, they pose a threat, so avoid having them around your pets. If you grow hydrangeas in your garden, ensure your cat never wanders near it and keeps a safe distance. Ingestion of the flowers and leaves can lead to vomiting, stomach pain, and weakness. Hyacinths The criteria for selecting plants for your home should be based on more than just their pretty looks. Despite being absolutely beautiful and fragrant, hyacinths remain poisonous to cats. The bulbs of their flowers are full of toxins that can lead to numerous complications if ingested. The symptoms are usually manageable if your cat has nibbled off just a tiny bit. But excessive intake, whether accidental or intentional, can be fatal. Therefore, you must get timely help if you think your cat has been munching on the hyacinth plant.

Many individuals decide to install a garden fence for reasons including privacy and security purposes, such as protecting flowers and crops from animals and complementing the style of their yard. And there is a wide variety of styles that one could choose from across various in-store and online retailers. However, the purchasing process isn’t as simple as it looks. Here are seven key things to consider when choosing a new fence for the garden. Security When selecting a fence for the garden, it is important to determine whether it is needed for security purposes. This could include keeping animals out of the backyard. In this case, one should research the types of animals that may enter the garden in their area and protect the space accordingly. For example, the individual might require a rabbit guard for smaller rodents or a welded-wire fence for larger animals. One may also need to look for fences that can turn the garden into a safe and secure environment for kids and domesticated pets like dogs to play. Privacy Apart from security, it is equally important for one to focus on the privacy of their garden space. If the garden is in the front yard or next to a neighbor’s garden, putting up a fence might come in handy. Moreover, the type of material the user picks will depend on how secluded they intend to make the garden space. For instance, closed-board wood panels help create secluded regions, while black railing fences offer less privacy. One should also bear in mind that a private fence around the garden may obstruct the view into the yard. But if the individual has areas in the backyard they do not want to see, the fences could hide unattractive items, including garbage cans, compost heaps, or electrical boxes. Style Whether one picks fences for security or privacy, the material used is going to affect the style of the garden.

One of the most important considerations to make while creating travel plans is picking the right hotel for your stay. Cramped hotel rooms, undesirable locations, and bad views are some of the factors that could make your trip miserable. Even if booking a room is an easy process, there are still many factors to consider. Some of the common mistakes that might ruin a person’s travel experience are listed below. Non-refundable hotel reservations Hotels with non-refundable options are frequently less expensive than those with refundable costs. While it may appear that you are saving enough money for the vacation by considering a low-cost hotel room, the hotelier benefits because it ensures the room won’t be vacant. Nobody will want the trip they have been planning to get delayed, canceled, or in any other way interfered with. But one cannot deny the possibility of last-minute cancellations of travel plans due to any issue. Therefore, carefully understand the hotel’s cancellation policy while booking a reservation. It is advised to book refundable stays in anticipation of the worst. Many of the hotels in Vegas offer refundable bookings, so if you plan to stay in Nevada, you can consider those hotels. Not using a credit card While bank transfers and debit cards are acceptable options, credit cards may offer multiple advantages when making travel arrangements. Although the offers vary from card to card, many credit cards provide fantastic discounts you may take advantage of while making hotel reservations. For several reasons, booking a hotel room with a debit card is not a good idea. Many of us may not have enough cash in our accounts to cover the cost of the hotel, taxes, and the incidental temporary deposit; in such cases, credit card payment is the safe option. It might save you from high travel costs in several ways, like getting discounts or even free services.

