What you eat impacts your hair’s health. Hair loss affects a significant portion of the population, irrespective of age. The numbers increase as we go up the age ladder. Of course, this can be due to aging, underlying health conditions, and other things, along with a lack of nutrition. Nutritionally poor foods can cause loss of hair density, poor growth, and weaker hair strands. So, here is a list of foods to eat for healthy hair. Eggs Eggs are a superfood, and for good reason. They are rich in biotin, protein, vitamins A and E, calcium, and iron. They are also an incredible source of omega-3 fatty acids. These ingredients are excellent if you want to accelerate hair growth and strengthen it. The biotin content enhances their keratin production, leading to better hair health. Spinach Everyone knows how critical spinach and other green vegetables are for anyone who wants a healthy mind and body. Spinach is a rich source of iron and loaded with multiple vitamins, which can assist in growing a healthier mane. Iron improves the quantity and quality of Red Blood Cells (RBCs), aiding in better oxygen supply to every cell in the body. Vitamin C is known to increase the absorption and availability of iron in the body. All of these make spinach a must-have food for people who wish to improve their hair health. Sweet potato Sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthy way of ensuring your meals are packed with calcium, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Thanks to their long list of healthy nutrients like beta-carotene, they are also considered a superfood. The body converts the available amount of beta-carotene into vitamin A. Since it is important for cell growth, including foods rich in vitamin A or compounds that lead to increased production of the vitamin is beneficial for healthy hair.

Whether one needs to prepare for a busy day ahead or unwind after a hectic one, a warm bath is the way to go. A warm shower can be highly therapeutic, enhancing one’s mood instantly and offering several health benefits, including boosting immunity and ensuring cold and pain relief. However, not bathing right can trigger or worsen skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing or showering: Avoiding exfoliation Although the body naturally gets rid of dry skin cells and develops new ones, exfoliation removes excessive dry skin cells and facilitates glowing skin. Hence, it is advisable to use a scrub or chemical exfoliator at least once in 10 days. This product should be applied in a circular motion throughout the body for 10 seconds and then rinsed off with lukewarm water. Bathing in extremely hot water If the water temperature is too high, it can cause damage to the keratin cells located on the skin’s outer layer. Hence, it is important to regulate water temperature before stepping into the shower. Lukewarm water typically works best for one’s skin. Showering for a long time Although showering can help relax one’s body and mind, especially after a long day, bathing for too long can de-moisturize the skin and increase one’s risk of developing skin conditions. Hence, one should avoid showering for more than 15 minutes to prevent dry skin. Washing hair every day It’s best to avoid washing hair on a daily basis as this can lead to dryness and breakage in the long run. Excessive use of shampoo can strip the hair of its natural oils and spoil its texture. Thus, one must limit hair washing to twice or thrice a week. Scrubbing the scalp with fingernails The scalp typically contains oily skin, flakes, and dust; hence, washing the scalp regularly is essential to ensure a clean scalp.

Those who menstruate often deal with a heavy period flow. Heavy menstrual bleeding that lasts over 7 days is called menorrhagia—a common concern that causes blood loss and cramping. If left unattended, it can lead to complications like anemia and pain in the abdomen and pelvic region. Excessive bleeding can disrupt daily activities due to low energy levels and discomfort. However, one can manage heavy periods by making certain lifestyle changes and better food choices. Key tips Women may experience a heavy period flow once in a while; however, persistently heavy periods can interfere with daily activities and lower energy levels. One should consult a healthcare professional to understand the causes and treatment for menorrhagia. Additionally, one can try the following easy hacks to cope with heavy period flow: Make a period care kit The length of a period cycle can differ slightly for everyone. But on average, a cycle is anywhere between 28 and 35 days. So, by keeping track of the cycle, one can plan ahead to minimize discomfort during periods. One of the easiest ways to reduce the discomfort is preparing a period care kit, especially if one is away from home on their period. To the kit, one can add necessities such as tampons, pads, a change of clothes, hot water bottles, and, if needed, some comfort food. Further, sweaters or long-sleeved jackets are great additions to the period care kit, as they can be tied around the waist in case of any accidents during the day. If tampons and pads are inconvenient, one can add period underwear and menstrual cups to the kit to manage the heavy flow. Get enough rest Once the menstrual bleeding begins, it can last anywhere from 4 to 7 days. During this time, one loses a little blood (2 to 3 tablespoons), making them feel tired during the day.

