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.

Prostate cancer is a dangerous health condition in which the cells in a person’s prostate grow unnaturally, aggressively, and out of control. Like other malignancies, prostate cancer can assume life-threatening proportions if not diagnosed and addressed in its initial stages. However, healthcare professionals can treat the condition successfully if a person pays attention to the warning signs of the condition. Some of the leading indicators of prostate cancer are discussed below. Urinating difficulties Prostate cancer affects a person’s urination and the organs contributing to the process. So, people with this condition tend to have weakened or slow urine flow. Moreover, individuals with this condition also experience pain in the lower abdomen and urethra while urinating. Other issues, such as an excessive urge to urinate and a lack of control over how the urine flows, are common problems people face in all stages of prostate cancer. If people face pain while urinating or any other difficulty, they must immediately consult a doctor or oncologist for a cancer screening test. Frequent urination Besides pain during urination, prostate cancer patients might also experience irregular urination patterns in all stages of the condition. As the cells grow out of control into tumors, the adjacent cells and tissues soon start feeling the strain. Eventually, the aggressive cell growth grows into a toxin-filled tumor within the prostate of men with this condition. This tumor tends to put extreme pressure on the bladder and urethra of the individuals. Combined with all these factors, one of the earliest signs of prostate cancer is the frequent and urgent need to urinate. The frequency of such urges can get alarming, with a person feeling a urinating sensation multiple times per hour. Muscle loss without trying All kinds of cancer affect the supply of blood and nutrients to different parts of the body.

Menstruation is a natural body process where the lining of a woman’s uterus begins to shed and create a discharge of blood and other fluids. It is mainly triggered by hormone changes that occur as part of a monthly period cycle. Women can use several feminine hygiene products as per their preference to prevent the discharge from leaking. Here are the top six period products readily available in the market. Tampons Tampons are the most convenient, readily available, and widely used period products for absorbing menstrual discharge. These small cotton tubes mixed with wool are directly inserted into the vagina to prevent blood from leaking out. Cotton is an excellent absorbent material and does not irritate the organ’s lining. Tampons are use-and-throw products that come with applicators that help insert them correctly so one does not feel pain or discomfort. They are available in different sizes to absorb light, medium, or heavy periods, depending on the intensity of the menstrual cycle. But irrespective of the flow, doctors recommend changing tampons every four to six hours to keep the area clean and avoid the risk of a bacterial infection. If one wears a super-absorbent, heavy-flow tampon overnight, they should remove it and clean the area first thing in the morning. A pack of tampons can cost between $4 and $9, depending on the brand and quantity. Sanitary pads and napkins Sanitary pads and napkins are the second most widely used period products and a sustainable alternative. One-time-use cotton pads can be worn inside the undergarment and positioned in place to absorb the discharge. They come in different shapes and sizes and are made considering the intensity of the flow. Depending on the quality of the product, pads can cost anywhere between $2 and $8 per piece. Budget sanitary napkins are one-time-use cloth pads that can only be placed over the undergarment.

Breathing is such an involuntary and automatic process that one forgets that, unlike heartbeats, they can control and manage their breathing. One should usually breathe 12 to 20 times per minute. In addition to this, there are other essential things that one needs to be mindful of while breathing. Most people do not think twice about how they breathe, but the following mistakes can affect overall health in the long run: Breathing through the mouth One is supposed to breathe in oxygen through the nose and breathe out carbon dioxide using the mouth. However, breathing through the mouth can affect respiratory health as this does not allow the nose to carry out its functions. The nose is an incredibly complex organ with about 20 functions that actively aid breathing. Some of these are trapping dust particles and pollen grains, steadying the airflow, humidifying the air as it moves toward the lungs, assisting the diaphragm, and producing nitric oxide. By breathing through the mouth, one does not let the nose filter dust and other allergens. Additionally, one tends to breathe in about 2 to 3 times more oxygen than the required amount when breathing with their mouth. Breathing too fast Rapid breathing may seem harmless, but it is one of the common breathing mistakes that can wear out the lungs. Healthcare experts recommend breathing in a slow and calm manner as much as possible. Gentle breathing ensures that a soft wave of air moves through the airways and the lungs upon inhaling. This, in turn, allows the lungs to carry out their job slowly and efficiently, and the respiratory and circulatory systems work in perfect sync without one rushing each other. One should not breathe in any more than 20 breaths per minute. Fast breathing causes the systems to overwork and, resultingly, perform with lesser efficiency than normal.

