When it comes to vision health, conditions like macular degeneration must be taken seriously. Nearly 20 million people in the country are believed to be living with this condition. If left unchecked, this chronic eye disorder can trigger vision problems and may lead to blindness sometimes. However, by making changes to one’s nutritional regime, one can delay its symptoms. Listed below are some safe foods and unhealthy foods to avoid while dealing with macular degeneration. Macular Generation Macular degeneration is a severe eye condition that affects the retina’s central part, called the macula. The macula is responsible for the sharp, clear vision required for reading and driving. In macular degeneration, the cells in the macula start to break down, leading to a loss of central vision. It can make seeing fine details, recognizing faces, or reading small print difficult. Sometimes, vision loss can progress and become more severe with time. Macular degeneration occurs in two types- Dry macular degeneration, the most common type, is characterized by the slow breakdown of the macula over time. Wet macular degeneration is less common but more severe and is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the macula that can leak blood and fluid and cause rapid vision loss. Foods to eat to manage macular degeneration Kiwi Kiwi contains vitamins A and E and carotenoids (natural color-giving pigments) that help with vision health. Research indicates that these naturally occurring compounds may slow the progression of macular degeneration symptoms as they offer the same functionality as antioxidants. Eating kiwi can also help with eye health by lowering oxidative stress (oxygen imbalance), which can cause cell damage. You can cut it up as an evening snack or blend it into a smoothie. Spinach Eating spinach can help treat macular degeneration symptoms by providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Managing high blood sugar is essential to avoid serious health issues like diabetes or heart disease. However, you must first learn what high blood sugar (or hyperglycemia) is. Recognizing the signs of high blood sugar and the foods that can cause a spike helps prevent CKD type 2 diabetes. This article will discuss what constitutes high blood sugar levels and which foods to avoid to keep your numbers in check. What is high blood sugar? High blood sugar (or hyperglycemia) occurs when the blood has too much sugar (glucose). Glucose is the body’s primary energy source, but too much of it in the bloodstream can cause damage to the body’s organs and tissues. Usually, the hormone insulin helps to regulate the amount of glucose in the blood by allowing it to enter cells and be used for energy. However, when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it properly, glucose can build up in the blood, resulting in high blood sugar. If left untreated, high blood sugar can cause serious health problems, including nerve damage, kidney damage, and even blindness. Thus, it’s essential to monitor blood sugar levels and consult a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar. Symptoms of high blood sugar Frequent urination When there is too much sugar in the body, the kidneys may be unable to filter it out, resulting in frequent urination. Consequently, you may frequently feel thirsty. Fatigue High blood sugar can cause fatigue and weakness, as the body’s cells may not be getting enough glucose for energy. Blurred vision One of the side effects of hyperglycemia is blurred vision because the excess sugar causes fluid to be pulled from the lenses in your eyes, making them unable to focus correctly. Headaches High blood sugar can cause headaches resulting from dehydration or changes in blood flow to the brain.

Eczema is a prevalent health condition that causes skin dryness and itchiness. While the symptoms’ severity can vary from person to person, they are generally uncomfortable and frustrating. Health experts recommend various treatments, lifestyle changes, and home remedies to manage flare-ups. This post takes a closer look at the common symptoms that help identify eczema and a few simple home remedies to help patients relieve discomfort and improve their quality of life. What is eczema? Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and scaly patches that can appear anywhere on the body. As per estimates, one in ten individuals in our country is said to have some form of the disorder. Health researchers do not know the exact cause of eczema. However, they believe that allergens (like soaps and artificial fragrances), environmental irritants (like dust and pollen), genetics, and psychological stress play a role in its development. Treatment for this ailment often includes creams and moisturizers containing special ingredients and lifestyle changes like avoiding harsh soaps and stress. Early warning signs of eczema While eczema is generally a lifelong condition, it can be managed with treatment. Before starting treatment, one must have a confirmed diagnosis. The following are a few signs that help experts identify the disorder: Itchiness Itchiness is perhaps the telltale symptom of eczema. It can affect different parts of the body and can vary in severity from person to person. For some, itching can be so intense that it interrupts sleep and interferes with everyday activities. Many treatments and home remedies, such as cool showers and moisturizers, help reduce the itchiness caused by the disorder. Dry skin Dry skin is an often overlooked symptom that can be mild or severe. It is usually accompanied by white flakes and raw, cracked, or blistered patches on the skin, which can be painful and itchy.

