Osteoporosis is a bone condition that develops when bone mass and density decrease or when the structure and strength of the bone change. Although it can occur at any age, osteoporosis is a major cause of fractures in postmenopausal women and older men. These fractures most commonly occur in the hips, vertebrae, and the wrist. It is considered a “silent” disease because there are generally no signs or symptoms until a bone breaks. Signs of early-stage osteoporosis In the early stages of osteoporosis, one may notice the following signs: Receding gums If the jaw begins to lose bone density, it can cause the gums to recede. Bone density loss can also make the gums more susceptible to bacteria, increasing the risk for gum disease. Speak to a dentist about screening for bone loss in the jaw. Weaker grip strength Research conducted on postmenopausal women shows a clear link between low bone density and low hand grip strength. Lower grip strength also puts one at a higher risk for falls. Weak and brittle fingernails Nail strength is also a reflection of one’s bone health. Weak and brittle fingernails could signal low bone density or mass. However, nail strength is also influenced by a host of other factors, such as exposure to extremely hot or cold weather, regular use of nail polish or acrylic nails, and submersion in water for long periods. Signs of later-stage osteoporosis Once the bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, one may notice more apparent signs and symptoms, such as: Back or neck pain Osteoporosis can cause compression fractures in the spine, which can cause a lot of pain in the neck and the back. This is because the collapsed vertebrae can pinch nerves around the spinal cord. The pain may occur in the form of mild discomfort or tenderness and range up to debilitating pain that severely interferes with one’s daily activities.

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.

Most people who suffer from constipation, occasionally or regularly, may find the condition undeniably uncomfortable. Occasional constipation may occur when waste moves from the digestive system slower than usual, which causes it to build up, turn hard and dry, and make stool difficult to pass. There are multiple prescriptions that can help offer relief. A healthcare expert may also recommend these eight drinks to help relieve constipation in combination with treatments. Prune juice One of the most popular choices to relieve constipation is prune juice. An 8-ounce glass of fruit in liquid form contains close to 3 grams of fiber, which makes up about 10 percent of an individual’s Daily Value (DV). As for its benefits, the fiber content derived from prunes helps bulk up stools. Furthermore, the fruit is also rich in sorbitol, which assists in softening the waste matter, making it easier to pass. Since the juice is best enjoyed in its natural form, one should put about 5-6 pieces of the fruit in a bowl and soak it in a quarter cup of hot water for 30 minutes. After this, they need to blend the contents of the bowl, cool it down, and drink the juice. Apple juice Drinking apple juice may serve as a very gentle laxative for people with constipation. Healthcare experts often recommend the remedy for children because of its high ratio of fructose to glucose and sorbitol content. A medium-sized apple may offer about 5 grams of fiber, which is necessary to bulk up the stool. Apples are also significantly high in water content, which could help hydration. Staying hydrated is essential for better bowel movements. One could use locally sourced, organic apples to make the juice. They could also use juice apples and mix the contents in smoothies. Lemon juice A glass of lemon juice a day isn’t just refreshing but may also aid in relieving constipation.

Schizophrenia is a prevalent mental health condition that affects a person’s cognitive abilities and overall functioning. Its symptoms range from unusual behavior and distorted thinking to severe episodes of delusions, hallucinations, and emotional disconnect. Although the disorder is chronic with no cure, an early diagnosis and timely treatment can help improve the patient’s quality of life. The following are some healthy foods for schizophrenia that can help manage the condition better. Foods rich in omega-3 Healthy fats help counter inflammation that triggers cognitive symptoms and discomforts in people with schizophrenia. Omega-3 is among the most popular healthy fats experts recommend patients include in their meal plans to manage the condition. It helps slow down the progression of the disease to a reasonable extent and prevents oxidative stress from harming healthy brain cells. Fatty fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, black cod, and sardines are the best sources of omega-3, which the brain easily absorbs. Vegetarians looking to increase their intake of omega-3 fatty acids can eat avocados. Besides anti-inflammatory properties, the fruit has fiber, which keeps a person feeling full. This, in turn, curbs unnecessary hunger pangs, lowering the risk of overeating associated with schizophrenia. Assorted nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are also suitable omega-3 sources for vegetarians. However, one should consume fatty acids carefully to boost anti-inflammatory responses and prevent cognitive functions from declining. Healthy probiotics Research studies suggest gut health can affect cognitive functions like thinking and memory. So, people with schizophrenia should consider foods and beverages that help boost healthy gut bacteria and preserve them in the digestive tract. Yogurt is one of the top choices among dairy products that help increase probiotic intake. It is also easy to digest and helps reduce stress. Nutritionists further suggest including fermented pickled vegetables in the meal plan to boost probiotic intake naturally.

