Arthritis is one of the most common health conditions that affects about one out of four adults in the country. It can be both inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Managing rheumatoid arthritis entails slowing the disease’s progress and eliminating the symptoms. Even though not validated through clinical tests, many patients ease their stiffness and pain by eliminating specific foods from their nutritional regime. Here is a list of 7 things one must avoid for managing rheumatoid arthritis: Omega-6 fatty acids and fried foods Notwithstanding the kind of oil used, fried foods are always harmful to a rheumatoid arthritis patient. This is because the presence of trans fats (known to cause inflammation within the body) in fried foods tends to be higher than in broiled or grilled foods. Some typical foods containing trans fats include shortening, margarine, lard, butter, non-dairy creamer, and coconut oil. Besides, specific oils used for frying are especially notable for increasing inflammation due to the presence of Omega-6 fatty acids. Furthermore, the cooking method called frying proves harmful to the patient due to its tendency to release AGEs, a principal contributor to inflammation. Refined sugar and carbohydrates Having a sweet tooth can be agonizing for a Rheumatoid Arthritis patient as their condition will compel them to give up on several sweet-tasting delicacies. Studies show that refined carbohydrates contribute to worsening rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, primarily of two types: refined grains and sugars. Some of the chief sources of refined sugar include processed, baked goods like store-bought cookies, pastries, and donuts. One can avoid having refined sugar by poring over the ingredients list of the concerned food. Glucose, fructose, and dextrose should be avoided at all costs. Besides refined sugars, one needs to monitor the intake of refined grains due to their close link to inflammatory properties. Examples include white rice, white flour, and white bread.

The esophagus or food pipe transfers food to the stomach. However, it can get inflamed due to conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE). In EOE, eosinophils release substances in surrounding tissues that lead to inflammation. This causes the organ to contract and abscesses or ring-like projections to form. EOE can be triggered by acid reflux or food allergies. To manage the condition, here are some signs and symptoms of EOE that one should not ignore: Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) The symptoms of EOE may vary among adults and children, although certain symptoms are common in both. So, here are the signs and symptoms of EOE among children and adults: Symptoms of EOE in adults Studies have shown that EOE in adults usually shows up in the form of strictures, rings, and narrowing of the esophagus. As a result, adults with EOE may have these symptoms: Difficulty swallowing One of the classic symptoms of EOE is difficulty swallowing. The technical term for this symptom is dysphagia. In usual circumstances, one may face dysphagia if they gulp down their food, but the symptom shows up for those with EOE even when they chew their food well. Acid reflux Acid reflux is usually a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a health condition closely related to EOE. But in many cases, those with EOE also experience GERD symptoms like acid reflux, wherein stomach acid flows back to the esophagus and causes irritation. Food impaction As eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) accumulate in the food pipe, food may become stuck in one’s throat when one has EOE. This might lead to choking and severe discomfort. Chest pain Symptoms like dysphagia and food impaction may cause severe chest pain among those with EOE. Although chest pain may also be a symptom of other conditions, it may indicate EOE if one experiences its other signs.

Food prices are on the rise, and eating healthy may seem like a task given the hefty bills after a run to the grocery store or a dinner out with friends. That said, there are definitely ways to eat wholesome and satiating meals without dipping into one’s savings. For this, one needs to plan ahead and shop strategically. Here are a few other tips that can help one eat healthy food on a budget: 1. Buy whole foods Whole foods, or foods that aren’t processed to change their structure, can be surprisingly affordable. For instance, a pack of canned beans costs less than a pack of refried ones. Similarly, a block of cheese is much cheaper than shredded cheese. Consider buying whole fruits and vegetables instead of pre-chopped and packed salads. When considering per-serving costs, whole grains, oats, and brown rice are cheaper than most processed cereals. Additionally, buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is also a great way to incorporate soluble and insoluble fiber into one’s meals. Fruits and vegetables that are available all year tend to be a tad expensive.  Also, picking seasonal produce means that it is packed with nutrients and flavors. Moreover, buying produce by bag is a budget option rather than buying per piece. If one buys more than needed, they can always store it in the refrigerator and use it later. 2. Buy cheaper cuts of meat Most people buy fresh meat, fish, and poultry to add some much-needed fat and protein to their meals. However, fresh meat and fish are incredibly expensive. Fortunately, there are ways to incorporate protein into meals without having to spend too much money. Buyers can opt for specific cuts of meat that are not as pricey as certain others. Chuck steak, pork top sirloin steak, ground meat, poultry, and whole chicken are a few options to choose from.

