Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can impact synovial joints and other organs like the eyes, lungs, and heart. The joints in the hands and feet are the most commonly impacted, although they can also affect the knees, hips, and shoulder joints. A meal plan cannot cure it, but appropriate dietary changes can help reduce the inflammation that causes damage to the body. Here’s all you need to know about managing rheumatoid arthritis. Here are a few things you should know about managing rheumatoid arthritis: Seven things to avoid to manage rheumatoid arthritis Along with proper treatment, you should also avoid certain foods to manage rheumatoid arthritis: Red meat Red meat contains high levels of saturated fat that can exacerbate inflammation and lead to obesity. Sugar and refined flour Your blood sugar levels can surge when you consume too many carbohydrates and refined flour. However, you can try gluten-free alternatives because a spike in blood glucose levels can worsen many of your arthritis symptoms. Fatty foods full of omega-6 fatty acids Trans fats can increase the risk of insulin resistance and obesity, a primary risk factor for arthritis. It can increase bad cholesterol in the body and is also responsible for lowering good cholesterol. So, avoid the consumption of unsaturated fatty acids, which are found in packaged food items, margarine, vegetable oils, etc. Corn oil Corn oil contains high quantities of omega-6 fatty acids. So when you plan to consume more omega-3 fatty acids, having an excess of corn oil will cause a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. This will increase arthritis pain and may even lead to limb dysfunction. So, maintaining a balance between the two types of fatty acids is critical to lowering inflammation and ache. Preservatives As a flavor enhancer, MSG is added to many food items.

Women have to go through a transformative phase known as menopause. This is when the body undergoes significant changes due to fluctuations in reproductive hormones, marking the end of fertility. While menopause is a natural and inevitable change, the early signs can vary from one person to another. Recognizing the subtle signs can help one prepare themselves to navigate this phase with ease and get the support and care they need. Irregular periods One of the earliest signs of menopause is the sudden onset of irregular periods. In the early stages of menopause, one can observe that their periods are either becoming increasingly irregular or light. The length of the cycles may also be affected and can get shorter or longer. In some women, the gap between two consecutive periods might be as long as a couple of months. The changes in the production of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are responsible for irregular periods. Hot flashes and night sweats Another common symptom of menopause is the onset of hot flashes and night sweats. The symptoms are characterized as a sudden sensation of intense heat, often accompanied by signs like flushing of the face, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. Night sweats can be considered a type of hot flash that usually occurs when sleeping. These symptoms can disrupt sleep and lead to increased irritability and fatigue. Hot flashes and night sweats are triggered by hormonal changes and can vary in frequency and intensity. Difficulty sleeping Many going through menopause experience disrupted sleep due to hormonal fluctuations. One may find it difficult to fall asleep or may frequently wake up during the night or early morning. This leads to sleep deprivation, inconsistent sleep schedule, poor quality of sleep, and daytime fatigue. Creating a calming bedtime routine, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and creating a sleep-friendly environment can help improve sleep quality.

Excessive sugar intake has far-reaching effects on the body, including the development of diabetic neuropathy. Understanding and recognizing the signs and symptoms of this condition are crucial for early detection and effective management. Exploring the various signs of diabetic neuropathy helps empower one to address them proactively. From tingling and numbness in the extremities to digestive issues, sexual dysfunction, and even cognitive impairment, it is important to delve into each sign in detail. Tingling and numbness in extremities One of the earliest signs of diabetic neuropathy is the sensation of tingling and numbness in the extremities. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves responsible for transmitting sensory signals, resulting in abnormal sensations in the hands, feet, legs, and arms. If one experiences a “pins and needles” feeling or a loss of sensation, monitoring these changes and promptly seeking professional advice is essential. Burning sensation and pain Diabetic neuropathy can also cause persistent burning sensations or pain in the affected areas. The damaged nerves may send faulty signals to the brain, leading to constant feelings of heat or aching discomfort. This pain can be particularly bothersome at night, disrupting sleep and affecting the overall quality of life. Recognizing and addressing these sensations early on is key to managing diabetic neuropathy effectively. Muscle weakness and lack of coordination As diabetic neuropathy progresses, it can impact motor nerves, resulting in muscle weakness and a decline in coordination. Tasks that require fine motor skills, like buttoning a shirt or gripping objects tightly, may become increasingly challenging. Muscle weakness and a loss of balance can hinder mobility. This makes regular physical assessments and targeted exercises to improve strength and coordination even more important. Digestive issues Diabetic neuropathy can affect the nerves that control the digestive system, leading to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and difficulty swallowing can arise due to disrupted nerve signals.