Individuals grappling with migraine attacks would perhaps understand best that headaches can be debilitating, affecting one’s daily routines considerably. A migraine attack is a severe throbbing headache, typically on one side of the head, accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, nausea, and light and sound sensitivity. These attacks occur intermittently and may last varying durations, differing between individuals. Let’s get insights into certain foods that can help fight migraines and control their symptoms. Boiled spinach Some studies have shown that magnesium may block certain brain signals that cause migraine attacks, while other research articles suggest that magnesium is essential to stop the development of certain chemicals that may contribute to migraines. Thus, magnesium-rich foods can help individuals with migraines control their symptoms. Half a cup of boiled spinach contains nearly 78 mg of magnesium; moreover, it is an excellent source of iron, whose deficiency can cause low oxygen levels in the brain and lead to migraines. Further, it is advisable to have vitamin C-rich foods alongside foods rich in iron to ensure optimal iron absorption. Bananas An extreme dip in blood sugar levels can cause or exacerbate migraine headaches. Besides being rich in magnesium and potassium, bananas provide an instant surge of energy and prevent the onset of a migraine attack. Bananas are also healthier alternatives to processed sugary foods like chocolates and cookies. Moreover, it is imperative to stay hydrated at all times, particularly when one is prone to migraines. Bananas are high in water content and help prevent dehydration. This humble fruit may be added to several quick preparations, including shakes, smoothies, and fruit salads. Fatty fish Studies have demonstrated that a meal plan containing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help with migraine relief. Fatty or oily fish varieties like salmon, tuna, herring, and mackerel are packed with omega-3 and should be a part of one’s daily meals.

Committing to healthier lifestyle habits is one of the best ways to support their health. One of these habits involves embarking on a fitness program to help improve energy levels, the ability to participate in daily activities and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, it isn’t simply about getting into a routine. One must also ensure they exercise appropriately to avoid complications, including injuries. On that note, here are nine fitness mistakes to avoid for an improved outlook. Overtraining Doing anything in excess can harm one’s health, and this includes high-intensity exercise. Individuals can get on a workout routine for the first time. However, it is important for them to refrain from trying and pushing themselves beyond what their body can handle. Overtraining could lead to injuries that may affect the person’s ability to participate in the fitness routine for a long time. It is also important to time the rest period during a workout. One could follow a 60-minute session that includes warm-ups, cool-down, and lifting exercises. Wearing a stopwatch or using an app on the smartphone could improve time management while working out. Skipping warm-up One of the worst mistakes people make during a workout routine is skipping the warm-up session. Warming up before initiating an exercise helps prepare the muscles, lungs, and heart for the upcoming physical activity. These mild routines also help lower the risk of injuries and help the individual mentally prepare for the workout ahead. When a warm-up is done right, the temperature of the muscles and body rises, which helps improve blood flow. The process subsequently improves muscle elasticity, and circulation, which is essential for a better range of motion. A few warm-up routines include bodyweight exercises like lunges, pushups, jumping jacks, and squats. Not having a set plan Several individuals begin their workout routine without having a prepared plan.

