Pets go on to become a vital part of one’s life. And as responsible pet parents, it is also essential that one dawns the strict parent mask and learn to say no to sharing food off of our plate. Sometimes one can go on to share a bite or two from their plates. However, certain human foods can be extremely harmful to dogs. Therefore, it is important to check the food items that are given to them. Chocolate A sweet temptation turned toxic. Chocolate is a heavenly indulgence for humans but a dangerous poison for dogs. This delectable treat contains theobromine, a stimulant that is usually considered a healthy outcome from this indulgence. However, as dogs metabolize theobromine differently and more slowly than humans, its presence for prolonged periods in excessive quantity can cause toxicity. This can result in symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, seizures, and even death. It’s important to note that the darker chocolate, the higher the levels of theobromine it contains. So, keep those chocolate bars, cocoa powder, and even chocolate-flavored desserts securely out of your pet’s reach. Onions and garlic Onions and garlic are crucial to add a burst of flavor to our culinary creations. However, they pose serious health risks to our dogs. Both onions and garlic contain compounds called thiosulphates that possess the ability to damage a dog’s red blood cells causing hemolytic anemia. Symptoms associated with this condition may include weakness, pale gums, and rapid breathing. Whether cooked, raw or in powdered form, onions and garlic should be strictly off-limits for any size or breed of dog. Be cautious of foods that often contain these ingredients, such as onion soup mix, garlic powder, or dishes seasoned with generous flavor enhancers. Grapes and raisins These seemingly harmless fruits pack a hidden punch for dogs’ health.

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited health condition in which the red blood cells of an individual are crescent or sickle-shaped. These cells block blood flow to various body parts, depriving them of essential nutrients and oxygen. If not addressed, sickle cell anemia can cause damaged organs and nerves. To avoid this outcome, everyone should be aware of some common early warning signs of sickle cell anemia. They are: Yellowish hue on the skin People with sickle cell disease often develop jaundice, a condition in which their eyes and skin turn yellow. This happens because the sickle cells’ lifespans are shorter than normal red blood cells and die out faster than one’s liver can filter them out. The yellow color stems from the build-up of bilirubin, a yellowish compound that the dead cells build up inside the body, causing jaundice. The yellowing of a person’s eyes and skin are early red flags of sickle cell anemia. As this health condition is inherited, people who experience this symptom must visit a healthcare professional immediately, especially if someone in their lineage has the disease. Frequent infections Sickle cells tend to damage the spleen, an important organ for protection against specific germs and infections. Because of this, people with sickle cell anemia (in its early stages) frequently suffer from a wide array of infections. Individuals who have damaged spleens because of sickle cell anemia tend to suffer from infections caused by bacteria such as Meningococcus, Pneumococcus, Hemophilus influenza type B, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma pneumonia. These bacteria cause illnesses such as lung infection, blood infection, bone infection, and infection of the brain and spinal cord covering. Frequent episodes of pain Sickle cell anemia brings frequent and periodic pain crises, a medical term indicative of extreme pain. As specified earlier, the abnormal, sickle-shaped red blood cells obstruct blood flow.

Long-term exposure to daily-use cleaners, dishwashing soaps, air fresheners, and other aerosol products harms lung health, mainly because these products contain irritants and volatile organic compounds that cause allergies in the lungs. There is a potential risk of lung disease, asthma, MAC disease, and common chronic obstructive pulmonary disease developing due to long-term exposure. So, it’s crucial to check the label of the following household items before buying them and practice caution while using them. Air fresheners Room and air fresheners are not just used in homes but also in offices, malls, and many other public places, which means one can be continually exposed to the product in and outside their living space. While the purpose of air fresheners is to keep odor at bay, several ingredients in the air freshener can cause harm to health. Fresheners are known to have volatile organic compounds and release harmful gasses in the air that are eventually inhaled by people in the room, increasing their risk of developing respiratory issues. Some of the known chemicals in such products include formaldehyde, benzene, and phthalates which can cause issues like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing when inhaled. Here is a list of ingredients that one will usually find in air fresheners and a look at how they can potentially harm the lungs: Solvents: They contain chemicals like glycol and ethanol used for diluting the other ingredients in the air freshener can. When these chemicals are inhaled, they cause irritation in the lungs. Aldehydes: This is a compound that develops with the natural chemical process taking place inside the bottle as the ingredients keep mixing together over time. This compound, when inhaled, can also be responsible for causing not just irritation but also cancer. Propellants: The ingredient is responsible for creating the mist when an air freshener is sprayed.