There are many alternatives when it comes to managing diabetes. Certain lifestyle changes can help in alleviating the symptoms. Exercise is known to have a significant impact, and has been a constant solution to manage several health conditions. Exercise or even regular physical activity helps burn calories efficiently while significantly increasing one’s endurance and stamina. There are multiple physical activities one can try in order to manage diabetes. Some of these are listed below. Yoga Yoga includes meditative exercises that can calm one’s mind, soothe anxiety, and boost focus and concentration. People with diabetes spend most of their time worrying about their health condition, which can lead to increased stress levels. Therefore, doing yoga makes perfect sense. Additionally, the various exercises and stretches involved in yoga enhance a person’s balance, strength, and flexibility. Multiple studies have found a link between doing yoga and a marked decrease in one’s blood glucose levels. For elderly people who may find it difficult to do some of the more complex yoga exercises, the option of chair yoga is a useful avenue. Walking and running This is the most basic activity to combat diabetes and the likeliest to become a daily habit. Walking may be relatively low-impact in nature, but it is an ideal solution to improve one’s glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels. Healthcare professionals recommend brisk walking, the practice of covering about 100 steps per minute, to achieve reduced blood glucose levels and better breathing over an extended period. People looking for greater intensity in their physical activity can increase the pace of their walking and, gradually, transition to running a good distance daily. As it is much more strenuous than walking, running regularly can show more positive effects on a person’s blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Dancing One can add dancing to their daily physical routine to change up their workout sessions.

Purchasing a car is a significant financial investment that requires careful consideration. Aside from the fundamental aspects such as safety, performance, and esthetics, it is also important to take into account its current resale value. You may want to upgrade to a newer model in a few years, so being aware of its depreciation cost is crucial. This article discusses 5 best options to look for in the market that have an average resale value.  Subaru Crosstrek According to some experts, the Subaru Crosstrek’s resale value is 61 percent. It is a subcompact SUV, and the starting price for this car is $23,645. This pricing is for the base model, which comes with a manual transmission, while the Premium model starts at $24,795. If you prefer a CVT automatic transmission, you can upgrade by paying an additional $1,350. There are other models in the Crosstrek series, like the Special Edition, which starts from $26,745; the Sport model at $27,995; and the Limited trim, which starts at $29,495. If you are looking for a hybrid option, they have the Crosstrek Hybrid, which starts from $36,845. It’s important to note that there are some tax incentives available for choosing a hybrid option because it benefits the environment and is supported by the government. Also, be sure that these prices are the manufacturer’s suggested retail price and they do not include the destination fee or what is popularly known as the factory-to-dealer delivery fee. Tesla Model X The resale value of this car is estimated to be around 66 percent. This all-electric Tesla Model X is a large luxury SUV and the pricing for the same starts from $98,490. This is a seven-seater car that boasts of high performance and design, and it also has received a 5-star score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, making it a safe car to travel in.

Atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib, is a health condition characterized by irregular and rapid heart rhythm. Affecting millions worldwide, one’s lifestyle and nutritional choices can significantly impact the condition. Certain foods and beverages can worsen AFib symptoms, leading to heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and discomfort. Some common foods to avoid while dealing with atrial fibrillation symptoms and to support one’s heart health, in the long run are listed below. Wheat People with gluten intolerance or sensitivity and conditions like celiac disease must avoid gluten-containing foods like wheat and barley as they can trigger inflammation in the body. It can cause the heart’s natural pacemaker nerves to malfunction or impact how they work. To better understand the connection between gluten intake and atrial fibrillation episodes, it is better to maintain a journal. It will help track symptoms and help a healthcare professional analyze if the gluten triggers the condition. People who do not have any diagnosed issues associated with gluten can include gluten-containing foods in their meals without any complications. Salt Salt adds taste to food, but it also adds pressure to the blood flow. For patients with high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and other cardiac conditions, it is crucial to avoid excessive amounts of salt in foods. It is not restricted to food that is being ordered from eateries or that comes packaged and processed. Increased salt intake can increase the blood pressure of the patient. It increases their risk of experiencing symptoms associated with atrial fibrillation. The recommended intake of salt by the experts is 1500 mg for people with high blood pressure. Coffee A difficult decision for any caffeine lover is to dial back on the amount of coffee they drink during the day. Furthermore, if a person has been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, this is an inevitable decision that needs to be made sooner rather than later.

Most people love eating sugary foods or beverages, but it often comes at a cost. Excessive intake of sugar-rich foods is known to cause various health concerns affecting the eyes, kidneys, liver, skin, and even the ears. It happens due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels in one’s body, paving the way for chronic conditions like diabetes. Keep reading to learn more about the various hearing issues caused by excessive sugar intake and their warning signs. Hearing problems and other ear issues caused by excessive sugar intake Decreased hearing Hearing loss is extremely common among older adults as it happens with age. However, other factors can play a pivotal role in developing this condition, including diabetes, prolonged exposure to loud noises, and excess ear wax. Usually, when it comes to diabetes, one of the main reasons patients can develop hearing loss or decreased hearing is the damage caused to the blood vessels in the inner ear. But diabetes can also cause other complications, including auditory nerve damage, where one may experience problems like sounds fading in and out. Loss of balance As mentioned previously, uncontrolled blood sugar levels in the body can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the ear. Sometimes, when damage occurs to the vestibular system, located in the inner ear, it can lead to loss of balance. In such cases, one can have an increased risk of dizziness and falls. Hence, patients experiencing this ear issue must consult a health expert immediately. Tinnitus Patients with diabetes have an increased risk of developing an ear problem known as tinnitus. Here, one may notice a constant ringing sensation in their ears. While the connection between diabetes and tinnitus requires more study, this ear issue can be caused due reduced functioning of the ear cells and auditory nerves. It means diabetes patients with insulin resistance can, over time, experience tinnitus as one of the hearing problems triggered by excessive sugar intake.

Individuals with disabilities or certain extenuating circumstances often qualify for federal aid. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two such aid programs that offer assistance to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, such as a qualifying disability and limited income and resources, set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, there are several reasons why the SSA may deny one’s claim, making it advisable to hire an attorney. The application process One could apply for the Social Security disability program online, over the phone, or in person. In either case, the process follows a couple of general steps: You will need to gather the information and documents you need to apply. The application must be completed and submitted. The application is reviewed by the SSA to ensure the basic requirements are met for the disability benefits. The administration will confirm you have worked sufficient years to qualify and evaluate current work activities. The administration processes the application and forwards the case to the Disability Determination Services office in your state. The state agency will make the disability determination decision. Understanding representation While the process seems fairly simple, there’s a lot of complex documentation involved, and hiring a lawyer could come in handy. The professional could be an attorney or a disability advocate who is not a lawyer but has passed an SSA-administered exam and met other educational and occupational requirements. Whether or not you require help is entirely up to you and depends on your circumstances. You may decide not to appeal if you are denied a claim; however, you have the right to an attorney to help with legal proceedings concerning the Social Security Administration. Benefits of hiring a disability attorney A range of obstacles may arise when dealing with social security disability applications.