Joint pain can be a natural consequence of aging, or it could be a symptom of conditions like arthritis and gout. While these diseases usually affect older adults, research suggests a link between excessive sugar intake and the risk of developing joint pain. Further, sugar may worsen symptoms of joint problems. Further, one may be likely to experience pain and stiffness in the joints when dealing with diabetes or high blood sugar. Arthritis and sugar intake According to two long-term studies, female participants who were given more than one sugar-sweetened soda every day had a 63% higher risk of developing deep positive rheumatoid arthritis. However, the conclusions were not solely based on sugar intake, but also determined by other factors like eating a lot of processed food. People with arthritis may experience an increase in joint pain when choosing potentially triggering foods like processed and sugary items.  Signs of joint problems Anecdotal evidence suggests that those dealing with joint pain experience episodes of pain after having sugary foods and beverages. So, high sugar may worsen symptoms of existing joint problems. Here are a few signs one may observe: Pain and mobility issues Over time, unhealthy food choices can lead to multiple health issues, including joint pain. Poor eating habits include high sugar intake, which can lead to an increase in body mass, exerting additional stress on the joints. The pressure usually affects the the joints in knees and ankles, potentially making it difficult for one to carry out everyday activities like walking, standing up, sitting down, running, and jogging. So, it is important to incorporate healthy and sustainable lifestyle changes into the daily routine to avoid complications like joint pain. Swelling and inflammation Research suggests that eating too much sugar triggers excessive production of cytokines—inflammatory proteins. So, with a high intake of sweet foods and beverages, the body is at risk of inflammation, which is one of the causes of joint pain.

The adverse effects of eating too much sugar are not limited to just diabetes and dental issues. The liver, responsible for detoxifying the body and regulating metabolic processes, can also fall victim to sugar overload. Individuals who relish sweets too often should learn to recognize the signs of liver disease due to excessive sugar intake. Besides listing the indicators of liver damage, this post discusses how to maintain liver health to prevent complications. Signs of liver disease due to excessive sugar intake While the symptoms listed below could result from several conditions, they are commonly linked to kidney disease, which may occur gradually due to high sugar intake: Fatigue and weakness Persistent fatigue and weakness are common signs of liver disease. When the liver is overwhelmed by excessive sugar intake, it becomes inflamed and suffers from cell damage. As a result, its ability to store and release glucose for energy production can get affected. When the body’s cells and tissues do not receive glucose, individuals experience unexplained fatigue and a general lack of energy. Abdominal discomfort Liver disease caused by excessive sugar intake can result in abdominal discomfort. Individuals may experience pain where the liver is located. This symptom can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by bloating or a sense of pressure. Jaundice Jaundice, characterized by yellowed skin and eyes, mainly develops when the liver cannot properly filter a waste product called bilirubin from the blood, created when red blood cells are broken down. If someone notices a yellowish tint in their skin or eyes, they should seek expert attention immediately. If ignored, jaundice can lead to severe complications, including brain damage. Dark-colored urine Changes in urine can indicate liver dysfunction. Dark urine is often a sign of increased bilirubin levels in the body, which can affect the working of the liver.

Colon cancer refers to cancerous polyps developing in the rectum or colon in the lower part of the digestive tract. Individuals with colon cancer may experience abdominal pain, changes in their bowel movement patterns, diarrhea or constipation, and the feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation. Surgery, radiofrequency ablation, and chemotherapy are among the commonly prescribed treatment options for this condition. Further, incorporating certain foods into one’s meal plan can help with the healing process. Superfoods to manage colon cancer Beans Beans are rich in flavonoids, compounds with several antioxidant properties that prevent colon cancer from spreading. They are also packed with fiber and vitamins B and E and can help replenish the body with essential nutrients. It helps to include different types of beans, including black beans, soybeans, kidney beans, lentils, peas, and pinto beans, in one’s meals while healing from cancer. Fatty fish Fatty or oily fish varieties, including salmon, swordfish, tuna, and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids associated with anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids inhibit cancer progression and increase survival chances. Moreover, they contain high levels of vitamin D, which have also been shown to reduce mortality rates among patients. Broccoli Broccoli is a great source of sulforaphane, a phytochemical associated with cancer-fighting properties. In general, including broccoli and cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, kale, bok choy, and collards in one’s meal plan can be highly beneficial to affected people. Brown rice Studies have shown that having brown rice can help reduce the formation of polyps and inflammation associated with colorectal cancer. Further, brown rice is a healthier substitute for polished white rice, as it contains higher levels of fiber and manganese, selenium, and other vital nutrients. It can also help with the movement of stools among affected patients. Pomegranate Pomegranate entails an anti-carcinogenic effect, limiting tumor growth and slowing colon cancer progression.

A POS (point-of-sale) system is used in retail stores to manage transactions. Earlier, POS systems were fairly simple and would generally only include cash registers. However, with the advancement of technology, these systems now also include a combination of hardware and software, such as barcode scanners, card readers, cash drawers, and receipt printers. Some simple POS systems can include as little as a credit card scanner connected to a tablet. What does a POS system do? Scans items with ease When a customer decides to make a purchase at a physical store, a POS system can assist in completing the transaction. This may occur via a sales associate who uses a barcode scanner to look up the item’s price or using a scanner via your phone camera. When shopping online, adding items to the cart initiates the purchase process. Calculates the price of the item The POS also calculates the final price of the item, including any discounts, offers, or taxes to be added. It then digitally updates your inventory to mark the item as sold. Allows multiple payment options Next, it is time to make the payment. Depending on the POS used, customers can use their credit card, tap card, debit card, loyalty points, gift card, or cash to pay. Finalizes the transaction Once the payment has been made, the sale is considered final. A digital or printed receipt is generated and shared with the customer to mark this transaction. What are the best POS systems currently in the market for small businesses? POS systems are an all-in-one solution to help you manage your business and get better insights from any location. Here are some popular POS systems to choose from: Clover POS Clover is one of the best POS systems with a wide variety of hardware options. This makes it ideal for e-commerce stores and restaurants looking for a huge selection of POS hardware.

The immune system is a natural defense mechanism of the human body that protects against harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Although it functions well in healthy individuals, it may fail to work at times, making them more vulnerable to infections and illnesses. Additionally, an overactive immune system can result in autoimmune conditions like psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. Therefore, one must look for signs of a weak immune system to ensure necessary treatment. Common signs of a weak immune system High-stress levels According to American Psychological Association, when an individual goes through long periods of stress, it can adversely affect their immune system. This is because, as stress levels in the body increase, it leads to a simultaneous decrease in lymphocytes – white blood cells ( WBC) that aid in the fight against infections. Although this may seem harmless, this decrease in WBCs can cause one to be at an increased risk for virus or bacteria-related issues such as the common cold. Besides this, chronic stress or frequent episodes of stress can worsen autoimmune conditions like ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Persistent colds Most people can be affected by the common cold 2-3 times a year. In such cases, these individuals may bounce back to normalcy in a week or a maximum of 10 days. During this time, the immune system produces antibodies to fight off the infection and continue body functions normally. But if one is catching colds frequently or has a persistent cold that does not get better after running its course, these could be signs of a weak immune system. In such cases, it’s considered best to seek immediate medical attention to ascertain the underlying cause and go through the needed treatment. Slow healing wounds A clear indicator of a weak immune system is slow healing wounds.

Buying a used vehicle that has been driven for a significant number of miles and has had multiple owners over the years is a common occurrence. However, buying used vehicles in today’s economy is a profitable decision. Where even the most basic sedans and SUVs across popular brands cost upwards of $40,000 on average, a used car is available for almost half the cost. Here are the top 5 picks among used cars to buy today. Dodge Dodge is one of the premier automobile brands that stood the test of time with reliable trims that are still in demand. The Dodge Charger is a popular 4-door sedan that even got featured in action and racing movies. The car boasts a sporty 6.2L Hemi V8 engine capable of 712 HP, making it one of the popular picks for used cars to buy for a base price of approximately $21,000 for the 2018 lineup. Dodge even dominated the pickup truck segment when the brand introduced a powerful midsize production truck featuring a 4.7L Magnum V8 engine. The Dodge Dakota was launched as a competitor for Ford and Chevrolet’s truck series. But one of the key highlights is Dakota’s 7000 lbs. towing capacity which made this truck make a comeback year after year. A used Dodge Dakota will cost you no more than $7,000 for the 2007 trims. To this day, loyal customers of the brand also consider a premium upgrade with the Dodge RAM series that boasts an even bigger engine with the 6.7L Turbocharged Cummins Engine. A used Dodge RAM 2017 trim can be bought for an approximate price of $29,995 from local vendors. Jeep Jeep is a name that is synonymous with off-roading, with several of the car’s production series designed for adventure driving. And it’s one of the popular brands for patrons interested in used cars to buy for off-roading but at an affordable price.