Several conditions can cause poor circulation in the body, including stress, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Poor circulation may also result from low blood count, wherein the body fails to produce the necessary red blood cells (RBCs) in a day. Furthermore, a low blood count can lead to symptoms like numbness, digestive problems, and cramps. So, here are a few healthy foods that help increase blood count and improve circulation. Foods to increase blood count Eating healthy results in several health benefits. Here are some foods that can help raise the red blood cell count in the body: Cherries Cherries are rich in vitamin C, which compliments iron absorption by the body. Eating cherries can result in an increase in red blood cells in the body. Egg yolk Yolks contain folic acid, which is essential as it helps maintain hemoglobin levels in the body. Red meat Red meat, like beef, lamb, and pork, promotes healthy blood levels. These foods contain iron that is easily absorbed by the blood. The process helps improve hemoglobin levels, which improves the production of red blood cells. Dairy products Moderately having cheese and milk benefits the heart and regulates blood levels. Milk alternatives like soy and almond milk also help improve blood count. Foods for better blood circulation It is equally important to eat foods that improve blood circulation. Some of these foods include: Garlic One should add garlic to their daily meals because it is rich in allicin, which boosts immunity. Studies show that the regular habit of adding this allicin-rich herb soothes the blood vessels and promotes blood flow in the tissue. Beetroots Beetroots are known for their nitrate content, which helps blood circulation. The element helps improve the flow of blood and compliments blood pressure. Beetroots are also known to reduce inflammation of the blood vessels and increase nitric oxide levels in the body.

When the immune system misidentifies and targets good gut bacteria, the cells that line the colon, and food, it can lead to ulcerative colitis. The condition drives the white blood cells to attack the colon lining and trigger symptoms like irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the large intestine. While ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, adding certain foods to one’s meals and following some treatment options may help manage the condition. Foods for ulcerative colitis Nut butters A good source of proteins and healthy fats, nut butters like peanut butter, cashew butter, and almond butter may help manage any flare-up that may result from ulcerative colitis. Peeled and cooked veggies Peeled and cooked vegetables are soft and contain less insoluble fiber, making them less irritating to the gut. A few foods to consider are carrots, spinach, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes. The vegetables are abundant in nutrients like vitamins A and K, which can help reduce the effects of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a type of ulcerative colitis. Yogurt Fermented foods like yogurt are rich in probiotics that contain healthy bacteria. Such bacteria aid the digestive system and reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms and flare-ups. But one must steer clear of flavored yogurt as its sugar content may worsen symptoms. Salmon Salmon is a rich source of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These properties are known to curb inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis. Other fish rich in omega-3s include shrimp and tuna. Treatments for ulcerative colitis Ulcerative colitis symptoms can be managed with certain treatment options, such as: STELARA® (ustekinumab) STELARA® is a prescription treatment for children who are six years and older and adults with moderate to severely active ulcerative colitis. Patients injected with the treatment may find quick relief from their symptoms within eight weeks. Entyvio® (vedolizumab) Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis are given Entyvio when other treatment options do not work efficiently.

You can get the best deals on Medicare health insurance policies during specific periods in the year. Similarly, there are some norms associated with the purchase of this insurance. As per the rules and regulations levied by Medicare, you’re not allowed to buy health insurance plans at the same rates around the year. This brings up the question, when is the best time to buy Medicare supplement plans? Read along to find out more about this. Buy on first eligibility The best time to get yourself a Medicare supplement plan is when you become eligible to make the purchase for the first time. The initial 6-month window is listed as the most favorable time to buy Medigap supplement plans from the official Medicare website. This window will open when you turn 65 years old and are already enrolled in the Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance). During this period, you can buy Medicare supplement plans that are sold in your state. You can make the purchase even if you have a pre-existing health condition. On the expiry of this 6-month period, you might not be allowed to purchase a Medicare supplement plan. Even if you are eligible for coverage, it might cost you a lot more than the original price of the policy. Buying a Medicare supplement plan during the enrollment period If you try to buy a Medicare supplement plan during the enrollment period, or any other period, the insurance companies will assess your application by using a medical underwriting. The insurance companies use this to determine the charges of Medigap insurance. However, this does not mean added scrutiny. During the initial period, the charges for applicants with good health and a health problem are the same. Conditions for purchasing Medicare supplement plans Here are some examples of different situations under which the conditions for purchasing Medicare supplement plans will differ:

Depression is a growing concern among health care workers as well as the populace. The fact that the condition is not restricted to a demographic makes it even more difficult to deal with. Being mindful about the food being consumed or daily habits have proven to be beneficial for depression and other mental health conditions. Here are three foods that work tirelessly towards better management of depression and its symptoms. Sweet potato Sweet potatoes are a staple of many festive meals. But research shows that they may just be the perfect food for all seasons. Sweet potatoes are rich in many nutrients such as vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber. They are also rich sources of magnesium, which is known to reduce the levels of stress and anxiety in the body. Lower levels of magnesium have been linked to depression and insomnia. The complex carbohydrates present in sweet potatoes are also known to improve one’s mood, making it an ideal food source to manage depression symptoms. Dark chocolate Chocolates are considered unhealthy in most cases, but if it is the dark and unsweetened kind, it has several health benefits, especially for people with a mental health condition. The large quantities of antioxidants found in a bar of dark chocolate not only help manage stress but also lends a helping hand in managing anxiety and depression. A small bite of dark cocoa can also go a long way in improving one’s mood, managing depression, and its symptoms. Green vegetables Green vegetables make up for nutrient deficiencies. They also help one meet their fiber needs and lower inflammation in the body. The folate content of these vegetables is responsible for enhanced dopamine and serotonin production, helping manage symptoms of depression better. However, there are times when a multidisciplinary treatment approach is required. In such cases, health care professionals can choose to prescribe some medications to their patients.

