Eye health is as important as any other functioning organ in the body. However, with the current lifestyle of people that involves prolonged exposure to different gadgets, taking care of the eyes has become more crucial. Also, some diseases can impair vision and cause vision-related problems. To prevent any unforeseen situations, here are some effective ways one can follow to maintain optimal eye health and ensure a lifetime of clear and comfortable vision. 1. Protecting eye from sun rays Extended exposure to harsh sunlight and its ultraviolet (UV) rays elevates the risk of eye conditions such as cataracts. Therefore, it is crucial for one to protect their eyes from harsh sunlight when stepping out. One can either wear sunglasses or UV-blocking contact lenses. Sunglasses are often regarded as a fashion accessory, but their significance extends beyond that. They serve as a crucial shield, safeguarding the eyes from the detrimental impact of the sun’s UV rays. Sunglasses with polarized lenses offer an excellent choice for those seeking enhanced glare reduction. Alternatively, individuals requiring vision correction can explore the option of UV-blocking contact lenses designed to shield their eyes from harmful UV rays. 2. Taking breaks from screen time Staring at the screen for long periods, whether on a phone or a computer, can adversely affect the eyes, leading to dryness and strain. This discomfort may escalate to irritation and itchiness. Hence, it is essential to step aside and take multiple breaks from the screen with the help of the 20-20-20 rule. This is a straightforward yet highly effective strategy to alleviate eye strain and maintain visual well-being. Its concept is simple – for every 20 minutes of screen time, take a break for 20 seconds. During this break, one has to shift their gaze away from the screen and focus on an object located at least 20 feet away.

A dog is a man’s best friend. Now you might have heard this a lot of times, and if you have ever had a pet dog, then you know the joy they bring into the lives of others. However, as often happens with family, you must have been tempted to share your food with your pet dog. Unfortunately, not all human foods are pet-safe. Read on to learn about which foods your dog can eat. 7 human foods that are safe for consumption by dogs It is a known fact that dogs and puppies have different digestive systems compared to humans, making some of the foods you eat unhealthy or even toxic for them. Here are some of the human foods that are safe for dogs: Carrots Vegetables and fruits are known to be incredible sources of nutrition. Carrots are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a snack that your puppy can eat at any time of the day. You can either cook it or even feed it as a raw snack, but remember to cut the vegetable into small pieces to avoid choking hazards. Watermelon Some fruits can probably make your dog incredibly sick, but watermelon is not one of them. This fruit is a rich source of potassium, vitamins C, A, and B6. During the summers, in particular, a few watermelons act as quite the body coolant and are also low in calories. But before you serve them pieces of watermelon as snacks, pick out all the seeds, as they can cause digestive problems and even result in choking. Chicken Chicken is one of the healthiest food for dogs and puppies as it is high in protein. It is also one of the food items that dogs love to eat the most. Although, keep in mind to serve your pet plain chicken without any seasoning or condiments and much fat.

Caring for your cat is not only about grooming them or spending time with them. It also involves providing them with proper nutrition for better health. You will be glad to hear that your pet cat can safely enjoy selected foods from your plate. But remember that cats are carnivorous animals, so 50% of their meals should be animal protein. Here is a list of human foods that are safe and suitable for cats. Apples Apples have fiber, vitamins, and even water to keep cats hydrated. While you can safely feed them apples in moderate quantities, ensure to remove the skin, stem, and seeds, as they contain tiny amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to cats. Meat Cats are carnivores, so you can feed them any type of meat, such as beef, turkey, and chicken. Meat is a good source of protein, necessary for a healthy heart, eyesight, and reproductive system. Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked without sauces or seasonings. The skin and bones should also be removed before feeding. The best methods to cook meat for feline consumption are boiling, grilling, or baking. Fish Most cats love fish because they taste and smell good, but every pet’s preference can differ. If you are confused bout choosing a particular variety of fish, go for tuna and salmon. These are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce inflammation in felines and improve vision and joint health. But serving raw fish to cats is not a good idea; give them cooked or canned fish. Whole grains Cats can safely enjoy whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, barley, cornmeal, and millet. These grains have plant-based proteins and fiber and are easier to digest than processed grains like corn, wheat, and soy. Whole grains benefit a cat’s overall health as long as they are well-cooked and fed in limited quantities.