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term inflammatory disease that triggers inflammation and ulcers in the digestive system. It impacts the colon and rectum’s innermost lining. The symptoms are typically produced over a period rather than unexpectedly. According to the latest studies, about 1 million people have ulcerative colitis, and if left untreated, it can be crippling and cause life-threatening conditions. So, here are 5 tips to prevent and manage ulcerative colitis: Get on with the treatment plan immediately Even though there is no concrete cure for ulcerative colitis, proper treatment can help ease the symptoms and signs of the condition and eventually provide long-term remission. If a patient feels that their bowel habits are consistently changing or if they experience any of the following symptoms and signs, they should immediately consult a doctor: Blood in stool Ongoing diarrhea that is not getting cured by any other types of treatments An unknown fever going on for more than a day or two Abdominal pain Diarrhea that wakes up the patient from sleep The treatments prescribed by the doctor will typically include a combination of oral therapy or surgery. As far as oral treatments are concerned, the doctor may prescribe any of the following types of therapies, depending on the patient’s existing condition: Anti-inflammatory remedies: These are given as the first step in the direction of ulcerative colitis treatment and are suitable for most patients suffering from this condition. They primarily include: 5-aminosalicylates: Can be given orally or as a suppository or enema, depending on which portion has been affected. Immune system suppressors: They, too, ease inflammation. However, they do so by suppressing the very cause of the inflammation, that is, the immune system. Biologics: They attack the proteins generated by the immune system to ease inflammation. The therapies mentioned above are administered and combined with some supportive oral treatments to ease symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively rare, chronic condition that can affect children. It’s characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often in response to allergens or other triggers. While EoE can be challenging to diagnose, recognizing early signs is essential for timely intervention and effective management. Here is a comprehensive guide to better understanding the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children, providing an understanding of this condition for parents and caregivers. What it is Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the esophagus, the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach. In individuals with EoE, the esophageal tissue becomes infiltrated with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in allergic reactions and immune responses. Eosinophils in the esophagus cause inflammation, leading to uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms. While the exact cause of EoE remains unclear, it is believed to be related to genetic factors, environmental triggers, and allergies. Allergens such as pollen, certain foods, or airborne allergens may contribute to the development or exacerbation of EoE. Following are the common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis in children: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) One of the hallmark signs of EoE in children is difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. Children with EoE may find moving food or even liquids down their esophagus challenging, leading to choking or gagging during meals. This can be a distressing experience for both the child and their parents. Parents and guardians must pay close attention if their child consistently struggles while eating, as dysphagia can significantly impact their nutritional intake and overall quality of life. Refusing certain foods Children may develop aversions to specific foods as a coping mechanism for the discomfort associated with EoE. They might refuse to eat certain textures or avoid foods they previously enjoyed. This food avoidance can be a sign that something is wrong and often serves as an early indicator of EoE.

People with an overactive bladder (or OAB) experience a sudden and frequent urge to urinate. About 40% of women and 30% of men in the country deal with this condition, which can be caused by weak pelvic muscles, nerve damage, and excessive caffeine consumption. Those affected may have to urinate more often than usual and can even experience leakage. Here are a few treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and ways to manage OAB: Treatment options Persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor so that they can determine the right course of treatment for OAB. Here are popular options that can be considered based on the doctor’s recommendation: Gemtesa:  It is an FDA-approved prescription treatment for adults affected by OAB. It helps relieve urinary symptoms like urgency, frequency, and even incontinence. Gemtesa is an oral treatment, usually taken with water. Common side effects include diarrhea, headache, or nausea. Myrbetriq:  It can help treat bladder issues like neurogenic detrusor overactivity and overactive bladder. This treatment option relaxes the detrusor, a bladder muscle, making it easier for the bladder to accommodate more urine and reduce OAB symptoms. Doctors recommend oral consumption of  Myrbetriq once a day. Adults can have it with or without food, while children must take it with food. Toviaz:  It prevents frequent bladder contractions and calms the bladder muscles. Additionally, Toviaz reduces symptoms like frequent urination, persistent urge to pee, and incontinence. Doctors may not recommend this option for those who suffer from stomach-related issues and cannot empty the bladder. Allergic reactions are common side effects of this treatment option. Enablex:  It helps treat OAB by relaxing the bladder muscles, improving the ability to control urination, and reducing the likelihood of leakage, frequent bathroom trips, and sudden urge to urinate. Enablex can be taken with or without food once a day.