Anemia is a prevalent health condition that develops when the body does not have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry sufficient oxygen to the tissues. A common cause of this condition is a deficiency of iron, which can cause issues such as weakness, fatigue, paleness, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Here, in addition to seeking treatment for these symptoms, making better food choices can help in managing anemia.  Nutrition and anemia When dealing with anemia, it is crucial to choose foods rich in iron, as iron helps in the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells, thereby helping manage the condition. In addition to iron sources, one should opt for foods that help in the absorption of iron to maximize the benefits of this vital nutrient. Here, it is important for one to understand the difference between the two types of food-derived iron—heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron is commonly found in animal products, while non-heme iron is present in plant-based foods. Although both types contribute to increasing overall iron levels, optimizing each type’s absorption through a well-balanced meal plan is key to combating anemia and managing overall health. Best foods The following are a few common foods that one must consider adding to daily meals when dealing with anemia: 1. Fruits with vitamin C Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for managing anemia, as it helps the body absorb iron. Some of the best sources of this vitamin are citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, and lemons. Additionally, tomatoes, kiwis, and strawberries are excellent vitamin C-rich options to add to daily meals. These fruits can be eaten as-is or in the form of juices to reap their benefits. 2. Iron-rich fruits To increase the intake of iron, one can add certain fruits like apricots, watermelons, figs, and dates, among others, to their daily meals.

For the body to function optimally, it is vital to have a stable blood count and good blood circulation. Blood count refers to the total amount of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets in the blood. Of these, the count of the RBCs and platelets should not drop below the normal range. A low RBC count can cause anemia, while a low platelet count can result in internal bleeding. Foods that help improve blood count A natural way to boost blood count is to include certain beneficial foods in the meal plan. The following foods help in raising and maintaining RBC and platelet numbers and preventing complications: Red meat Red meats like beef, poultry, and liver are rich in iron, an essential element for producing RBCs. These foods also boost hemoglobin levels in the blood, which are crucial in supplying oxygen throughout the body. Spinach This green leafy vegetable is a good source of folic acid (vitamin B9) and iron, which are vital for maintaining RBC levels. Spinach also helps increase platelet count to some extent. Dairy products Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can help stabilize blood count. They contain vitamin B12, which is critical for creating RBCs and platelets in the blood. This vitamin is also essential for the cognitive development and maturation of children. Sweet potato Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A, which is required for better absorption of iron into the blood. So, it is safe to say that vitamin A and iron work together to promote blood count. Black-eyed peas Black-eyed peas are packed with folic acid, a form of folate. Folate is essential for the multiplication of cells in the body. In other words, it helps increase RBC and platelet count. Unsurprisingly, anemia is linked to low folic acid levels in the body.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes swelling and inflammation of the airways. It is estimated that more than 339 million people worldwide suffer from this disease. It affects people of all age groups, and genders. However, it is more common in adult women than in men. Asthma has no specific underlying cause, but various allergens like pollen, dust, mold and even perfume can trigger asthma. Read on to learn more about the condition. What is uncontrolled asthma? Uncontrolled asthma is when affected individuals have persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life, even when they are on regular medication. It is estimated that over 60% of adults who are asthmatic suffer from uncontrolled asthma.  Causes of uncontrolled asthma Stress People may experience asthma attacks due to excessive stress and strong unpleasant emotions like unhappiness or crying. One must try to reduce one’s anxiety and stress. Underlying health condition Some respiratory health conditions like sleep apnea that block the upper airway while sleeping can lead to an asthma flare-up. Environmental allergies could also worsen asthma attacks. Weather change Moving from drier to humid air or warmer to colder air might cause asthma attacks. This condition can be brought on by minor weather changes or leaving a controlled environment.  Looking at the global statistics, the prevalence of asthma is observed more in the country. The below-mentioned cities were ranked based on parameters like asthma prevalence, asthma-related emergency room visits, and asthma-related deaths. Here are the top five cities in the country with the highest number of asthma cases: Detroit, Michigan Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and is the center of the automobile industry in the country. The metropolitan area is densely populated with 4.3 million people. The atmosphere of Detroit has high levels of pollen and particulate matter from the industrial facilities and power plants that run on coal.

Quality sleep is important for maintaining one’s overall health. Good sleep can reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses and boost immunity. The general recommendation for healthy adults is between 7 to 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep. However, many people may struggle to achieve this. This can result from several lifestyle factors impacting sleep, and food is one of them. Check out these ten surprising foods that can enhance one’s sleep quality. Almonds Almonds are a healthy source of phosphorus, riboflavin, magnesium, and manganese. Regular consumption of almonds has been associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases such as type-2 diabetes and heart conditions due to their fiber, antioxidant, and monounsaturated (healthy) fat content. Almonds are also a source of melatonin, which helps regulate the internal body clock and signals the body to prepare for sleep. Although there aren’t detailed studies available linking almonds with sleep, their melatonin and magnesium content is generally attributed to improved sleep quality. Turkey Lean white meats such as chicken and turkey contain tryptophan, an amino acid that is found in certain proteins. Tryptophan helps the body produce serotonin, which can help stabilize one’s mood and sleep cycle. Serotonin is also vital for producing melatonin, an important hormone for regulating one’s sleep. According to certain studies, eating foods rich in tryptophan can help increase sleep efficiency and reduce sleep fragmentation for people aged 55-75. Those looking for vegan sources of tryptophan can turn to quinoa, kidney beans, chickpeas, and bananas. White rice White rice, although low in fiber and other nutrients compared to brown rice, is still a good source of folate, thiamine, manganese, and carbohydrates. It is a common staple in many households and cultures and ranks significantly high on the glycemic index. Due to its ability to raise blood glucose levels, white rice can help improve sleep quality when consumed at least one hour before bed.