Certain foods have a significant impact on teeth and gums. Some foods promote healthy gums, while others cause plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can cause tooth decay and enamel erosion and lead to the development of cavities. This causes several complications, such as pain, chewing problems, and tooth abscesses. Here are the top foods that can hamper oral health and must be avoided at all costs. Sour candies It’s no surprise that candies cause tooth damage. However, sour candies contain several different acids that adversely affect your teeth. They are also chewy and sticky, which means they stay around in your mouth for a longer period, causing more damage. If you are keen on having something sweet, opt for a softer piece of chocolate that you can chew and ingest quickly and wash off any remnants from your mouth. Bread Refined carbohydrates such as white bread and white rice can worsen oral health. When we chew on these starches, the saliva converts them into sugar, which can get stuck between the teeth and cause cavities. If you’re looking for carbohydrates, opt for whole wheat bread, as they typically contain fewer added sugars. Carbonated beverages Sugary, carbonated drinks like soda and sports beverages have several negative effects on one’s health, such as cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and more. They also negatively impact the health of the teeth in two distinct manners. Not only are these drinks acidic, but they also promote acid production in the mouth by fostering cavity-causing bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. According to various studies, soda is considered one of the main lifestyle factors behind dental erosion. It is best to avoid drinking carbonated beverages as much as possible. Ice Chewing on hard substances like ice can cause chipped, cracked, or broken teeth or loosened crowns.

An ophthalmologist, or an eye doctor, is a qualified expert who diagnoses and treats conditions to maintain optimal eye health. When one visits an ophthalmologist, they can ask specific questions, either about their particular health concern or general doubts. However, it is quite common to go entirely blank when at the doctor’s and forget half the things that need to be asked. So, here’s a brief checklist of vital questions to ask an ophthalmologist. Which tests will be performed? Whenever you visit a doctor, it is reassuring to know what procedures or tests they will perform or are considering. Most people visiting ophthalmologists are ridden with anxiety about this aspect, so asking this particular question can soothe your nerves and make future visits and eye exams less stressful. While eye doctors perform eye tests, you can also carefully view their instruments and ask why certain tests are being conducted. It is advisable to discuss any concerns about the health condition or probable side effects you may face since this will also help set your mind at ease about the future. Finally, this question is also helpful in making future preparations. So, if a particular test or eye exam will interfere with your eyesight or alertness for a few hours, you can arrange for someone to drive you home from the ophthalmologist’s clinic afterward. How can I tell if my child has a vision problem? Many parents tend to schedule regular check-ups for their children with their family doctor to be updated on any possible health issues, so annual visits to the ophthalmologist should also be the norm. An ophthalmologist can provide a detailed written summary of a child’s eye condition as an answer to this question. Moreover, the doctor will also inform the parents about specific long and short-term vision problems faced by their child, and whether any of those can affect their overall vision or health.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older. It is also meant for individuals with disabilities or end-stage renal disease. So registering for the program could help cover various healthcare costs if and when required. However, one could overlook key details when signing up for Medicare, and the amount they pay may exceed the benefits. So, here are a few common Medicare mistakes to avoid during enrollment: Not signing up on time Delaying signing up for Medicare can slow down the entire process. When approaching age 65, one should enroll during the initial enrollment period (IEP). The seven-month enrollment timeframe includes three months before one turns 65 and three months after. If one does not sign up during the IEP, they will get another opportunity to do so during Medicare’s annual general enrollment period (January 1 to March 31 each year). But given the late registration, the monthly premium for Medicare Part B, which covers doctor visits and other outpatient services, may cost more. So, those who sign up during the general enrollment period may incur a late fee. Not considering out-of-pocket costs Although Medicare usually covers a large portion of healthcare costs for those enrolled in the program, there are certain expenses that one might have to cover themselves. So, it is better to be prepared for these out-of-pocket costs to avoid surprises when healthcare expenses are due. A few elements of Medicare that one should consider include monthly premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Missing the special enrollment period Those aged 65 or older may lose their health insurance coverage when they stop working. The coverage may also lapse when the insurance one has through their spouse concludes. When one finds themselves in this situation, they usually need to sign up for Medicare under the Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which does not involve a penalty.

The cells in our body need glucose from sugar to function at their best. We get this sugar from our food, which provides energy to all cells, including cancer cells. However, since these cells need almost twice as much energy, there could be a link between sugar and cancer. This could cause symptoms of cancer due to too much sugar intake. Therefore, here are some signs to look out for. Understanding the connection between sugar and cancer Excessive sugar consumption does not directly cause cancer, as sugar is not carcinogenic. However, consuming too much sugar in regular meals and snacks can negatively impact overall health. Processed beverages and foods containing added sugars can lead to health problems and increase the risk factor for cancer. Here are other ways sugar can increase cancer risk. By increasing Insulin resistance Consuming excessive sugar can lead to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance results from high levels of insulin, a hormone controlling blood sugar levels. When insulin levels have been high for decades, it can increase the risk of colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. By causing inflammation Excessive intake of dietary sugars has been known to cause health disorders related to a person’s metabolism. This can induce high levels of inflammation in the tissues of the body. This causes chronic inflammation. The combination of insulin resistance and chronic inflammation can add to cancer risk. By leading to oxidative stress The high sugar levels in a person’s blood can increase triglyceride production in the body. Triglycerides are fats that develop from unused calories in the body. An increased level of triglycerides can lead to several health problems, including oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can lead to cell injury and induce gene mutation. Both of these can play a key role in the development of cancer. Common signs of cancer due to excessive sugar While sugar intake does not cause cancer, excessive consumption can lead to several health disorders contributing to the risk.