Exhaustion, shortness of breath, and persistent pain in the back or elsewhere in the body are potential signs of multiple myeloma—a common type of cancer that affects the bone marrow. Sadly, many people overlook these symptoms, leading to a delayed diagnosis and treatment. This blog takes a closer look at the signs of multiple myeloma and the foods one should eat and avoid with this condition for a better prognosis. What is multiple myeloma? Multiple myeloma is a variation of blood cancer that develops in the plasma cells of the bone marrow. These cells are responsible for producing antibodies to ward off infection and disease. When affected by this condition, plasma cells become abnormal and divide rapidly. They crowd out healthy blood cells with time, damaging surrounding bones, organs, and tissues. Sometimes, they also form tumors in the bone marrow and other body parts. The tumors can cause bone pain, weakness, fractures, and other symptoms like fatigue, recurrent infections, and anemia. What causes multiple myeloma is not fully understood, but genetics, environment, and lifestyle are said to play a role. Cumulative exposure to radiation, especially ionizing radiation, has been suggested as a prevalent cause. Research has also highlighted that age and gender are potential risk factors; the condition is more likely to affect people over 65, and men are more likely to develop it than women.  Signs of multiple myeloma The following are a few symptoms that might help identify the condition. Those who experience these should visit a healthcare expert for further investigation into the cause: Numbness or tingling Multiple myeloma can sometimes cause nerve damage, leading to numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Skin lesions or rashes In rare cases, one may experience itchy, painful, or discolored lesions (abnormal tissue growth) and rashes on the skin.

The thyroid is an essential part of the endocrine system responsible for hormone secretion. Thyroid cancer is a disorder that affects the thyroid gland and is frequently challenging to identify in its early stages due to the absence of obvious symptoms. Consequently, recognizing early thyroid cancer warning signals is essential for early detection and effective treatment. Thyroid cancer is one of the fastest-growing cancers among women today. This article covers 6 early warning signs of thyroid cancer. What is thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones called thyroxine and parathyroid that regulate the body’s metabolism. Additionally, it regulates the amount of calcium in the body. In thyroid cancer, abnormal cells can form a lump or tumor in the thyroid gland. Some types of thyroid cancer grow very slowly and may not cause any symptoms for a long time, while others may grow more quickly and spread to other body parts.  Treatment for thyroid cancer may involve surgery to remove the thyroid gland, as well as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer. Moreover, lifestyle changes, such as eating more proteins and less trans fats and exercising regularly, may alleviate the severity of the symptoms. Most people with thyroid cancer can be cured with early detection and treatment. 6 silent signs of thyroid cancer Thyroid cancer may be difficult to notice initially. However, detecting it early is imperative for receiving the necessary treatments to treat the thyroid tumor. Thus, one must look for the following silent signs of thyroid cancer. Most of these signs may be benign, but being cautious and consulting the physician helps confirm/deny the presence of the tumor.

Hyperkalemia (high potassium in the blood) is a common condition caused by kidney malfunction, excessive potassium intake, or certain treatments. It’s important to monitor your potassium levels closely and take the necessary steps to prevent hyperkalemia from occurring. Eating the right foods can help manage the condition and reduce symptoms such as muscle cramps and fatigue. This article will explore the best foods for managing hyperkalemia and various aspects of the condition. What is hyperkalemia? Hyperkalemia is an electrolyte imbalance health condition where the amount of potassium in the bloodstream is elevated above normal levels. Its symptoms may include weakness, palpitations, nausea, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing. Depending on the cause and severity of one’s hyperkalemia, it may be treated with food changes and treatments to help regulate the body’s potassium levels. Extreme cases can lead to health complications, including stopped heartbeats, heart attack, or cardiac arrest. Thus, you must talk to your physician if you suffer from the condition. What are the reasons for hyperkalemia? Kidney problems The kidneys play a vital role in regulating the level of potassium in the blood. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, they may not be able to remove excess potassium, leading to hyperkalemia. Adrenal gland disorders The adrenal glands produce the hormone aldosterone that helps regulate potassium levels. Disorders of the adrenal glands, such as Addison’s disease, can result in hyperkalemia. Excessive potassium intake Consuming too much potassium through food or supplements can lead to the condition. Hemolysis The breakdown of red blood cells, known as hemolysis, can release potassium into the bloodstream and cause hyperkalemia. Acidosis Acidosis is when the body’s pH becomes too low. It can cause potassium to shift from cells into the bloodstream, leading to the disorder. Tissue damage Injuries or trauma that cause tissue damage can release potassium from cells and into the bloodstream, leading to hyperkalemia.