Acid reflux, commonly referred to as heartburn, is a discomfort that most adults experience on a regular basis. The stomach holds digestive juices that break down the foods and beverages consumed before moving them along the digestive tract. When these juices flow back up the esophagus, the resulting burning sensation and discomfort is called acid reflux. Here are some known causes, triggers, and habits that may inadvertently worsen the condition. Having a large meal The body can only absorb and process a certain amount of nutrients from foods and beverages consumed daily. Overeating only adds extra calories that remain unprocessed and adds to the body mass index, triggering the risk of high body fat, among other complications. Putting pressure on the stomach forces the gastric foods back up the esophagus. This happens as the esophageal sphincter relaxes, opening the valve connecting the end of the esophagus with the top of the stomach. The acidity content of these gastric juices is extremely high, and the upwards regurgitation is what triggers painful heartburn. Instead of having a large meal, doctors advise splitting up the same food into smaller portions and having smaller meals every couple of hours. Wearing clothing that presses against the stomach Wearing tight fitting clothes may be a stylish fashion choice, but this habit can trigger heartburn. Tight pants, jeans, or wearing tight accessories like belts and waistbands press against the stomach. Even if you don’t consume heavy meals and avoid beverages that lead to acidity, this extra pressure from tight fitting clothing pushes the stomach acids upwards. The added pressure also leaves the esophageal sphincter open, resulting in acid reflux. Taking a nap after having food One of the worst and severely underrated triggers of acid reflux is taking a nap immediately after having a small or large meal.

Hemophilia is a health condition in which the patient’s blood fails to clot normally due to the absence of clotting factors like Factor VIII and Factor IX. In most cases, this disease is genetically passed through generations, mainly affecting males. In patients with low clotting factors, spontaneous and injury-related bleeding can have fatal results. According to CDC, 12 people per 100,000 males in the country have hemophilia A. Here are four ways to manage the disease:   Effective trea tment options Even though this condition is non-curable, there are ways to minimize symptoms and keep it under control. The treatment varies as per the type of disease detected in the patient. It is important to remember that the main purpose of the treatment is to reduce bleeding and promote blood clotting.    Hemlibra, Recombinant Factor Concentrates, and Kovaltry  are three different types of treatment advised for patients suffering from this kind of blood disorder.    Hemlibra This is prophylaxis that needs to be prescribed by a practicing health professional. It is given to patients suffering from Hemophilia A, and its main objective is to reduce bleeding in the patient. It is prescribed for newborns, kids of all ages, and adults alike. Recombinant Factor Concentrates These are derived from animal cells that use the human gene to make the factor protein. Recombinant factors 8,9, and 7A have been in use since the 1990s. Doctors advise these concentrates for patients with hemophilia with an inhibitor against Factor 8 or 9.    Kovaltry It is a treatment offered to patients suffering from Hemophilia A and is used to replace clotting Factor VIII. It is recommended for adults and kids. Regular usage as prophylaxis, this treatment can effectively lessen bleeding episodes.   These treatments should not be self-prescribed. You need to speak to a healthcare provider and inform them of all your symptoms before starting these treatments.   Good food habits – What to eat      Increase fruit and vegetable intake Since blood loss is the main problem in hemophilia patients, they are advised to eat lots of green leafy veggies and fruits rich in iron.

Making kids adopt healthy eating habits can be a challenge. You have to ensure the food is not only nutritious but also tasty enough not to be left aside on the plate. But then, most parents run out of ideas over time and eventually become frustrated. So, how do you get your kid to choose the right foods and stay healthy? Here are a few tested strategies to get kids to eat better: Give them the freedom to choose Nobody likes to be compelled to do something, especially high-spirited toddlers and older children constantly trying to assert their autonomy. And the kitchen is not an exception to this principle. Choosing between celery with peanut butter and apple slices may not hold much significance for you; you may think both are healthy and pick either for your child on any given day. However, leaving it to your little one to decide will give them a sense of autonomy, which they seek so much. They may even agree to try new healthy dishes if they feel it is their choice. Let them prepare their plates Allowing children to prepare their own plates is another way of letting them feel their autonomy. It will, in turn, make them enthusiastic about trying new dishes. This may not be easy initially. Your little one may diverge from the established food guidelines of creating a balanced plate with veggies, fruits, proteins, carbs, etc. However, with appropriate guidance, they may get accustomed to the rules and be more willing to include healthy options on their plates, only to exercise their freedom to choose. Introduce new food options According to experts, children learn and get accustomed to the what, how, and when of food habits during the initial five years of their life. So, it is essential to introduce them to as much variety as possible when their taste buds and food habits are still developing.

