9 foods for better management of GERD symptoms

9 foods for better management of GERD symptoms

GERD, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic acid reflux condition that affects around twenty percent of the population. This condition causes burning discomfort, bloating, or even belching after almost every meal. One of the reasons this acid reflux happens is if the lower esophageal sphincter is weakened or damaged. The best way to manage this disease is to structure a good meal plan to avoid reactions. Here are some best foods to manage GERD. Ginger This has been used as a remedy root for many centuries for various chronic ailments. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help treat complications like heartburn and other gastrointestinal problems. This root is said to have phenolic compounds, known for their ability to relieve gastrointestinal irritation and help reduce gastric contractions that can cause pain. Since it is also an anti-inflammatory herb, it helps reduce inflammation of the esophagus, which causes this acid reflux. You can consume this herb in several ways by adding it to food recipes or tea. Also, be careful not to overuse this ingredient and eat in moderation. Oatmeal A whole-grain breakfast option, oatmeal, is considered excellent for gut health. It is full of fiber which is known for its digestive properties that are essential when dealing with issues related to the gastro.
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7 exercises to sweat the migraine away

7 exercises to sweat the migraine away

Exercising has a lot of benefits, some we are already aware of, some most of us overlook. Either way, its importance in our lives is not a secret. Why, then, do we choose to scroll through our phones or mindlessly jump between shows instead of using that time to build a healthier mind and body? Regular exercise not only helps you build muscles, it also helps you build resistance to various issues, such as migraines. So, here are seven exercises to sweat the migraine attack away. Stretching Stretching for as little as 10 minutes daily can significantly improve your headache. Migraines can be a pain to deal with, and exercising might be the last thing you want to do when in pain. When you don’t want to take time and exercise, try some simple stretches to help relieve your migraine. It will help improve blood circulation and, in turn, ease the tension. Some simple and effective stretches include: Chin tucks This is most effective in people that work at a desk and have poor posture as their constant companion. Chin tucks help realign the neck, head, and shoulders, improving your posture. Sit with your back against the back of the chair or the wall with your spine long while performing this exercise.
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13 foods that worsen breathing difficulties

13 foods that worsen breathing difficulties

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.
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Esophageal cancer – Signs, causes, and management

Esophageal cancer – Signs, causes, and management

Esophageal cancer affects the esophagus. It is the long tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. In this tube, cancerous cells grow for various reasons leading to tumors. As the tumor grows, esophageal cancer signs start to become evident. As soon as the symptoms show up, it is recommended to start treatment to prevent the cancer cells from metastasis. Here are a few esophageal cancer signs, causes, and treatments to make note of. Esophageal cancer signs Starting in the inner layers of the esophagus, the cancer cells grow outward, spreading to the esophageal wall. In the early stages, no symptoms are noticeable or detectable. However, as the cancer cells grow to the lymph nodes, the blood vessels in the chest, and other organs, some of these esophageal cancer signs start to manifest. Chest pain This is one of the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer. A person will start to feel pain, specifically in the middle area of the chest. The pain is similar to feeling pressure build up in the chest or like a burning sensation. After some time, the pain radiates to other areas, such as below the throat, between the shoulders, and behind the breastbone.
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10 healthy foods to boost bone health and manage osteoporosis

10 healthy foods to boost bone health and manage osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones in the body, making them brittle. The condition may lead to injuries or fractures even at the slightest fall. Improving bone health is one of the best ways to prevent osteoporosis. One can achieve this by following a treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare professional. But to give the bones an additional nutrition boost, the individual should include the foods listed below in their meal plan. Milk Maintaining and retaining peak bone mass for a long period is essential, especially in people at risk of osteoporosis. One of the ways to ensure the bones receive sufficient calcium is through the intake of dairy products like milk. Adults require at least 700 mg of calcium daily to improve bone strength and structure. However, one should be mindful of the type of dairy products they consume. Consult a nutritional expert if one is confused about whether o opt for full-fat or nonfat dairy products. Nonfat options are usually low on vitamins A and D, which are also required to build strong bones. Therefore, if an individual picks dairy products without fat, they must look for options fortified with fat-soluble vitamins. Walnuts Eating a handful of nuts regularly could introduce calcium to the body.
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12 foods to avoid when dealing with osteoporosis

12 foods to avoid when dealing with osteoporosis

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.
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10 common side effects of caffeine

10 common side effects of caffeine

Most people love to start their day with a hot, refreshing cup of coffee. Coffee, as everyone knows, is a major source of caffeine in the lives of millions worldwide every day. While caffeine has its positives, one of which is helping people stay awake and refreshed for long hours, daily consumption can be problematic. Healthcare professionals generally discourage people from consuming excessive amounts of caffeine for a whole host of reasons. Anxiety Perhaps the most well-known benefit of caffeine is how it eases exhaustion. This is possible as caffeine inhibits the effectiveness of adenosine, a brain chemical that creates the sensation of exhaustion in individuals. Simultaneously, caffeine also causes the release of a hormone named adrenaline, which brings about increased energy and vigor in caffeine consumers. Unfortunately, when one consumes too much caffeine, these effects are magnified excessively and cause anxiety, rapid breathing, jitteriness, and stress. If an individual consumes caffeine despite developing anxiety, their condition can go from bad to worse. Frequent urges to urinate Consuming too much of any liquid can overwork the bladder and make one visit the restroom more often to urinate, and coffee is no different in that regard. However, caffeine contains chemicals that raise the risk of increased urination.
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9 drinks that help manage constipation

9 drinks that help manage constipation

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.
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8 Simple Tips To Prevent Hair Damage

8 Simple Tips To Prevent Hair Damage

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.
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8 Foods for Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

8 Foods for Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

For most people, achieving healthy hair, skin, and nails involves visiting a beauty salon for cosmetic treatments. However, it’s crucial to remember that what we put inside our bodies is more important than what we put on them. Thus, consuming nutritious food is vital to provide the body with the necessary minerals, vitamins, and nutrients for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, keeping the body hydrated by drinking enough water is equally crucial. How does food impact hair, skin, and nails? Skin, hair, and nails are made of different elements. For example, the fingernails and hair are made of keratin. So if keratin production is not regulated in the body, a person will have dull hair and brittle nails. In such cases, eating foods rich in biotin is usually recommended. It boosts keratin production in the body and promotes follicle growth. Similarly, Vitamins A, E, and D, iron, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein are also essential for skin, hair, and nail health. When one eats foods rich in healthy fats, the body can lock in enough moisture making them radiant. On the contrary, not eating foods rich in these nutrients can worsen the skin, nails, and hair condition. For example, it has been observed that eating foods that are low in carbohydrates can lead to hair thinning, making them brittle.
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