Do you ever dread that time of the month, with period pain making it difficult to focus on anything else? It’s common for women to experience uncomfortable cramps and bloating before the start of their menstrual cycle. However, natural ways, such as hot water bags and certain foods, can help somewhat manage the discomfort. Check out ten healthy food items one can incorporate into one’s daily meal plan for managing period-induced cramps and body pain. What is period pain? Period pain (dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps) is common for many women during their menstrual cycle. This pain varies in severity and tends to be felt in the lower abdomen and pelvic area. The primary cause of period pain is contractions of the uterus during menstruation, which may affect daily activities, such as walking, working out, or concentrating, if severe. In some cases, hormone imbalance (high prostaglandin levels) or heavy bleeding can contribute to the intensity of pain experienced. Period pain typically occurs in the days leading up to or during menstruation. PMS, or pre-menstrual syndrome, usually involves cramps and other uncomfortable physical symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, sore breasts, and headaches. Thus, managing this pain becomes imperative, especially when you have important events to attend, such as going to work/school or heading out for grocery shopping. Foods to eat to relieve period pain Lentils Lentils contain isoflavones and phytoestrogens that mimic the effects of estrogen (which the body needs to reduce cramps) and help reduce inflammation. Eating lentils regularly can relieve cramping and other symptoms associated with period pain. They are also great for increasing iron levels in the body, which in turn helps to reduce fatigue, one of the most common symptoms associated with periods. Quinoa Quinoa is a grain-like seed with essential nutrients proven to combat period pain and mood swings.

Vision problems, numbness, and extreme fatigue are potential warning signs of multiple sclerosis, a prevalent autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. The condition is said to impact around 2.5 million people worldwide. While multiple sclerosis cannot be cured, it can be managed to the extent that it does not significantly affect a person’s routine activities. This post discusses five common early warning signs of multiple sclerosis one should look out for.  What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies healthy cells as a threat and attacks them. The reason behind this faulty immune response is not fully understood, but it is thought to be linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. In multiple sclerosis, the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the myelin sheath, a protective layer surrounding nerve fibers in the CNS. This damage disrupts the transmission of nerve impulses, leading to various neurological symptoms and deteriorating health. Doctors typically diagnose the health condition by examining a person’s health history and performing imaging tests like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and lumbar puncture (spinal tap). Treatment usually involves modifying the immune system, managing symptoms, and reducing the frequency and severity of relapsing multiple sclerosis. Relapsing multiple sclerosis is a type of multiple sclerosis that keeps recurring after periods of partial or complete recovery. Around 85% of people who develop multiple sclerosis are initially diagnosed with the relapsing type. Early warning signs of multiple sclerosis Most people with the condition can manage their symptoms and lead full, productive lives with the help of treatment, lifestyle changes, and support from healthcare providers and loved ones. However, before opting for treatment, one must know the symptoms and get a confirmed diagnosis:

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition characterized by red patches, white scales, itchiness, and discomfort. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis. While there is no cure for this condition, certain treatments and lifestyle habits can help manage the condition. This article will look in-depth at the signs of psoriasis, foods to eat and avoid for managing this irritating skin condition, and the available treatment options, along with home remedies. What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a health condition in which patches of red and inflamed skin develop on certain body parts, most commonly the arms, legs, scalp, and torso. These patches cause itchiness and discomfort. Often, even regular moisturizing does not provide enough relief. Psoriasis usually has an autoimmune element that causes an overproduction of skin cells; therefore, it cannot be cured. However, the condition can be treated with prescription or special creams to help manage the symptoms. Those with psoriasis may have varying levels of severity at different times, such as when exposed to certain environmental factors or stressors. Fortunately, mental health practitioners can help those with psoriasis better cope with the condition. What are the symptoms of psoriasis? These are common symptoms of psoriasis: Red patches on the skin with thick, silvery scales Itching or burning sensation Dry or cracked skin Pain or discomfort in affected areas Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails Swollen, sore, or stiff joints Fatigue or a general feeling of discomfort Depression or anxiety Worsening symptoms during periods of stress or illness 6 foods to manage psoriasis One of the methods of managing psoriasis is eating the right anti-inflammatory foods. The following foods are healthy and help manage psoriasis better. Fatty fish Mackerel, salmon, sardines, and other fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation. Leafy greens Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and kale are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that can help reduce inflammation.