Potassium is the third most abundantly found mineral in the human body. It is an essential microelement needed to maintain normal fluid levels inside the cells. It plays an important role in the function of the heart, nerves, kidneys, and muscles. Additionally, potassium helps regulate muscle contractions and send nerve signals. Low and high potassium levels can adversely affect an individual’s overall health. As the body does not produce potassium, it can be obtained from foods. Health benefits and recommended intake Potassium has several health benefits, and these include:  It is required for managing blood pressure and maintaining good cardiovascular health.  It helps in maintaining bone density and muscle mass. It improves kidney function as it prevents the formation of kidney stones.  The recommended dietary intake (RDI) of potassium is 3500 mg/day to 4700 mg/day for healthy adults. Potassium-containing foods to include in regular meals  Avocados A whole Avocado without its seed and skin can provide you with 16% of the daily RDI of potassium. It contains around 690 mg of the mineral. Avocados are also rich in vitamin K, folate, and healthy fats. They are good for people who have high blood pressure as they are low in sodium. The potassium content in avocados can help replenish the electrolyte lost through sweating. Pomegranate One medium-sized whole fruit gives you 666 mg of potassium, which is 14% of the daily RDI of this mineral. This is 200 mg more than that found in a banana. Pomegranates are rich in protein, folate, and vitamins C and K.  Bananas A medium-sized banana can give you 9% of the recommended daily value of potassium ie; 450 mg. They also contain vitamin C and iron. This is a good combination as vitamin C helps absorb iron in your body. A healthy person can have a maximum of 7 medium-sized bananas a day.

Food gets broken down into glucose by the body to release energy for its functioning. Most meal plans combine fats, proteins, sugars, and other essential carbohydrates vital for healthy growth and organ function. However, people with diabetes should be careful about seemingly healthy foods as it can trigger a spike in their blood glucose levels. Here are different foods that are bad for diabetes and should not be eaten regularly: Various foods that are bad for diabetes patients Fruit juices and other drinks Sugar consumption via beverages can spike insulin levels drastically. Did you know that lots of seemingly healthy store-bought fruit smoothies, sports drinks, bottled juices, and sodas can spike blood sugar levels too? Also, natural fruit juices are not necessarily a healthy option as they are high in fructose. Aside from this, cola, iced tea, lemonade, and other flavored beverages are excessively high in carbs, sugar, and fructose. Their regular consumption can trigger insulin resistance, forcing healthy cells to reject insulin and extract glucose for energy.  Another crucial thing to remember is to avoid any type of spirit if you have diabetes. These contain empty calories and can worsen the condition significantly. Cereals, yogurt, and dried fruits Daily breakfast cereals are fortified with essential vitamins and nutrients that make up for a wholesome meal. However, most store-bought cereals are also high in carbohydrates and added sugars that can trigger an instant spike in blood glucose levels. Another seemingly healthy food, yogurt is an excellent probiotic necessary for the body to maintain and improve gut health. But, flavored yogurts or yogurt with assorted berries can cause more harm than good to diabetes patients. Additionally, while dried fruits can be had in moderation, it is advisable to stay clear of sweetened berries and raisins. Also, avoid consuming canned fruits as they contain preservatives and artificial sweeteners.

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that is triggered by a combination of physical, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. While there is no specific meal plan to treat the condition, certain food changes can help prevent a relapse. Also, schizophrenics are more prone to a variety of physical health issues, which is why it becomes more important to avoid certain foods. Here is a list of foods to be avoided by people with schizophrenia. Foods to be avoided by schizophrenics Gluten Gluten sensitivity can worsen mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Switching to gluten-free meals can help improve the patient’s condition and make them feel better. People with the condition should avoid foods containing gluten such as wheat, rye, and barley. Refined sugar Consuming foods high in sugar can cause blood sugar levels to spike, impacting mood and impairing memory. Cutting out refined sugars found in candies, cakes, and sweetened beverages might help ease the symptoms of schizophrenia. Foods containing artificial sweeteners Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, can lead to high insulin levels. Research also suggests that consuming artificial sweeteners can cause behavioral, cognitive, and neurophysiological problems. High-fat dairy products Dairy products are one of the main culprits for inflammation and can worsen mental health conditions, including schizophrenia. Individuals with the condition should consider limiting their consumption of dairy products like heavy cream, butter, and full-fat cheese. Processed vegetable oils According to a 2018 study, the consumption of processed oils such as soybean, canola, and vegetable oils can cause cognitive decline. The inflammation caused by these lesser-quality oils has been linked to mental health conditions and schizophrenia. Foods high in trans fats Foods such as potato chips, pizza, and fast food are high in trans fats. Their regular consumption causes inflammation, affecting mental health and preventing the production of omega-3 fatty acids that help improve brain function.