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

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

Most people have probably given in to using hair products, such as gels, dyes, and other items loaded with harmful chemicals. Many others might be dealing with natural conditions that damage the hair structure. It would result in conditions including the loss of hair in patches, split ends, and dandruff. But it’s not too late to get things back on track. Here are eight tips to improve and maintain the condition of your hair- Bathe with lukewarm water The scalp produces certain oils that serve as natural conditioners for the hair. But if one bathes with hot water, they risk stripping the head of these oils, which could cause shiny hair to turn dull. So you should avoid washing your hair with hot water. However, it doesn’t mean you have to shower with cold water. You could use lukewarm water to wash your hair and massage the scalp by using an appropriate shampoo while you’re at it. Wash oily hair frequently Typically, individuals may wash their hair every 2 to 3 days. However, the gap between each wash may vary among people. The duration between each wash should depend on the amount of oil the scalp produces. If the produced oil is excessive, one may need to wash it at least once daily. People with chemically treated hair might have a drier scalp and must wash it less frequently. One should also remember that the scalp produces less oil as the person ages. Therefore, such people may not need to shampoo that often. However, if the individual notices flakes in their hair, they might not be shampooing enough and might need to work on this aspect to prevent dandruff and other scalp-related conditions. Leave wet hair untied after it is washed People with busy schedules might find it best to tie their wet hair into a bun to get it out of the way.

Although pets cannot speak, they still communicate in other ways. If your dog feels ill, they may display signs of discomfort through subtle changes in their personality and mood. So, the key to knowing when your dog is sick is to look out for the signs. While this can prove difficult in older pets, you must look for the indicators. Read on to understand the 10 signs of sickness to look out for in your pet dog. Top 10 signs your dog is sick Lower energy levels Taking your dog for a walk can tire them out, but if you notice that your furry friend is consistently lacking energy, it can be a sign that something is wrong. The symptoms can be something as simple as decreased playfulness and lethargy. In such cases, it’s considered best to consult a veterinarian. This way, you can ensure a thorough examination of your dog’s overall health. Changes in urination Most trained dogs will not urinate around the house. So, when outside on your daily walk together, you must look for certain signs, such as changes in urine volume, blood in the urine, and strain while urinating. Especially in older dogs. Excessive urination can be a sign of kidney issues or diabetes mellitus, and blood in the urine could signify urinary tract infections or stones in the bladder. In rare cases, it can also indicate cancer. Low appetite It’s common for dogs to eat less than usual when they’re sick. However, it’s important to remember that some health problems may be more severe than others. For instance, in the case of dental disease, your dog may not eat much food even if they want to. You can try feeding your dog some of their favorite treats in such cases. You can also let your pet eat a tiny amount of cooked chicken if needed.

Infections caused by viruses are called viral infections. Viruses are tiny pathogens that use a person’s cells to replicate repeatedly. They usually cause digestive and respiratory illnesses, but some variants can also affect other body functions. Common viral illnesses include the flu, cold, and herpes (cold sores). These go away on their own in most cases but can sometimes cause life-threatening or chronic health problems. Here are the types and early symptoms of viral infections. Types of viral infections Viral infections are usually classified depending on the body part they infect, how they spread, and the symptoms they cause. Certain viruses, such as adenovirus and herpes virus, can cause different health problems. The common types of viral infections include the following: Respiratory viral infections Respiratory viral infections start in the lungs, airways, throat, and nose. These infections cause pneumonia, ear infections, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Some common types of respiratory viral infections include: Common cold, which is generally caused by rhinovirus Flu caused by influenza Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) Parainfluenza Viral infections in the digestive system Viral infections can affect any part of the digestive system but usually start in the stomach, intestines, gastrointestinal tract, or liver. Some common types of digestive system viral infections include the following: Norovirus, astrovirus, and rotavirus cause gastroenteritis, also called stomach flu. The hepatitis virus causes an infection in the liver, which can last long, leading to chronic health problems. Viral hemorrhagic fevers This type of viral infection affects the blood clotting process. It weakens the blood vessels, leading to chronic and sometimes life-threatening bleeding. Some common types of viral hemorrhagic fevers include the following: Ebola Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) Severe dengue Yellow fever Sexually transmitted viral infections Sexually transmitted viral infections are usually spread through intercourse. Common examples of this type of viral infection include the following: