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4 unusually bad foods for those with diabetes
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4 unusually bad foods for those with diabetes

Diabetes is a common illness that can affect adults as well as children. If this health condition is not controlled, it can result in serious outcomes such as cardiovascular diseases and respiratory issues. Having a disciplined meal plan by eating healthy and avoiding junk foods can reduce the risk of type 1 and 2 diabetes. Here are four common foods that can adversely affect the health of those with diabetes: Carbonated and sweetened beverages Sugary drinks like sodas can be the worst choice for people with diabetes. Such beverages are loaded with fructose and contain several quantities of carbohydrates. The high amount of sugar in these drinks is rapidly absorbed by the body, resulting in abrupt metabolic changes. The subsequent release of excess insulin can be quite a problem when dealing with type 1 and 2 diabetes. Fatty liver, increased belly fat, and increased levels of harmful cholesterol are some of the issues that occur from having these beverages on a regular basis. Energy drinks also contain high amounts of added sugars and sodium, which is not a good option for people with diabetes. High-carb grains White bread, pasta, and white rice are low in fiber and high in carbs. Including such foods in your meal plan can result in increased sugar levels. These refined grains have a high glycemic index, which can lead to increased blood sugar levels. Swapping these with whole-grain alternatives reduces the risk of complications. High-fiber foods are your best bet as far as minimizing the risk of diabetes is concerned. An increased amount of roughage can promote the growth of gut bacteria that helps improve insulin resistance. Processed and preserved foods Most packed snacks and canned foods have a high amount of white flour as a core ingredient. For example, cookies, packed chips, and candies are mostly made up of processed carbohydrates, added sugar, and salt.
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6 plants that are poisonous to dogs
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6 plants that are poisonous to dogs

A number of decorative and garden plants are poisonous to dogs and puppies. Usually, your canine friend will steer away, but boredom and curiosity might lead to an accidental nibble, which can cause a myriad of complications and symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe. In this article, we have listed some of the poisonous plants that you might want to keep away from your furry friend. They are: Azalea Azalea is a flowering shrub that is often grown for its ornamental properties. However, its leaves, stems, and flowers have a potent neurotoxin known as grayanotoxin. This toxin can disrupt the ability of the cells and prevent them from functioning normally. If accidentally ingested, it can interfere with skeletal and nerve functions. It also interferes with the action of the heart muscle. Signs such as abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, and low blood pressure are indicative of azalea poisoning, which can lead to serious health issues. If your pet has accidentally ingested any part of this plant, contact the vet immediately. Hyacinth Hyacinth, although a gorgeous addition to your garden, is highly poisonous to your pets. The entire hyacinth plant is poisonous and irritant in nature, but the bulbs hold the highest quantity of toxicity called calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals form microscopic needles. When ingested, they can pierce the soft skin inside the mouth and the lining of the intestinal organs. Hyacinth consumption leads to instantaneous pain, which typically prevents dogs from eating a substantial amount. Whether symptomatic or not, if you have any suspicion that your dog has come in contact with this plant or it has the habit of biting everything, you should immediately contact a vet as a precautionary measure. Castor The castor plant belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Its active ingredient is ricin, one of the most potent plant-based toxins in the world.
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4 tips to get rid of fleas and ticks on dogs
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4 tips to get rid of fleas and ticks on dogs

Fleas and ticks are tiny, parasitic insects that live on the fur of their host animals like cats and dogs. These pests feed on the host’s blood as soon as they find a home on the animal’s skin. A tick or flea infestation can cause skin problems like itching, irritation, hair loss, and pale lips and gums. Here are a few treatment options, natural repellents, and tips for tackling an infestation: Treatment options Bravecto: This prescription treatment is available in oral and topical forms. It starts eliminating ticks within 12 hours and fleas within 2 hours. The oral treatment comes in the form of chewable meat-flavored tablets that can be easily eaten by dogs. Both the chews and the topical variant of Bravecto provide 12-week protection from fleas and ticks. Simparica: This is a monthly chew that claims to get rid of 100% ticks within 8 hours and fleas within 3 hours. Simparica can work against a variety of ticks and fleas, staying effective for a month to prevent reinfestation. One of its advantages is that the Simparica chewable can be taken without food. It is an oral prescription that helps kills the pests on the skin or fur of the dog. Advantix: Advantix is a topical solution that kills fleas and ticks on contact. This treatment option works against various insects, including fleas, ticks, sandflies, lice, stable flies, and even mosquitoes, and so, the risk of heartworm infection (caused by a parasitic worm carried by mosquitos) in dogs is reduced. Advantix is also recommended for dogs with a history of uncontrolled seizures. Food-based repellents Apple cider vinegar: A homemade solution containing one part apple cider vinegar and one part water can be sprayed directly onto the fur while avoiding contact with the dog’s eyes. A tablespoon of ACV can also be added to your pet’s water bowl to keep the insects away.
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7 common plants that are dangerous for cats
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7 common plants that are dangerous for cats

Being a cat parent is a beautiful experience. Their little meows can melt your heart and make you happy. However, caring for a pet is not easy. You might be surprised to learn that certain houseplants are highly toxic to cats. Ingesting or even coming into contact with these may lead to several symptoms, requiring an urgent vet visit in some cases. Below are seven such plants to keep away from your feline friend: Lilies There are several varieties of lilies, such as stargazer lilies, Easter lilies, Asiatic lilies, Japanese show lilies, and Western lilies. These are popular for decorating the home or growing on the front lawn. But unfortunately, almost all varieties of this plant are toxic to cats in different intensities. Ingestion of any part, even the pollen, can have severe consequences like kidney failure. So, if you suspect your cat has been in contact with a lily plant, get in touch with a vet to prevent an adverse event. Also, try to avoid lilies at home. Oleanders This beautiful flowering plant is common in places with warm weather. It is fragrant and easy to grow, making it suitable for the house. But oleanders have specific chemicals that affect the heart muscle of cats. As a result, they are at an increased risk of complications like arrhythmias, cardiac irritability, and depolarization. The common symptoms of ingestion are drooling, tremors, and diarrhea. Remember that all parts of this plant are toxic. This includes the water in which they are stored if planted at home. Sago palm This is another houseplant popular in warm climates but with several toxic compounds. While all parts of the plant can be dangerous, the seeds have the highest toxicity. Ingesting this plant can lead to severe health issues like vomiting, liver damage, liver failure, increased thirst, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, and bruising.
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3 handy tips for managing eczema
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3 handy tips for managing eczema

Eczema is a condition wherein the skin becomes red, dry, bumpy, itchy, and sometimes even blistered. A damaged barrier makes the skin sensitive and prone to dryness and infection. This condition can be caused by stress, genetics, environmental factors, or an overactive immune system. Various types of eczema affect around 31.6 million people in the country. Here are the treatment options, meal plans, lifestyle changes, and tips to remember when it comes to managing eczema: Treatment options for those with eczema Atomic dermatitis is a common type of eczema but can be quite a persistent condition if it’s left untreated. Such a skin disorder is also difficult to control if it is caused by family history. Although quite a few treatments for eczema are available, none of the options will help with completely eliminating the symptoms. Consult a dermatologist for the treatment options if a regular healthcare expert cannot help with the eczema symptoms. Dupixent Dupilumab, which is sold under the name Dupixent, is a highly effective prescription used to treat allergic diseases such as eczema, asthma, and nasal polyps that lead to chronic sinusitis. This treatment option helps manage and reduce the symptoms of eczema, such as itchiness and the appearance of rashes. Cibinqo In 2022, the FDA approved Cibinqo as a treatment for adults with refractory, moderate to severe eczema, or atopic dermatitis. This option is specifically prescribed for people whose symptoms cannot be controlled through other treatments. Upadacitinib Moderate to severe cases of eczema in adults and children aged 12 years and above are treated with Upadacitinib. Moreover, when previous treatments have not provided the desired results or other options cannot control their condition, Upadacitinib is prescribed. Eucrisa This steroid-free option was the first FDA-approved topical prescription treatment for eczema in over a decade. Eucrisa is used to treat people with mild-to-moderate eczema.
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4 effective ways to manage a migraine attack
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4 effective ways to manage a migraine attack

A migraine is a severe headache usually experienced on one side of the head. The condition is prevalent, affecting around one in seven people worldwide. Besides a headache, there can be other symptoms, too, such as sensitivity to light and sound. It can result from a lack of sleep, stress, hormonal changes, low blood sugar, and dehydration. While there is no cure, the following treatments, food plans, lifestyle changes, and remedies help manage migraine attacks: Treatment options There are several treatments for migraines, but the common ones are Nurtec ODT, UBRELVY, Excedrin, and QULIPTA: Nurtec ODT It is used for treating and even preventing migraine attacks. Nurtec ODT works by blocking specific receptors in the brain responsible for pain sensation. The treatment relieves common symptoms, such as headache, vomiting, and pain. UBRELVY It is recommended for treating migraines in adults and not for prevention. UBRELVY works by blocking a protein that is pivotal in causing migraine pain. The treatment begins to work quickly, and patients find relief within an hour. But it must be used after consulting with a doctor. Excedrin It effectively treats migraines and even other headaches and pains, such as muscle pain and arthritis. Excedrin contains a combination of compounds that relieve the symptoms of these ailments. One can consult a doctor to determine the correct dosage according to their condition. QULIPTA QULIPTA is used for preventing and reducing the frequency of migraine attacks. It does so by blocking a natural protein in the brain that usually causes the problem. The dosage can differ from person to person, so it is best to speak to a doctor before using this treatment option. Foods to eat and avoid Proper nutrition is essential to manage any ailment, and migraines are no exception. Below are a few foods that can help:
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Avoid these 5 things before bed for better sleep
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Avoid these 5 things before bed for better sleep