Asthma is a respiratory condition wherein the airways in the lungs swell up, become narrow, and produce extra mucus, making it difficult to breathe. People affected can experience breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. The disease could be a minor issue for some, while others may have to deal with serious long-term symptoms. Although there is no permanent cure for asthma, here are treatment options, foods to have and avoid, and alternative therapies to manage the symptoms: Treatment options Doctors can recommend the right course of treatment based on the severity of asthma symptoms. Here are a few popular options: Tezepelumab:  It is a popular treatment option, approved by the FDA as a supplementary maintenance remedy for pediatric patients over 12 and adults with asthma. Tezepelumab is an injectable option and the first and only biologic to significantly and consistently reduce severe asthma symptoms in clinical trials. Fasenra:  This is a monoclonal antibody that works on the immune system activity in the body. Fasenra helps control the elevated eosinophil count responsible for severe asthma symptoms. This injection is suitable for children over 12 and adults and can be used with other treatment plans to keep flare-ups in check. Nucala:  This is a monoclonal antibody that also reduces the eosinophils in the body. Doctors recommend this option with other treatment plans to control severe symptoms in children (over 6) and adults. Nucala is administered once every four weeks, and it cannot work as a rescue treatment to deal with sudden attacks or breathing problems. Xolair:  This option helps treat moderate to severe allergic asthma symptoms in children (over 6) and adults. This oral treatment option lowers the allergic response in the body, but it is not a rescue treatment to cure sudden asthma attacks. Zyrtec:  Antihistamines like Zyrtec target allergy-related symptoms like runny nose and watery eyes and can ease breathing difficulty in patients with mild to moderate asthma.

When constipated, one’s bowel movements become difficult and infrequent. People with constipation find it challenging to pass stool and can experience hard stool, bloating, or even nausea. Not having enough fiber or fluids can cause constipation, and factors like pregnancy, traveling, sedentary lifestyle, and stress can also increase the risk of developing this condition. Constipation is usually treatable and can be managed using the following treatment options, foods, and lifestyle changes: Treatment options Doctors can prescribe laxatives and other such options based on the severity of the condition. Here are a few popular options to treat constipation: Linzess:  This increases the fluid content in the intestines, which accelerates the food movement through the gut. It also helps improve stool consistency and eases symptoms like discomfort, abdominal pain, straining, bloating, and feeling of incomplete bowel movements. Doctors recommend taking Linzess orally, at least half an hour before one’s first meal. Movantik:  This option is prescribed to cure the kind of constipation that is a side effect of other treatment options that target non-cancer pain. Movantik curtails the impact of the other prescription treatments on the gut without blocking their effect on pain. This is an oral prescription treatment that should be taken on an empty stomach   an hour before a meal or two hours after one. Amitiza:  This is used to treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or chronic idiopathic constipation. Amitiza can provide relief from symptoms like abdominal discomfort and bloating. It may also reduce the need to strain, improve stool texture, and lower the feeling of not completely emptying oneself. Duphalac:  This laxative is a type of sugar that can increase your frequency of bowel movements, can soften the stool, and improve stool water content. Duphalac can be taken once a day as a solution using its syrup or powder.

Around one in seven individuals worldwide suffer from migraine. It is a severe headache that affects one side of the head, usually accompanied by nausea and vomiting. While migraine can be caused due to several reasons, increased sensitivity to smells, or osmophobia, is a prevalent trigger. It is not clear why some are sensitive to specific smells and develop headaches. Below are a few odors that can trigger migraines and ways to manage the condition: Which odors can trigger migraines? Smells are just as powerful a trigger for migraine as sleep deprivation. The most prevalent smells that can lead to migraine are gasoline, car exhaust, perfumes, pesticides, asphalt, nail polish, cooking steam, and detergents. However, it can take over 15 minutes for a person to develop symptoms after exposure to a problematic odor.  Why do smells trigger migraines? As mentioned, hypersensitivity to these smells is the cause of the problem. Experts suggest that increased sensitivity may be linked to a smaller olfactory bulb, a brain receptor responsible for processing odors. Studies show that people with migraines have a relatively tinier olfactory bulb than others.  How to manage migraines? Migraines caused due to osmophobia can be extremely painful and unpleasant. Many individuals report feeling disgusted by the smell of food being cooked and repelled by raw food. But thankfully, the condition can be managed effectively by following a few tips: Choose healthy foods A few foods can help manage the symptoms of a migraine. These include: Bananas This fruit   can be a go-to pick for those who experience frequent episodes of migraines. Bananas boost energy levels, help reduce pain, and provide several other benefits. They are rich in magnesium, B vitamins, and potassium, essential for fighting headaches.  Watermelon This fruit consists of 92 percent water. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods with high water content can help stay hydrated.