Monthly periods can last from two to seven days and can cause some manageable discomfort. However, an increasing number of people are being diagnosed with conditions that make their menstrual cycles painful and unmanageable. Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common experience for most people, which includes pain, lack of focus, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, nausea, and more before their period. Certain habits could be contributing to this discomfort on a regular basis. Not taking pain relievers proactively The time to reach for a pain relief remedy is when one feels the first twinge of pain when the period is due. However, most people tend to wait until the pain is on the verge of governing the rest of the day. Reaching for the prescribed painkiller when the lower stomach or pelvis area is on the initial hint of discomfort is far more effective than losing the energy and draining oneself with pain before considering taking something for it. Remedies and treatment are far more likely to be effective when the pain is mild rather than when it has intensified, curving one into the fetal position. This is especially important if one has conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, adenomyosis, or other complications that worsen the periods. Using too many feminine hygiene products Our bodies are capable of maintaining their pH levels and fighting off infections without the use of feminine hygiene products. Using these products, such as fragranced tampons, pads, and cups, can disrupt the vaginal pH balance and increase the risk of painful and itchy yeast infections. Instead, it’s best to use products that simply soak up period blood and avoid anything that could lead to bacterial vaginosis. Remember, the vagina can balance itself naturally, so it’s best to let it do its job without interference from unnecessary products. Not changing the tampon often Irrespective of the type of period product one uses, leakage mishaps are a constant concern.

Cholesterol is a wax-like substance that is naturally present in every body cell. It supports cell-building function, is necessary to produce certain vitamins, and regulates hormones linked to various body functions. However, excess blood cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Changing one’s daily nutritional intake is one of the ways to control high cholesterol; this can be done by introducing the following foods and snacks to the meal plan. Whole grains Oatmeal is a rich and nourishing breakfast choice that can help lower cholesterol levels with regular consumption. The grain is rich in soluble fibers that naturally help reduce the absorption of bad cholesterol into the blood circulation. This lowers the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the bloodstream and prevents the arteries from clogging. It helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and stroke. Oatmeal is also one of the simplest snacks to make, and it can be topped off with fresh fruits and your favorite condiments. Apples Daily eating a few apple slices can considerably decrease low-density lipoprotein. Apples contain a soluble fiber called pectin that helps foods bind and increase stool density to improve bowel movement. This type of soluble fiber also lowers and controls the amount of fat released into the bloodstream. Essentially, these functions ensure the LDL levels don’t spike due to the over-absorption of fats from foods and beverages consumed. Fatty fish Omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in lowering triglyceride levels in the bloodstream. This is a type of fat that triggers an increase in cholesterol. So naturally, lower levels of triglycerides manage to keep cholesterol levels in check. At the same time, omega-3s boost the production of healthy fats called high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL absorbs excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it back to the liver to be processed out.

According to statistical data, over two million women in the country go through menopause annually. Menopause is a significant biological phase in the lives of menstruating individuals, impacting their physical, mental, and emotional health. This phase typically occurs between 45 and 55, with the average age being 51 years nationwide. Consulting a gynecologist can help one understand menopausal symptoms and seek timely treatment if required. Here are the stages and early signs of menopause: Stages of menopause Menopause is often classified into three major stages: Perimenopause Perimenopause is the phase in which the body naturally transitions to menopause. The perimenopausal phase typically lasts from 40 to 44 years of age. However, the duration of perimenopause differs between individuals. While some people may experience perimenopause only for a few months, others may have a perimenopausal phase over the years. Menopause Menopause typically starts a year after one’s last period. Sometimes, it may also begin after a clinical procedure to terminate one’s period, such as a hysterectomy or removal of the ovaries. Postmenopause Postmenopause refers to the years following menopause. In this phase, women may continue to experience menopausal symptoms briefly, even while not menstruating. Early signs and symptoms of menopause Here are a few early signs of menopause, of which one should be aware: Irregular periods During the perimenopausal phase, the ovaries typically release fewer hormones than usual, leading to irregular periods. Hot flashes A reduction in estrogen levels during perimenopause results in the excessive secretion of other body hormones, causing an increase in body temperature and triggering hot flashes. Hot flashes refer to sudden, intense flashes of warmth in several body parts, including the neck, chest, and face. These flashes may be accompanied by sweating. Night sweats An increased body temperature due to hormonal imbalances during perimenopause can also lead to bouts of profuse sweating, particularly at night.

A healthy home environment involves recognizing and minimizing potential health hazards. This includes being aware of certain household items that can trigger respiratory problems. You may not be able to completely stop using some of these products, such as cleaning supplies, paints, etc. However, you can take a few precautions while using them to minimize the health risk to your lungs. Here’s a comprehensive list of household products that are harmful to lung health. Aerosol sprays Many household products come in the form of aerosol sprays. Certain makeup products at home, such as hair sprays, also are packaged in aerosol sprays. While this type of packaging makes it easier to use these products, they are harmful in the long run. These sprays usually have volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as key ingredients. These compounds release harmful chemicals into the air in your home. When there is prolonged exposure to these sprays, there can be occurrences of lung disorders and respiratory health problems. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets Fabric softeners and dryer sheets make it convenient to do laundry. However, it is important to be wary of certain brands of these products. Make sure to read the label and avoid anything that contains chemicals that release VOCs. When released into the air, these compounds can lead to short-term respiratory issues, allergies, asthma, and lung irritation. A better alternative to these household products is to use wool dryer balls and natural fabric softeners such as baking soda or vinegar. Natural organic fabric softeners are also a healthier choice. Cleaning products To maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of a home, cleaning products are the most essential items. However, most of these products, particularly floor cleaners, toilet cleaners, and window cleaners, contain chemicals. These include ammonia, chlorine, and bleach. These chemicals release toxic fumes. Prolonged exposure to these can cause respiratory issues and lung disorders.

A trusted gynecologist can help in treating any illnesses and preventing the onset of illnesses by giving the right advice and tips on health. It is important to be honest with your doctor about any illness and symptoms that you may be experiencing that cause discomfort. While some questions may seem embarrassing, it is vital to ask them regardless to help in recovery and understanding the health condition. Here are 6 uncomfortable questions to ask your gynecologist. What does vaginal discharge indicate? Vaginal discharge is normal and healthy. A fluid flows out of the vagina daily, and this is the genital’s way of cleansing itself. This is an entirely natural process and is the body’s way of keeping the vagina healthy and bacteria-free. The discharge varies from woman to woman. Usually, the discharge is more when the woman is in her fertile phase, and it is usually milky or white and odorless. This indicates that nothing is wrong. If the discharge is too thick and white and is followed by other symptoms like vaginal itching, soreness, burning, or even pain, this could indicate a yeast infection. Sometimes if the discharge is yellow or gray and is followed by symptoms like fishy odor, vaginal swelling, and itching, it could indicate bacterial infection. There is no shame in speaking to a gynecologist about these symptoms, as they can only provide proper treatment once they have all the information. Does my vulva look normal? It is extremely normal to be curious about the vulva. Questions like is it too big, too small, or too dark are expected. The right answer is that the vulva is different in every female, and hence there is no right kind of vulva. Until and unless an individual experiences any symptoms that point to an illness, the vulva is just as it is supposed to be and healthy.

Muscular dystrophy causes the loss of muscle mass. Over time, the muscles lose their strength. Muscular dystrophy generally refers to a group of over 30 genetic conditions. Abnormal gene mutations cause these debilitating conditions. The mutations interfere with the normal production of proteins. As a result, there is a disruption in the generation and regeneration of healthy muscle mass. Each of these conditions has its own set of symptoms. Here are some common signs to watch out for based on the type of muscular dystrophy: 1. Duchenne-type muscular dystrophy This is one of the most common types of muscular dystrophy. It is mostly observed among children assigned male at birth (AMAB). However, those assigned female at birth (AFAB) may also be at risk. Most of these symptoms appear during childhood. Finding it difficult to get up from a sitting or lying position Showing signs of delayed growth Falling frequently Experiencing difficulty jumping or running Walking on the toes Waddling gait Experiencing muscular stiffness and pain Having enlarged calf muscles Becker muscular dystrophy This is another common type of muscular dystrophy. Most of the signs of this condition are nearly identical to those of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. But the severity of the symptoms is milder. Also, the progress of the symptoms is slower in Becker muscular dystrophy. In most cases, most of these symptoms start showing during the teenage years. But sometimes, symptoms only appear in adulthood, i.e., after the mid-20s. Common signs of this type of muscular dystrophy include the following: Walking gets difficult over a period of time Walking up the stairs gets harder Having a low tolerance for exercise Experiencing frequent muscle pain and spasms Showing a tendency to walk on toes Feeling fatigued Myotonic muscular dystrophy This type of muscular dystrophy is commonly diagnosed in adulthood. Men and women are both at equal risk.