The bladder is a critical organ in the urinary tract that stores and releases urine. Any problem in the bladder can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infections. Therefore, it is essential to take good care of this organ. Besides following a healthy lifestyle, adding nutritious foods to the meal plan can contribute to maintaining optimal bladder health. Here are some of the best foods to eat for a healthy bladder. Bananas Bananas are an excellent source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health and lower the risk of constipation. Preventing constipation is necessary because it can cause bladder irritation and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bananas are also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help soothe the bladder. Winter squash Winter squash and other squash varieties like butternut, acorn, and pumpkin are excellent sources of potassium, which is vital for maintaining kidney and bladder health. High-potassium foods can reduce the risk of UTIs and bladder irritation. Winter squash, in particular, is also low in sodium, which can help lower inflammation and prevent the kidneys from working overtime to flush out the extra salt from the body. Yogurt Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help promote a healthy immune system. Studies have shown that probiotics can help prevent UTIs by maintaining a healthy balance of microbes in the urinary tract. Green tea Green tea is a great home remedy for the bladder and overall health. It is a rich source of antioxidants that can prevent oxidative damage in the body. But one must drink this beverage in moderation and choose water for better hydration. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and waste products from the body, keeping the bladder clean and healthy. It also helps prevent UTIs that increase the risk of bladder problems.

A seizure is a sudden increase in electrical activity between brain cells. The phenomenon leads to temporary abnormalities in muscle tone or movements, sensations, behavior, or states of awareness. Seizures usually occur due to a range of health complications, including infections and tumors. The symptoms are controllable with the right prescriptions. However, maintaining a healthy meal plan alongside ongoing treatments can improve brain health and reduce potential health complications that may lead to seizures. Spinach Introducing spinach to daily meals is one of the best ways to improve brain health. The leafy green is abundant in an antioxidant called lutein, which helps cleanse harmful substances from the brain and prevents age-related mental decline. The vegetable is also rich in magnesium, essential for managing muscle and nerve function. Moreover, spinach is rich in B vitamins, vitamin K, vitamin E, folate, and L-tyrosine, which are known to improve memory and mental focus. Blueberries Each type of berry, such as blueberries, packs antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties essential for the brain. The berry contains polyphenols, a group of compounds that include anthocyanins. While the property gives the berry its blue/black hue, it is also associated with improved brain health. Anthocyanins are said to reduce inflammation, help neurons communicate better, and regulate how the brain utilizes glucose for energy. The antioxidant may also help the body fight against age-related cognitive decline. Keeping a tab on all of these factors may help manage seizures and their symptoms. Eggs As far as brain health is concerned, eating egg yolks can significantly help improve its function. The yolk is a rich source of choline, a compound associated with reducing the risk of inflammation. The property may also improve brain function, such as maintaining memory and communication between brain cells. Therefore, the improved activity in brain cells can help lower the risk of seizures.

