The foods one eats may have a direct effect on their overall health. Therefore, when one consumes unhealthy foods, they risk developing or worsening health conditions. One of the most common complications that might worsen due to these foods intake includes cancer. The eatables usually contain carcinogenic compounds that lead to health complications. So here are nine foods that one should exclude from their meals if they are at risk of developing cancer. French fries Who doesn’t love indulging in a pack of french fries at home or a fast food joint? Well, this food is one of the worst options for human health, more so for people with cancer. Starchy food produces a substance known as acrylamide when it is heated at higher temperatures. The property has shown signs of worsening the risk of cancer in patients. The chemical may damage the DNA in healthy cells, leading to their death, which can aggravate the symptoms of cancer. One should note that french fries may increase inflammation and oxidative stress, two common cancer triggers. Individuals should also avoid fried foods such as chicken strips, cheese sticks, and fried fish, as these may also worsen cancer symptoms. Beef and pork Red meats like beef and pork are some of the unhealthiest food sources for people at risk of cancer. These meats are classified into group 2A, which makes them potentially carcinogenic. When a chemical in red meats, called haem, is broken down in the gut, it forms N-nitroso chemicals known to damage the cells that line the bowels. The reaction can result in bowel cancer. Research also indicates that its excessive intake may trigger prostate and pancreatic cancers. Other types of red meats one should avoid include goat, lamb, veal, and mutton. Sausages Many people have a batch of sausages for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack.

With processed and packaged foods and sedentary lifestyles becoming the norm in today’s fast-paced world, there has been an unprecedented increase in cholesterol levels. About 86 million adults nationwide have total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL. High cholesterol can increase one’s risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Detecting this condition early on can help curb its symptoms. Here are some signs of high cholesterol and tips to control the levels. 14 signs of high cholesterol High blood pressure Cholesterol plaque and calcium can cause the hardening of one’s arteries, increasing the pressure exerted on the heart to pump blood. Consequently, the blood pressure levels of individuals with high cholesterol are elevated. Type-2 diabetes According to the American Heart Association, diabetes can increase one’s risk of developing a health condition called dyslipidemia, characterized by abnormal levels of lipids, including high LDL or bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels and low levels of HDL or good cholesterol. Thus, the prevalence of type-2 diabetes increases one’s probability of having high cholesterol. Peripheral arterial disease High cholesterol levels can cause the buildup of cholesterol plaque and calcium in the heart, hardening one’s arteries and increasing one’s risk of peripheral arterial disease. Leg numbness, cramping, a cold sensation in the lower leg or foot, and weak pulse in the leg or foot are some symptoms of peripheral heart disease. Thus, if one experiences these signs, it is an indicator to check one’s cholesterol levels immediately. Stroke The fatty deposits in the arteries due to cholesterol cause problems with blood flow through the arteries. The sudden breakage of these fatty deposits can lead to the formation of clots, leading to a stroke. Therefore, strokes can be indicators of unmonitored high cholesterol levels. Chest pain The buildup of cholesterol plaque in the arteries and the resultant pressure on the heart to pump blood can lead to severe chest pain among individuals with cholesterol.

Water is one of the vital elements for a person’s survival. Apart from the fact that it makes up about 60% of the body, water is key to the functionality of all systems in an individual. For example, water helps optimize blood circulation, ensuring that all the organs and parts of the body receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen to run efficiently. Here are some side effects of inadequate water intake: Persistent headaches Not drinking enough water during the day is particularly bad for people with migraines and other headache-driven health conditions. Not consuming water for long periods either causes headaches or makes them worse. The pain can get to throbbing and ear-splitting levels, seriously affecting a person’s ability to perform tasks. This is why healthcare experts advise people suffering from headaches to drink a few glasses of water and rest to relatively and gradually calm down the pain. On average, it takes about two to three hours to reduce a headache after one consumes water. Insufficient water intake is directly related to water not reaching the brain area, causing these throbbing headaches. Therefore, it is always handy to always keep a water-filled bottle by one’s side. Disturbances of fluid balance An inadequate intake of water and fluids tends to thicken the blood over a period of time. This creates an imbalance of fluids in a person’s body. The thickening of blood forces a person’s heart to work much harder than normal to circulate oxygen, electrolytes, and nutrients to all parts of the body through the blood. As a result, people who consume less water are more likely to suffer cardiac arrests and other cardiovascular issues, all caused by rampant fluid imbalance. What’s more, overworking one’s heart also makes people feel tired faster. To avoid all these nasty outcomes, drinking a glass of water every hour (or at least every couple of hours) is advisable for people of all ages.