Research suggests that almost 50% of people nationwide are missing at least one tooth. Dental implants are titanium replacements to teeth roots, used to hold false teeth in place. A dental surgeon fixes these implants using a screw-like tool and the artificial tooth is then secured on the implant. Individuals with dental implants should take certain care measures after the implantation. Furthermore, here are some mistakes to avoid after a dental implant procedure. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles Toothbrushes with hard bristles can hurt one’s teeth and gums, as the teeth are sensitive after a dental implant procedure. So, one should use toothbrushes with soft bristles, preferably nylon bristles, to avoid any damage to the implanted teeth. Having foods that are difficult to chew Food items like crackers, chips, nuts, and toasted bread have hard surfaces and can worsen one’s toothache. This is why dentists recommend that after a dental implant procedure, one should have soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, soft breads, porridge, cereals, and tender fruits like bananas. Neglecting basic dental hygiene practices Neglecting oral hygiene can cause dental health issues like tar-tar and cavities, increasing one’s discomfort after a dental implant procedure. Thus, individuals with dental implants should consistently follow dental hygiene practices like brushing two times a day and rinsing their mouth after meals. One may also use a good-quality mouthwash approximately three times a week for optimal oral hygiene. Having excessive sugar Excessive sugar intake is among the leading causes of tooth decay and cavity formation. So, those with dental implants should limit or avoid having foods and beverages containing added sugar, including confectionaries, soft drinks, and instant breakfast cereals. It helps to replace added sugar with natural sugar sources, such as fruits and fresh fruit juices. Not flossing regularly The development of plaque after a dental implant procedure can aggravate one’s discomfort and eventually lead to tooth decay.

Smartwatches have turned into one of the most popular wearable devices in the market. Interestingly, the global smartwatch market is expected to reach 230.30 million units by 2026. These devices come with many features that we can use in our daily lives. However, there are many people who buy and wear smartwatches without learning all of the wearable’s capabilities. To help you, here are five ways to make the best use of a smartwatch. As a fitness tracker Smartwatches have features that are useful for fitness enthusiasts. The watch combines software and hardware to help you track rains, hikes, swims, and more. The applications can track the distance covered, speed, intensity, elevations, and also the time it took to complete the activity. Furthermore, some smartwatches can automatically start tracking workouts based on your movement. Ultimately, a smartwatch may help you improve your overall health. To read important notifications If you’re on the move or running errands at a grocery store, you know how annoying pulling out your smartphone can be. By using a smartwatch, you can overcome this problem. Once connected to the smartphone, you can view all the essential notifications directly on the wearable. You can also check your grocery shopping lists and other quick notes effortlessly. For contactless payments Instead of paying for groceries and other utilities with printed money, we can make contactless payments with our smartphones. This helps keep a track of where and how the money is spent. If you have a capable smartwatch, you can make contactless payments using it with an appropriate payment application. The device can also be used as a tip calculator. For easy communication Communication features are another factors that make buying a smartwatch worth the investment. The wearable can track upcoming events in the office or at home. Furthermore, some smartwatches can also let you read a message and reply to it with a pre-programmed phrase.

Black Friday is not just the time to shop for furniture, electronics, clothes, or gifts for friends and family. You can also save a lot of money on food for your pet cat. Black Friday brings the best deals and discounts on cat foods from various top brands, and you must take full advantage of that. Make this sale extravaganza useful by ensuring your cat gets the best nutrition and taste at a pocket-friendly expenditure. Purina Pro Plan The Purina Pro Plan LiveClear is one of the top cat foods that can be perfect for pets with food allergies and intolerances. It is a kibble that safely and strategically neutralizes Fel D 1 with a key protein from eggs. Fel D 1 is a cat allergen found in their saliva. If you wish to safeguard your little furry friend from allergies, then Amazon, on Black Friday, is giving you the Purina Pro Plan at a great discount. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Nutro Wholesome Essentials is a kibble that can nourish your cat with the nutrients it needs while also being full of flavor and easy to digest. It is made with non-GMO ingredients and is free of all sorts of artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. It is a healthy and tasty meal, and you can expect this item to be available on Amazon on Black Friday at quite a good discount. Tiki Cat Tiki Cat is a brand of canned cat food that is grain-free. Felines can have this option as a full meal or even in small amounts as a snack. It is delicious and nutritious enough to keep your cat healthy. This Black Friday, you might be able to get it for $16.56 instead of $18.48. Wellness Wellness has three ranges for cats, Core, Core Digestive Health, and Complete Health.