Sleep is one of the most essential restful activities for the body, and this activity must lead to relaxation and refreshment. Neck and spine pain can be triggered if you do not sleep in a proper position, so follow some tips and tricks to avoid neck and spine pain. Read more about the causes of neck pain and the best dos and don’ts of sleeping positions that help with neck and spine pain. Causes for neck pain during sleep Some of the reasons why you may be experiencing neck pain during sleep include the following: Stress:  Due to psychological stress, tension can arise in the neck muscles. They can get stiff and, in some cases, even inflamed. Due to the tension, the recovery slows, making the pain last longer. Poor support:  Insufficient support for the neck during sleep can trigger neck and spine pain. That is why it is crucial to have the proper support during sleep. Poor posture: Sitting on a desk for hours can lead to bad posture. Not just computer screens but carrying heavy grocery bags without proper support and sitting in one position for too long are some reasons the neck and back muscles can get affected. This poor posture can lead to neck pain. Sleep position:  Sleep position plays a huge role in keeping the neck and spine healthy. So some positions, like sleeping on the stomach, can lead to neck pain in individuals. Let’s discuss the sleeping positions that should be followed to keep the neck and spine pain-free. You may even consult a doctor for the correct sleeping positions and continuously invest in a good mattress that keeps your spine healthy. Various sleeping positions There are many different sleeping positions or postures that everyone is comfortable with. Let’s examine some of these and evaluate how they affect neck and spine muscles.

It can be highly beneficial to have a reliable gynecologist to ensure optimal reproductive health. Some individuals may feel uneasy discussing personal matters with their gynecologist. Hence, finding a doctor who creates a safe and comfortable environment is crucial. A proficient gynecologist will provide factual and informative responses to all sensitive inquiries without causing any embarrassment or judgment. The following are some questions that can be asked during a gynecologist appointment: What is my vulva supposed to look like? It is extremely normal to be curious about the vulva. Is it too big, too small, too dark? These are some of the common questions most women have about their bodies. A vulva is different in every woman, and it is completely normal. A good gynecologist will help one understand this easily and can explain that this is just a part of the genitals, and as long as it is healthy, one does not have anything to worry about. Should I shave or wax before visiting? Some may question whether it is appropriate to wax, trim, or shave pubic hair before going for a doctor’s visit. This is a valid question; the right answer is to do what makes one feel comfortable. Although, doctors suggest that one should not wax the pubes completely. This is because the pubic hair is there for a reason. It acts as a protective buffer and helps reduce friction during sex and other activities. It is also helpful in preventing the transmission of any infections, bacteria, and other pathogens. So, one does not need to wax the pubic hair before seeing a doctor. A gynecologist acknowledges the significance of hair and will never criticize someone for it. Some people feel comfortable trimming their hair before a visit, which is okay, too, as long as one does not hurt oneself in the process.

Prurigo nodularis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the development of raised nodules or bumpy papules on the skin’s surface. The nodules are often intensely itchy and can lead to significant discomfort and distress. While the disorder primarily affects the skin, it can also lower a person’s quality of life if ignored or not managed properly. This post explores the nine most common signs and symptoms of prurigo nodularis. Nodules or papules One of the more visible signs of prurigo nodularis is the development of small, raised bumps on the skin’s surface. These bumps emerge over six to eight weeks after the condition strikes. They vary in size, typically ranging from a few millimeters to over a centimeter in diameter. The bumps are often firm to the touch and may have a reddish, brownish, or normal skin color tint on the exterior. Note that the intensity of these pimples or blemishes will vary depending on how severe the underlying triggers are and how well patients manage chronic flare-ups. Intense itching Skin irritation and itching are among the most commonly reported signs of skin disorders. In prurigo nodularis, this symptom is persistent and distressing, commonly referred to as pruritis. Pruritis is mild at first but can become relentless and overwhelming, leading to a strong urge to scratch the affected areas continually. The discomfort can be so intense that it disrupts daily activities. Patients may even find it hard to sleep at night since the itching makes it impossible to find a suitable sleeping position. The itching first develops around the nodules of bumps but can quickly spread to other body areas if left unchecked. Symmetric lesions Lesions are another symptom commonly seen in many skin disorders. However, their appearance may vary depending on the underlying trigger, helping dermatologists diagnose the problem.