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythm. It can lead to blood clotting if left untreated. Several factors contribute to the development of the condition, including what one eats. Certain foods worsen the symptoms and frequency of AFib episodes, while others can support heart health and help alleviate the condition. So, here is a look at a few foods that can worsen AFIb and should be avoided: What is atrial fibrillation? Atria refers to the upper chambers of the heart. Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and rapid electrical signals in the organ. When the signals become irregular, it leads to poor circulation of blood and heart palpitations, with the atria quivering instead of contracting as they normally would. Common symptoms one may experience with AFib are chest pain, trouble breathing, lightheadedness, fatigue, and dizziness. In the worst cases, it may lead to heart stroke and heart failure. Foods to avoid Coffee and energy drinks Coffee contains high levels of caffeine—a stimulant that is known to increase heart rate and worsen AFib episodes. Other beverages like energy drinks, black tea, and some soft drinks also are rich in caffeine and are best avoided or limited to avoid worsening the symptoms. Bread and pasta Gluten is a common protein found in wheat and grains like barley and rye. While gluten sensitivity or intolerance is more commonly associated with digestive issues, studies suggest it may also affect cardiovascular health, including worsening AFib and its symptoms. One should note that gluten-rich foods may not affect everyone the same way, so their effect on Afib can vary from person to person. But individuals with gluten-related conditions should avoid or limit foods such as bread and pasta. Grapefruit One should exercise caution when adding grapefruit or grapefruit juice to daily meals.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum, causing sores, ulcers, and bleeding. Symptoms for this condition generally develop between the ages of 15 and 30 or between 50 to 70. The condition develops in flare-ups and then may disappear for weeks or months at a time. Here are some of the early signs of ulcerative colitis one may observe: Diarrhea One of the early signs of ulcerative colitis that people notice is watery diarrhea combined with a frequent and sudden urge to pass bowel movements. One may feel the need to pass bowel movements up to 10 times a day, and this can significantly affect their daily life. For those living with UC, uncontrollable diarrhea could lead to medical emergencies like severe dehydration, perforated colon, or sepsis. Rectal bleeding Those with UC may also experience blood or mucus in their stools, especially during a flare. This is because the blood from the ulcers reaches the surface of the rectum. One should consult a doctor immediately after observing this symptom. Abdominal and rectal pain People with UC may experience mild-to-severe abdominal or rectal pain. It may also occur in the form of persistent muscle spasms and cramping. Excessive abdominal or rectal pain could be a sign of an oncoming UC flare-up. Fever Some people with the condition also develop a chronic, low-grade fever. However, if the fever is over 103ºF, it warrants immediate medical attention. Anemia Experiencing frequent bleeding can drop the red blood cell count, causing anemia. This may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, problems concentrating, chest pain, and even shortness of breath. It is advisable to get blood levels checked every 6 to 12 months. The condition can also cause less-common symptoms such as constipation.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm disorder affecting millions worldwide. Understanding the causes and early signs of AFib is crucial for timely detection, intervention, and effective management. The subtle yet vital signs that indicate its presence can be mistaken as nothing serious or a symptom of some other health condition. By unraveling the mysteries behind AFib, it is essential to empower oneself with the knowledge that can lead to proactive heart health management and improved quality of life. Causes of atrial fibrillation Age As one grows old, the risk of developing atrial fibrillation increases. The wear and tear on the heart’s electrical system over time can disrupt its normal rhythm and lead to AFib. Additionally, age-related conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and underlying structural abnormalities can further predispose individuals to AFib. High blood pressure Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant risk factor for atrial fibrillation. Persistent elevation in blood pressure can damage the heart’s electrical system and promote irregular heartbeats. Managing and controlling blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and appropriate healthcare interventions is crucial in reducing the risk of developing AFib. Heart conditions and diseases Various heart conditions and diseases can contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation. These include coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, congenital heart defects, heart failure, and a history of heart surgery. Structural abnormalities or damage to the heart’s tissues can disrupt its electrical signals, leading to AFib. Sleep apnea Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, is strongly linked to atrial fibrillation. The intermittent lack of oxygen during apnea episodes can trigger irregular heart rhythms. Treating sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy can help reduce the risk of AFib. Chronic lung diseases Individuals with chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, have an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in which a person’s digestive tract tissues undergo inflammation and swelling. While it affects several digestive areas, this disease commonly targets the small intestine. It causes severe pain and discomfort in the abdomen region. Healthcare experts can diagnose the condition by detecting some of its more prevalent symptoms. Thus, here are some of the common early signs of Crohn’s disease you must note. Diarrhea Crohn’s disease is characterized by frequent flare-ups. As specified earlier, this includes inflammation and swelling in the tissues of one’s digestive tract. As a result, the intestine walls cannot absorb any nutrients, causing the waste residue to pass through without much natural processing. Due to this and the swelling, an individual’s stools are also badly affected. A person’s motions become loose, watery, and sometimes entirely liquid because of Crohn’s frequent flare-ups. This is why people with this condition start experiencing diarrhea regularly, along with this health condition’s flare-ups. Abdominal pain Pain in the lower part of one’s tummy is not uncommon for those who suffer from Crohn’s disease. In fact, this is an early symptom that a person is living with this disorder. The above-mentioned inflammation and swelling in the intestines tend to put a lot of pressure in and around the abdomen areas and the organs that are placed there. As a result, people experience discomfort and pain in their abdomen if they have Crohn’s disease. This pain becomes especially pronounced during flare-ups; it is usually accompanied by cramps and frequent instances of fatigue as well. Abdominal pain is a symptom common to many diseases similar to Crohn’s. So, if one frequently has pain and discomfort in their abdominal area, they need to visit a healthcare professional immediately for help. Loss of appetite People with Crohn’s disease undergo several hormonal changes, many of which affect their appetite adversely.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a number conditions that cause breathing problems and airflow obstructions. The condition affects over 16 million people in the country. Moreover, more than a million more suffer from COPD, but their symptoms go undiagnosed and untreated because they misidentify it as other underlying complications. A cure for COPD is yet to be discovered; hence, learning about its early signs could help one in managing the condition. Chronic cough It isn’t uncommon for people to contract infections that lead to a cough. It usually goes away in a couple of days or weeks. Coughing is also a protective mechanism that may respond to irritants in the air that enter the lungs. A cough could also help remove mucus and phlegm. However, if the cough is persistent, and if one experiences a chesty cough that does not go away, it could indicate the onset of COPD. Healthcare experts usually consider coughs that last more than eight weeks to be chronic. So if one experiences this sign, they should consult with an expert immediately. Excess mucus production Mucus helps keep the airways lubricated, and attracts and captures germs and irritants that enter the lungs. But if there is excessive production of mucus, it may suggest the development of COPD. The inhalation of an irritant is one of the triggers for high mucus production. A few include dust, pollution, chemical fumes, paints, and strong cleaning products. Perfumes, hairsprays, and other spray cosmetics may also lead to excessive mucus production. So if one is at risk of COPD, one must reduce or avoid contact with such elements. Shortness of breath Shortness of breath could result naturally from overexerting in some form of physical activity like playing sports or exercising. However, if breathlessness occurs suddenly and unexpectedly, it could be a potential symptom of COPD.

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the inner lining of the esophagus. As the tumor grows, the cancer cells spread through the other layers. Sometimes, the cancer spreads to nearby organs as well, such as the liver, lungs, and lymph nodes. It progresses through multiple stages as different symptoms appear over time. Here are a few things to know about esophageal cancer signs, treatment, and risk factors to watch out for. Esophageal cancer signs In most cases, esophageal cancer is diagnosed only in the advanced stages. This is because the symptoms rarely show up in the initial stages. But, if there is a cancer risk, it is better to take preventive measures and watch out for the following signs. Chronic cough This symptom is generally experienced in the advanced stages of esophageal cancer. During this time, the esophagus becomes narrow with the growth of the tumor. This irritates the throat. Most people tend to experience frequent coughing, which can feel like something is stuck in their throat. However, chronic coughing can lead to a hoarse voice over time, which is a significant indicator of esophageal cancer. Trouble swallowing The growth of cancer over time also causes issues with swallowing. With the esophagus becoming narrow, food is obstructed to move smoothly through the food pipe. This makes it hard to swallow food comfortably. Over time, as the cancer advances, this symptom aggravates. A person starts to feel like the food they are eating is stuck in the throat. This can also cause choking in some cases. Pain in the chest Experiencing chest pain can be a sign of various conditions, ranging from heartburn to potential heart issues. It is rarely considered on its own to diagnose esophageal cancer. Still, it is important to make a note of chest pain if it occurs frequently and along with the other esophageal signs.