Black Friday brings with it a lot of deals and discounts where you can buy loads of things for yourself and your family and friends. However, did you know that on this day you can get great deals on dog foods too? Some of the most nutritious and delicious dog foods will be offered at cheaper rates. So, you can use these sales to stock up on the best food items for your furry friend. Inception Dry Dog Food Inception’s dry dog food is made with 70% animal protein. It has oats and millets that allow your furry friend to stay happy and active all the time. The taste is amazing, and it is free from many kinds of allergy-causing ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy. If your dog is sensitive to some food items, do not worry; this dry dog food is easy to digest. On Black Friday, it might be available at a discounted rate of around $34. Royal Canin Large Adult dry dog food For every large breed pet above the age of five, the Royal Canin size health nutrition dry dog food is the best choice. It has antioxidants that fight the signs of aging and provides long life and vitality to your furry best friend. It has vitamins and minerals that can boost the strength of bones and joints. On Black Friday, you can expect to save around $6 as it could be priced at about $75. Wag Grain-inclusive Dry Dog Food This dry dog food is a good source of calcium and phosphorus. Your dog’s regular intake of this food will result in strong teeth and bones. It also has antioxidants to support the immune system and nutrients that can boost brain function. This pet food might be available on Black Friday at a price of only around $23, which is approximately 12% lower than the actual rate.

Have you ever woken up feeling tired and lethargic despite sleeping for seven to eight hours at night? It could be due to poor sleep quality. Disturbed sleep influences the rest of your day: how you think, your performance at work, and other tasks. The causes of poor sleep are many, including a faulty mattress, distractions in your room, or a heavy dinner. Avoiding the following mistakes before bed can help you sleep better: Staring at a screen Using gadgets close to bedtime is probably the most common mistake in the digital age. The blue light emitted from screens affects the production of a specific hormone responsible for inducing sleep and regulating the circadian rhythm. Apart from the blue light emission, the television or mobile phone sound can be a distraction that keeps you awake. High noise levels create lots of mental stimulation and disturbance, preventing the brain from shutting down. Hence, it is advisable to avoid using phones, televisions, and laptops for at least an hour before bed. Exercising Exercise is among the best solutions for good health, but you must do it at the right time. Physical activity late in the evening or at night hampers sleep patterns by increasing stress and raising body temperature. The only exercise recommended before bedtime is light stretching and simple yoga. These help relieve muscle tension and relax the body and mind, preparing them to drift asleep. You can perform intense exercises in the morning or earlier in the evening. If you have some spare time before sleeping, use it for sitting down and reflecting on the happenings of the day instead of exercising. It will help you fall asleep faster. Making poor food choices A meal with lots of refined carbs and sugar is unsuitable for dinner as it can keep you awake at night.

Feeling hungry frequently is normal for kids since they are growing. However, eating processed foods with added sugars and refined flour is unhealthy and expensive. Besides, you need to ensure that your child receives adequate energy and nutrition to support their physical and mental development. Snack time is one opportunity where you can slip additional nutrients into your child’s meal regime. Here are seven healthy kid snacks you can make without any hassles: Rainbow fruit skewers It is not unknown how vital fruits are for our daily nutrition intake. They are a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals and should be eaten in plenty. If you wish to get your child to develop a habit of eating fruits, these rainbow skewers can be a fun way to do that. They are so colorful and tasty that even your child would like to help you in the preparation. Get a couple of wooden skewers and stuff each of them with fruits. You can use  raspberries,  strawberries,  segments of tangerine,  cubes of peeled mangoes, and  pieces of peeled pineapples. You can also add  peeled kiwi chunks,  red or green grapes, and  blueberries.  After that, arrange them in such a way that they appear vibrant like a rainbow. Once done, serve the skewers on a plate and let your child help themselves. Yogurt with fruits or yogurt popsicles Yogurt is another ideal snack you can offer your child. It is incredibly rich in calcium and protein, which are specifically vital for children in their growing years. While calcium takes care of bone health, proteins look at muscle development. It also contains a bit of healthy fat, making your child feel full for longer. Furthermore, specific yogurts also have good bacteria, making them ideal for your child’s gut health. However, you must know that most yogurts available in the market for kids tend to contain excessive sugar.