Moderate sugar intake is considered safe; after all, many foods, such as fruits, naturally contain sugar. Further, the body uses sugar to produce energy. However, a persistently high intake of sugar can harm health. This excessive intake is usually brought on by heavy dependence on packaged and highly processed food, ready-to-eat meals, baked goods, and other products containing refined sugar and additives. Here are common signs indicating high sugar intake: Persistent sugar cravings Surprisingly, one of the most common signs of high sugar intake is constant cravings for sugary foods. This leads to over-indulgence in sugary snacks and desserts such as cookies, candies, packaged cakes, doughnuts, and flavored yogurt. This sign usually develops as a high intake of sugar causes an increase in the level of ghrelin, a hormone that is associated with an increase in appetite for sugar goods. Joint pain The excessive intake of sugar leads to an increase in the level of cytokines in the tissues of the body. These substances induce inflammation in the joints, and persistently high levels of inflammation can lead to chronic pain in the region. Frequent mood swings Sugar intake causes a release of certain chemicals in the brain that are related to pleasure and happiness. In addition, they can cause a sudden burst of energy. Under normal circumstances, the energy levels come down after a while without any adverse effects. But when sugar intake is high, the burst of energy is bigger, leading to a steep energy crash. This fluctuation is also responsible for the release of stress hormones, further contributing to mood swings. High blood pressure Excessive sugar consumption can also cause hypertension or high blood pressure. Those who regularly have sweetened beverages and sugary foods may experience high blood glucose levels. This can damage the blood vessels and lead to an increase in cholesterol levels.

Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being, and what one eats plays a significant role in it. While many specific foods and beverages promote strong teeth and gums, others can harm them. Learning more about dental health and avoiding foods that can harm the teeth is essential to understanding oral health better. Below are the top 14 foods that are detrimental to one’s teeth and must be avoided. Candies Candies are one of the primary culprits when it comes to dental problems. Sugars serve as food for harmful bacteria in the mouths, producing acids that erode tooth enamel. Hard and soft candies and chewy gummy treats are particularly harmful. Overconsumption of these sweets can result in cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Sodas These beverages are packed with sugars and acids, creating a perfect storm for dental problems. The sugars nourish bacteria in the mouth, while the acids can erode tooth enamel. Even sodas, although sugar-free, can be harmful due to their acidity. It is best to minimize the consumption of sodas to protect the teeth from its harmful effects. Gummies Sticky and chewy snacks like gummy candies and caramels are not ideal for dental health. Not only are they packed with sugars feeding harmful bacteria, but they also stick to the surface of teeth, making it difficult for saliva to wash them away. To prevent the negative impact of gummies, brushing and flossing meticulously after snacking on them is essential. Additionally, incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots into one’s meals can help keep the teeth healthy. Hard candy Chewing on ice or hard candies can lead to dental emergencies like cracked or chipped teeth. To protect the teeth, avoiding chewing on hard objects is crucial. If one has the habit of crunching ice, consider using ice substitutes like crushed ice or chilled beverages to satisfy cravings.

Living with arthritis can be challenging. The pain and discomfort induced by inflammation can cause a lot of hindrance in daily activities. However, eating a meal plan rich in anti-inflammatory foods can significantly help manage symptoms. And the best way to start is with the most important meal of the day, i.e., breakfast! Eating the right combination of foods for breakfast can make a big difference in managing inflammation and promoting overall joint health. So here is a list of breakfast options specially designed to help combat arthritis inflammation and start the day on a positive note: 1. Fruits with yogurt One of the best ways to start the day is with a refreshing and inflammation-fighting combination of fresh fruits and yogurt. Greek yogurt is high in protein, omega-3 fats, which help fight inflammation, and probiotics, which promote good digestion. To make this satiating and wholesome, combine the Greek yogurt with fresh fruits like berries. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries taste excellent with yogurt and are rich in antioxidants, which aid in reducing inflammatory symptoms. Yogurt can also be paired with fresh pineapples, which contain anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, since these fruits and berries are naturally sweet, adding artificial sweeteners can be avoided. 2. Avocado toast Avocado toast has become a beloved breakfast trend for a reason. It is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for those looking to combat inflammation. Avocados have anti-inflammatory properties thanks to their monounsaturated fat content. Furthermore, one can choose toasted multigrain bread to pair with the avocados. The high fiber content of multigrain bread also aids in reducing inflammatory symptoms. Avocado toast is also fairly easy to make. All one must do is spread mashed avocado over freshly toasted multigrain bread. To make it even better, it can be topped with a sprinkle of chia or flax seeds, which are also anti-inflammatory.