Schizophrenia is a prevalent mental health condition that affects a person’s cognitive abilities and overall functioning. Its symptoms range from unusual behavior and distorted thinking to severe episodes of delusions, hallucinations, and emotional disconnect. Although the disorder is chronic with no cure, an early diagnosis and timely treatment can help improve the patient’s quality of life. The following are some healthy foods for schizophrenia that can help manage the condition better. Foods rich in omega-3 Healthy fats help counter inflammation that triggers cognitive symptoms and discomforts in people with schizophrenia. Omega-3 is among the most popular healthy fats experts recommend patients include in their meal plans to manage the condition. It helps slow down the progression of the disease to a reasonable extent and prevents oxidative stress from harming healthy brain cells. Fatty fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, black cod, and sardines are the best sources of omega-3, which the brain easily absorbs. Vegetarians looking to increase their intake of omega-3 fatty acids can eat avocados. Besides anti-inflammatory properties, the fruit has fiber, which keeps a person feeling full. This, in turn, curbs unnecessary hunger pangs, lowering the risk of overeating associated with schizophrenia. Assorted nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are also suitable omega-3 sources for vegetarians. However, one should consume fatty acids carefully to boost anti-inflammatory responses and prevent cognitive functions from declining. Healthy probiotics Research studies suggest gut health can affect cognitive functions like thinking and memory. So, people with schizophrenia should consider foods and beverages that help boost healthy gut bacteria and preserve them in the digestive tract. Yogurt is one of the top choices among dairy products that help increase probiotic intake. It is also easy to digest and helps reduce stress. Nutritionists further suggest including fermented pickled vegetables in the meal plan to boost probiotic intake naturally.

Life isn’t fun when one can’t breathe properly. Years of unhealthy lifestyle habits and other factors can seriously affect the functions of the lungs, resulting in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and other respiratory diseases that decrease quality of life. Fortunately, one can manage these diseases and even prevent them altogether by incorporating certain foods into their meal plans. Here are some foods that can boost lung health: Beetroots When it comes to the health of the vital organ, beetroot and even its leaves are among the best foods anyone can have. That’s mainly because both beetroot and beet greens are rich in nitrates, which help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and optimize oxygen uptake. Beet greens are full of nutrients essential to lung functions, such as vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and carotenoid antioxidants. To benefit from beets, add them to salads or make beet juice. Turmeric This yellow spice has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Curcumin, the main component in turmeric, is behind all the health benefits. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial characteristics can make turmeric extremely useful for improving lung function and aiding in conditions such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis. Turmeric can be used in a powdered form and added to smoothies, salads, stir-fry recipes, and curries. Walnuts These nuts are beneficial for the lungs for two main reasons. First, they are an excellent source of magnesium, an important electrolyte that helps to support the lung muscles. Second, walnuts are the best plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are healthy fats with anti-inflammatory effects that can help decrease lung inflammation and make breathing easier. Munching on a handful of walnuts every day can help combat asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions. Tomatoes Tomatoes have copious amounts of lycopene.

Arthritis is a leading cause of joint problems among adults across the country. Such a collection of conditions usually results in pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation in the vital joints. Many trigger factors of arthritis, including certain foods and beverages, could worsen the symptoms to a level of intolerance. Here are eight common food triggers that should be taken in moderation or eliminated to manage arthritis in the long run. Fatty foods Processed foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket contain omega-6 fatty acids, saturated fats, and trans fats. For example, corn, hydrogenated vegetable, safflower, and sunflower oils contain excess amounts of omega 6. These are some of the most commonly used products in daily cooking, meaning unhealthy fats are indirectly taken. Also, meat and dairy products contain saturated fats that could trigger cholesterol problems. And most of the prepared foods and snacks contain traces of trans fats that add flavor to the food but make it very unhealthy to have regularly. Any form of processed fat can trigger inflammation among those suffering from arthritis. It is best to limit or moderate having these foods. Sugar and sugary products Sugar triggers inflammatory pain in people with arthritis, which does not always mean the sugar added to tea, coffee, or when used as a condiment for popular foods. Processed foods, including breakfast cereals, snacks, baked goods, confectioneries, and flavored beverages, are all laced with sugar. Regularly having these foods can imbalance blood glucose levels, which triggers health complications linked to arthritis. Even natural sugar substitutes like honey, agave nectar, and jaggery contain fructose, a form of sugar to limit or have only in moderation. Foods with additives and preservatives Canned goods and long shelf-life products are often laced with preservatives and additives that can trigger flareups among those already suffering from arthritis.  MSG is the most common  additive in hundreds of products and food preparations.