Stomach cancer refers to abnormal cell growth in the organ. Also known as gastric cancer, the condition progresses slowly and may eventually spread to the liver and pancreas. About 95% of stomach cancers develop in the cells of the stomach lining, whereas rarer types may originate in the lymph nodes or the connective tissue of the stomach wall. Recognizing the early signs of stomach cancer can help get a timely diagnosis and treatment. Signs The progression of stomach cancer is gradual, and those with this condition may or may not experience any early signs. The symptoms usually begin to appear only after the cancer begins spreading to other organs. The following are possible indicators that one has stomach cancer: Abdominal pain Severe abdominal pain is an early sign of stomach cancer. The pain may spread to the back in cases where the cancer is developing in the stomach’s lymph nodes. Stomach swelling If cancer spreads to the tissue lining the abdomen, one may observe swelling in the stomach. This swelling is caused by the accumulation of a fluid known as ascites. Diarrhea or constipation The spread of cancer cells to the small intestine can cause blockages, leading to diarrhea. In contrast, tumors in the abdomen may narrow the bowel, triggering constipation. Blood in the stool Although blood in the stools is a rare symptom of stomach cancer, it may sometimes be a sign of bleeding from the tumor. So, a doctor should be consulted immediately in case one observes blood in their stools. Nausea and vomiting The stomach is an integral part of the gastrointestinal tract. So, when the cancerous cells developing in the stomach spread to other organs, it may cause blockages, which can trigger nausea and vomiting. Anemia The bleeding associated with stomach cancer often leads to a reduction of red blood cell count or anemia.

A strong immune system is important to maintain one’s health. While there is no magical cure against infections, building immunity can help prevent several illnesses, or recover faster. Adding a variety of foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to one’s meals can help strengthen the immune system to fight off infection-causing pathogens. Here are 16 foods that can enhance immunity and help prevent illnesses. Red bell peppers Red bell peppers are one of the richest sources of vitamin C. A 100-gram serving of red bell pepper contains about 127.7 mg of vitamin C, which is 159 percent of one’s recommended daily intake. They are also a rich source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A. Due to their high vitamin content, red bell peppers are excellent for boosting immunity. Moreover, vitamin C helps keep skin healthy, while vitamin A contributes to healthy skin and eyes. Blueberries Blueberries contain a particular flavonoid called anthocyanin. This has potent antioxidant properties, which help strengthen the immune system, especially in the respiratory tract. According to studies, those who consume a healthy dose of flavonoids regularly are less likely to develop an upper respiratory tract infection in comparison to others. Broccoli A popular superfood, broccoli is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, fiber, and antioxidants, which help fortify immunity. To get the maximum benefit of its nutritional content, it is advisable to gently cook broccoli (by steaming or microwaving) or consume it raw. Spinach Spinach is another superfood that is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, and flavonoids. These nutrients and antioxidants help strengthen the immune system. It is advisable to lightly cook spinach to release nutrients from oxalic acid and for the easier absorption of vitamin A. Ginger A commonly used ingredient in recipes and healing traditions across the world, ginger has several anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties.

The immune system’s function is to protect the body from harmful substances and germs. It works to prevent different health disorders and infections. However, when the immune system weakens, one may experience several symptoms. This can happen due to poor nutrition, stress, aging, or health conditions. These symptoms are not always indicative of a weak immune system. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a primary care doctor whenever any of these are experienced. Frequent infections One of the primary signs of a weakened immune system is frequent infections. When the immune system loses its strength, it produces fewer white blood cells and antibodies, which are essential in battling pathogens that cause infectious diseases. A person with a deficiency of these substances becomes highly vulnerable to frequent infections, including sinus infections, colds, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. Wounds that heal very slowly Under healthy circumstances, an injury such as a cut, burn, or scrape makes the skin go into damage control mode. The body responds by sending blood that contains essential nutrients, white blood cells, and antibodies to the affected area, which kickstarts the healing process. As a result, new skin starts to regenerate. However, the healing rate depends on the immune cells’ health. If the immune system is weak, the functions of the body slow down, and the regeneration process can become sluggish, leading to delayed wound healing. Chronic fatigue If a person’s immune system is weak, they may experience chronic fatigue, which feels similar to the exhaustion caused by the flu. This may indicate that their body’s defenses are low. Symptoms include body pain and aches in muscles and joints, accompanied by a persistent feeling of exhaustion. Sometimes the fatigue is so severe that even basic daily activities become difficult. Rest or sleep may not alleviate the constant tiredness.