For individuals diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, managing their meal plans can be crucial in maintaining their overall health. The foods they consume can significantly impact their respiratory function and quality of life. Fruits, vegetables, and optimal hydration are necessary to keep pulmonary fibrosis in check. The right dietary choices can help reduce inflammation, improve lung function, and alleviate symptoms. Therefore, this article will explore foods that can help manage pulmonary fibrosis and maintain optimal health. What is Pulmonary Fibrosis? Pulmonary fibrosis is a lung disease that causes the development of fibrous, scar-like tissue in the lungs, making it harder for the lungs to work correctly. Over time, this scarring can become widespread, causing the lungs to lose their ability to expand and contract effectively, leading to reduced blood oxygenation. Cystic fibrosis is a similar condition but develops in people since birth, thickening mucus in the lungs and making breathing difficult. The most common symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis are: coughing shortness of breath fatigue chest pain a dry cough and losing weight unintentionally The progression of the disease varies from person to person, and in some cases, the symptoms can develop rapidly, leading to acute respiratory distress (fluid build-up in the lungs). Causes and treatments for Pulmonary Fibrosis The causes of pulmonary fibrosis are not fully understood, but several factors have been identified as potential triggers. These include: exposure to environmental toxins such as silica and asbestos certain prescriptions autoimmune disorders genetics While there is currently no permanent cure for pulmonary fibrosis, treatments are available to manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Moreover, cystic fibrosis medical treatment involves a range of interventions to manage symptoms and slow the condition’s progression. These treatments include: Prescriptions such as immunosuppressants and antifibrotic drugs reduce lung inflammation and slow scarring. Oxygen therapy may also be necessary to improve breathing and reduce the risk of complications.

For those living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), meals play an important role in helping maintain overall health and comfort. Food choices can significantly impact their ability to deal with the disease. Further, adding nutrient-rich foods to meal plans today can help ensure better kidney function in the long run. So, here are a few foods that should be added to the nutritional regimen when dealing with chronic kidney disease.  What is chronic kidney disease? Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. It typically develops gradually over a long period and can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, swelling, and changes in urination. The causes of CKD include high blood pressure, diabetes, and inherited conditions. Unfortunately, CKD often goes undiagnosed until it has progressed to an advanced stage, leading to serious complications such as kidney failure and the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant. As CKD progresses, it begins to affect vital organ functions until it ultimately develops into kidney failure. In advanced cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be required to replace the lost function of the kidneys. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of this common health concern early on is key to preventing further health problems. Treatment for CKD typically focuses on managing the condition’s underlying cause and preventing further kidney damage. This may involve lifestyle changes such as eating healthily, exercising regularly, and undergoing treatment to control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Further, adding the following foods may help alleviate the condition. Best foods for CKD Cauliflower Cauliflower is a great option for managing chronic kidney disease when eaten raw or boiled. It is low in potassium (only 176 mg in a 1-cup serving), which increases blood sugar, worsening CKD symptoms.

A healthy nutrition plan is essential for individuals diagnosed with lung conditions like obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Certain foods help promote better breathing and improve energy levels while supporting the immune system. This post will explore five nutrient-rich foods experts recommend for those suffering from COPD to improve the symptoms and better manage the condition. But first, let us take a closer look at what COPD is and how it is caused. What is COPD? COPD is a respiratory ailment that affects the lungs. When someone has this condition, the air passages in their lungs become narrow and damaged, making it harder for air to flow in and out. As a result, the individual experiences difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. It can also cause other symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. The disorder can result from numerous factors, such as genetics and exposure to harmful pollutants and chemicals. COPD is a chronic condition, which means it usually worsens with time. However, some treatments help manage the symptoms and slow the disease’s progression. A few examples are oxygen therapy and lifestyle changes like avoiding pollutants, exercising, and practicing breathing techniques. Increasing the intake of certain nutritious foods may also help alleviate the symptoms. Foods to eat for managing COPD Patients may incorporate the following foods into their nutrition regimen to better manage the disease: Cheese Cheese is an immunity-boosting food for those with COPD, high in vitamins B12 and A. Vitamin B12 helps break down proteins essential for forming red blood cells. On the other hand, vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining healthy mucus membranes throughout the body. Cheese also has probiotics—good bacteria that aid digestion and help keep the immune system strong. Due to these properties, cheese can benefit people with respiratory issues like COPD. It is important to note that cheese is also high in saturated fats and can increase inflammation if eaten excessively.