A smartwatch in today’s time is not merely a watch but a whole set of gadgets right on one’s wrist. Apple Watch is one of the most popular products in this category, and thanks to their Series 8 and Series 9 features, more and more people are intrigued by these devices. There are some basic functions that are generally well-known by most, but there are also some tips to make the most out of this device. 1. Use the handwashing alert feature This hygiene care does not require a smartwatch, but one can simply use a handwashing timer on the smartwatch to make sure that the 20 seconds are fully utilized. This can be especially useful in keeping health and safety checks and is just a neat hack that not many people may know of. This setting needs to be enabled in the watch under Settings. 2. Control Apple TV Losing the TV remote is a common issue, but with the Apple smartwatch, the device itself turns into a remote control for Apple TV. Both devices need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and then they can easily be accessible to the user. To use this feature, open the Remote app on the watch, add the Apple TV, and then select it on the Apple TV. For pairing the device, a passcode will be needed, which will appear on the watch. Just add that to align the settings. 3. View edited messages In iOS 16, the smartwatch had the update where it could edit the texts sent over iMessage. With the Apple Watch Series 8, users can not only edit, but they can also see the edit history of the messages. To view the edit history, tap and hold “Edited” below the message. This will reveal the edits.

The feet have many pressure points connected to different body parts. So, a foot massage benefits not only the feet but also the body and mind. But, getting a foot massage from a professional may not always be possible. Buying a foot massager can help one receive a relaxing foot massage at home without needing a professional. But one needs to avoid certain common mistakes while using a foot massager: Forgetting to adjust the speed Electric foot massagers come with multiple speed controls, which can be adjusted to tailor the intensity of the massage to one’s liking. However, many individuals overlook these settings and settle for a speed that is generally suitable for them. To fully reap the benefits of a foot massager, it is recommended to take the time to explore all of the speed controls and their varying intensities. Not setting up the massager beforehand One should remember to set up a foot massager properly before using it each time. A foot massager needs a steady, flat surface and a comfortable chair. One should then place their feet in a relaxed position before starting the massage. Directly starting with high-intensity It’s important to give the feet time to adjust to a massager. Starting at a high intensity can be a shock to the muscles. Therefore, it’s recommended to begin with low intensity and gradually increase the intensity as the feet become more accustomed to the massager. Extending the massage’s duration Electric massagers can feel highly relaxing, but extending the massage’s duration or using the massager excessively can cause injuries or muscle soreness. Initially, one should not use an electric massager beyond 10-15 minutes. This duration may be somewhat extended as one gets used to it. In general, shorter massage sessions are more effective. Massaging one part of the foot more During a foot massage session, it is common to experience muscle soreness or tension in one particular area of the foot more than others.

Certain foods that are healthy for us may be beneficial for your cat. As a responsible cat parent, it is essential to be aware of the foods and their sources before slipping a morsel from your plate into your pet’s bowl. Ingestion of toxic foods can adversely affect the cat’s digestive system. Hence, it is advised to consult a vet for recommendations. Here is a list of human foods that are perfectly safe for cats: Meat Cats are carnivores by nature. Most of the commercial cat food in the market contains different meats, an excellent protein source. So, feeding them bits of cooked meats like beef, turkey, or chicken from your lunch plate is entirely alright. Make sure you limit the quantity of the meats. Overeating may cause digestive issues in cats. Salmon Cats love fish, and most vets recommend feeding them fish-based foods. They are a good source of omega-3 and other nutrients. Oily fish like tuna, salmon, or mackerel prove beneficial for their eyesight and joints. However, do not feed your feline straight from the can as they might lick it too aggressively, leading to cuts and bruises on their tongues. It’s best to feed them cooked fish without bones. Cat food brands like Royal Canin, IAMS, and Greenies™ source their ingredients from salmon. Whole grains As grains are loaded with nutrients, they are healthy for humans and cats. Oats have lots of protein, but not many cats like it. Some cats prefer brown rice and coarsely grounded cornmeal too. If you’re not feeding your cat any meat or fish, whole grains can be a good substitute. Smaller grains like wheat berries and millets can also be cooked at home. Cat food brands like IAMS use whole grains like wheat in their products. Eggs Another food item that is safe for cats is eggs.