Sleep deprivation can create havoc on your mental and physical well-being. Some people struggle to get sufficient sleep due to sleep disorders. Meanwhile, some may have trouble sleeping due to a worn-out mattress, watching television until late, or using a smartphone before bedtime. As a result, people may not be as productive in the morning. If you want to doze off quickly and have a sound sleep every night, avoid these five things: Avoid using digital devices Exposure to bright screens, such as television, smartphones, laptops, and tablets just before bed can make it difficult to fall asleep. The light emitted from these digital screens prevents the brain from releasing melatonin. This hormone helps the body relax, which, in turn, allows you to fall and stay asleep. Avoid any screen time at least one or two hours before going to bed. It might be tempting to check text messages, work emails, or make a call, but all these activities can sabotage your sleep. Even a quick check can stimulate the brain and make you alert. Also, if you see something that upsets you and causes stress and anxiety, it can leave you staring at the ceiling for hours. Instead, choose calming activities such as reading a book or practicing meditation to help you wind down before sleeping. Avoid exercising in the evenings You might think that exercising in the evening will drain you of energy and make it easier to fall asleep. But the reality is that exercising close to bedtime can impact your sleep schedule negatively. Working out in the evenings may make you feel energetic and increase your heart rate. This will make it difficult for your body and mind to settle down and prevent you from falling asleep and sleeping through the night. Exercising also raises your core body temperature, and you will naturally find it harder to fall asleep.
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3 tips for dealing with Parkinson’s
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3 tips for dealing with Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease is a neurogenerative disorder in which nerve cells, which produce the hormone called dopamine, break down or die. This can lead to tremors, slowed movement, issues with speech, impaired balance, and stiffness of the limbs, among other symptoms that develop over time. There is no cure for this condition, however, one can take steps to relieve the symptoms. So, here are a few of the treatment options, foods, and tips to manage Parkinson’s: Treatment options Doctors recommend treatments that can increase or substitute dopamine in the body and help reduce symptoms. Here are a few options for Parkinson’s disease: Levodopa: Developed in the 1960s, this is the most prominent treatment option for Parkinson’s. The brain converts levodopa into dopamine, replacing the missing hormone and controlling the symptoms. It is usually prescribed with carbidopa to avoid side effects like nausea and vomiting. Carbidopa: This, when combined with levodopa, is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It mainly prevents the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream before it reaches the brain, so carbidopa has on its own has no effect on the body. Ongentys (opicapone): This is classified as a COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) inhibitor and works by preventing COMT, an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body, from breaking down levodopa. So, Ongentys is prescribed as an add-on to prolong the effects of other treatment options. Opicapone is sold under the brand name Ongentys and is an FDA-approved option to treat Parkinson’s symptoms. Rytary: This oral treatment option is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa. Rytary is prescribed to help manage symptoms like slowed movement, imbalance, shakiness, and stiffness. Foods to eat and avoid Specific nutrient-rich food items that are required for the brain to function properly are essential when diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Some of the foods that help in managing the symptoms are:
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3 effective ways to manage osteoporosis
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3 effective ways to manage osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that leads to brittle and weak bones. In extreme cases, it can also cause fractured bones with minor falls and minimal stress on the limbs. Osteoporosis occurs regardless of age or gender; however, it is more common in postmenopausal women. A stooped posture or recurring back pain are common signs of this bone disease. Here are the treatment options, meal plans, and tips to help alleviate the symptoms of osteoporosis: Prescription options for the treatment of osteoporosis Prolia ® The generic name for Prolia ® is denosumab. It slows down the rate at which bone loss occurs by stopping the development of bone-removing cells, thus maintaining its strength. Prolia ® belongs to a class known as monoclonal antibodies. It is administered in the form of an injection and can be prescribed for women with postmenopausal osteoporosis or men with osteoporosis facing a high risk of fractures. EVENITY ® This is an FDA-approved anabolic treatment option for osteoporosis. EVENTIY ® boosts the ability of the body to build new bones and also slows down the rate of bone loss. It is administered via injection for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who are at high risk for fractures. It is also considered when women cannot use other osteoporosis prescriptions, or they do not work on them. Foods to eat and avoid for bone health Aside from prescription options like Prolia ® and EVENITY ® , eating foods that are good for bone health and making the right lifestyle changes also help improve osteoporosis. Calcium-rich foods Foods that contain high calcium levels are great for improving the overall health of the bones. A balanced meal plan for an adult should have about 700g of calcium in it on a daily basis. Food options such as cheese, milk, tofu, soya beans, and green veggies like broccoli are good sources of calcium.
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3 tips to manage prostate cancer
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3 tips to manage prostate cancer

The prostate is a gland located below the bladder and produces the seminal fluid that makes up the semen. Prostate cancer occurs when the cells in the inner lining of the walnut-sized gland begin to grow uncontrollably. The risk factors include poor nutrition, high BMI, exposure to cadmium in factories, a sedentary lifestyle, and family history. Here are the treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes to help manage prostate cancer: Treatment options Some of the treatment options that are recommended to treat this type of cancer are: XOFIGO ® This is a chemotherapy treatment option used for prostate cancer when the cancer cells have spread and affected the bones, causing pain. XOFIGO® is injected slowly and intravenously for over a minute. It is administered under supervision, and its dosage depends on the physician’s recommendation. The tumor-targeting part of the therapy helps XOFIGO® fight only the tumor cells, leaving the healthy cells undamaged. Some side effects of this treatment option are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain, swelling of the legs and hands, dehydration, impaired kidney function, and allergic reaction. Enzalutamide Enzalutamide is a treatment option used for those with advanced prostate cancer. It is an androgen suppressor that stops the growth and spread of cancer cells. Without this hormone, the cancer cells are unable to grow. It delays prostate cancer symptoms like bone problems and pain. Enzalutamide can help prolong the life of a person with advanced prostate cancer that has spread to other body parts. Common side effects of this treatment option may include fatigue, headaches, high blood pressure, itchy and dry skin, restless leg syndrome, muscle pain, diarrhea, and memory problems. Foods to eat and avoid Some foods can help manage the symptoms of prostate cancer and alleviate pain, while others can worsen the condition. Here are some foods to eat and avoid during prostate cancer treatment:
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