With heightened stress and emotional strain becoming increasingly common today, the role of emotional support animals in promoting mental well-being has gained significant recognition. These remarkable companions offer many benefits, including offering comfort and support to those facing emotional and psychological challenges or dealing with a disorder. If one is planning to get an emotional support animal, here are a few benefits and things to consider before making a decision: What are emotional support animals? ESAs differ slightly from pets in that they are prescribed by mental health professionals to provide comfort and assistance to those with diagnosed mental health conditions. ESAs have legal recognition and protections under certain laws and are chosen for their ability to offer emotional support, while pets are primarily chosen as companions based on personal preferences. Some popular ESAs are alpacas, dogs, cats, birds, llamas, sheep, goats, horses, rabbits, chickens, and pigs, with dogs being the most common ESAs. To find an emotional support animal, one can start by consulting with a mental health professional or therapist. They can offer guidance regarding the process and determine if one qualifies for getting an ESA. ESAs versus service animals ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks. They are also protected under the Fair Housing Act. Service animals, on the other hand, are trained to perform specific tasks or work directly related to a person’s disability. They have broader legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Does a pet qualify as an ESA? While many pets offer emotional support to their owners, they may automatically qualify as ESAs without the proper documentation and recommendation from a mental health professional. Any breed or animal can be considered an ESA if it meets the legal guidelines. Benefits of having ESAs Introducing purpose and responsibility: An emotional support animal can be beneficial for those struggling with mental health.

In the complex interplay of hormones that regulate bodily functions, the growth hormone plays a crucial role. It’s the conductor that ensures that the body grows and repairs itself, but when it falters, it can lead to a series of health issues. This article explores the subtle yet significant signs of growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Understanding these less-discussed indicators can empower individuals to seek timely health attention and potentially improve their quality of life. Lingering youthful features One of the more distinctive signs of GHD is the preservation of youthful features well into adulthood. While many may see this as a blessing, it often masks an underlying health issue. Adults with GHD may maintain the appearance of a more youthful face, characterized by smoother skin, fewer wrinkles, and even a higher-pitched voice. This phenomenon is due to the slowed progression of facial bone growth, as growth hormone deficiency affects the development of facial bones. Although this may seem desirable, it serves as a valuable early warning sign to consider. Delayed development in children In childhood, GHD manifests as a delay in physical development. Children with GHD often exhibit shorter stature compared to their peers. While this might be initially attributed to genetics, it becomes more apparent when growth lags significantly behind expectations. Alongside this, one might have delayed puberty, resulting in less physical growth and a slower transition into adolescence. Unusually high-pitched voice Another intriguing sign in individuals with GHD is an unusually high-pitched voice. This occurs due to the underdevelopment of the larynx and vocal cords. It is essential to note that while some people naturally have higher-pitched voices, an abrupt and unexplained change in the pitch can be indicative of GHD, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms on this list. Sparse hair growth Sparse or slow hair growth can be an overlooked sign of GHD.

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

Cardiovascular diseases are prevalent in our country. Statistics suggest that one in every five fatalities is associated with heart problems. Therefore, it is essential to adopt an active lifestyle and follow a meal plan that improves heart health. The foods listed below taste great by themselves, and you can also mix them with other ingredients to make them more palatable. But seek a nutritionist’s guidance to avoid the aggravation of underlying health conditions. Oatmeal Most people consider oatmeal a breakfast food, but it is more than just that. Oatmeal can be had any time of the day, especially in the form of granola bars, whenever hunger pangs are bothering. It is rich in soluble fiber, which causes the liver to produce more bile. Bile, in turn, helps lower LDL cholesterol. So a bowl of oatmeal mixed with your favorite foods can be a great step toward a healthy heart. Black bean salsa When the cravings are for something delicious yet healthy, have some black bean salsa. It is packed with soluble fiber that brings down bad cholesterol levels to a healthy range. Add some veggies, corn, and mango for a splash of color and to get all the essential nutrients and vitamins. Have this with baked chips made from whole grains to keep hunger at bay. Nuts and seeds trail mix Make a trail mix with nuts and seeds at home for instant snacking. Nuts and seeds are one of the best foods for a healthy heart. They have healthy fats that lower total cholesterol levels. Walnuts, in particular, are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that lower LDL or bad cholesterol levels and simultaneously increase HDL or good cholesterol levels. Seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, and flax contain B vitamins and vitamin E, which improve overall health. They are also a great source of fibers, nutrients, proteins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy snacking option.

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.