The American Academy of Dermatology has stated that 80 million men and women in the country suffer from hereditary hair loss, one of the most common types of hair loss. On a positive note, hair loss can be stopped or reduced considerably with certain changes in hair treatment or the diet. Certain foods can promote hair growth and improve the quality of hair, and healthy hair in men also increases their confidence. Here are the best foods to promote healthy hair growth in men: Eggs Eggs are an amazing source of protein and biotin, two nutrients that can promote hair growth. Hair follicles are made up of protein and biotin is known to promote keratin, which is responsible for hair growth. Green leafy vegetables Dark leafy vegetables like spinach are rich in iron and can contribute to hair growth. Iron deficiency can cause hair loss, making iron an important nutrient to be incorporated into the daily diet. Iron is also found in red meat like beef, but one should keep in mind that eating too much red meat can increase the risk of developing heart diseases due to their high fat content. Salmon Fish like salmon are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and healthy fats like these help in keeping the hair lush and healthy. These fatty acids are also known to help activate the sebaceous glands in the scalp, which, in turn, promotes a healthy scalp and healthy hair. Shrimp, sardines, green beans, almonds, and walnuts are some other sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. These items can be included in meals or snacks as these are some of the best foods for healthy hair growth in men. Carrots Carrots are rich in vitamin-A, which promotes cell growth. They also encourage sebum production in the scalp, which results in better hair growth and reduced chances of dry scalp.

Overactive bladder, also commonly known as OAB, is characterized by the frequent and sudden urge to pass urine, which cannot be controlled. Those with this condition may also experience urgency incontinence or unintentional loss of urine. One’s eating habits can help a great deal in managing an overactive bladder. On that note, here is a list of four foods to avoid or restrict to reduce the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Foods to avoid Citrus fruits like oranges Fruits with high concentrations of acid are considered to be trigger foods for those with an overactive bladder. The acid in oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes irritates the inner lining of the bladder. Hence, it is essential to consume them in moderation. The list also covers juices and lemonades. Caffeine Caffeinated beverages are among the most common foods that contribute to an overactive bladder. The caffeine in tea and coffee acts as a bladder stimulant and increases the frequency of passing urine. It is advisable to lower the consumption of caffeinated beverages to avoid aggravating the symptoms of bladder incontinence. Artificial sweeteners Foods rich in sugar and artificial sweeteners like sodas, pastries, icecreams, and sugar-free desserts should be avoided or limited. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sodium saccharin, and acesulfame K, which are usually used in frozen desserts, increase urinary frequency and urgency. They irritate the bladder and aggravate the symptoms of OAB. Soft drinks Soft drinks contain caffeine, sweeteners, and carbonation. Besides caffeine and sweeteners, carbonated drinks belong on the list of things that should not be consumed by those with an overactive bladder, as they aggravate the condition. There are other ways to manage bladder incontinence in addition to foods and fluids that should be restricted from one’s food regime. These include Gemtesa and Myrbetriq, which are prescribed by a doctor to reduce the symptoms of the condition.

Multiple sclerosis is a prevalent neurological disorder where the immune system destroys the nerves’ protective covering. Those with this health condition must follow a proper nutrition plan apart from doctor-recommended treatments for a better quality of life. Poor food habits can lead to inflammatory changes, worsening the disease and increasing the intensity and frequency of symptoms like fatigue and cognitive alterations. Here are a few foods to avoid when suffering from multiple sclerosis. Saturated fats Research suggests multiple sclerosis symptoms can aggravate if one consumes too much animal-sourced saturated fats. Therefore, one must avoid foods like beef and pork. These foods can also increase cholesterol levels as well as the risk of cardiovascular diseases, leading to further complications. It is recommended to have not more than 13 grams of saturated fats daily, including plant-sourced saturated fats. Sugar One should make a conscious effort to avoid items high in sugar, such as candy and cake. These foods can lead to massive fluctuations in blood glucose levels, leading to fatigue and worsening symptoms. Refined sugar is more harmful and can have severe consequences. Managing blood sugar can get tricky since specific treatments for this condition also lead to spikes. Hence, one can consult with a doctor to create a low-sugar meal plan based on their situation. Processed foods Processed foods have numerous additives that increase their shelf life while modifying their flavor and color. Additives damage the intestinal mucosa, weakening the natural immune system. And since immune balance is crucial for preventing or slowing down the progression of multiple sclerosis, processed foods should be avoided. A few examples include tinned vegetables, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks. Refined grains Like sugar, refined grains cause a spike in blood glucose. Unsurprisingly, they are branded as one of the worst foods for this disorder. Constant blood sugar spikes damage the myelin sheaths on neural cells, leading to neural dysfunction.

In most asthma cases, food allergies and intolerances will trigger inflammation or result in the narrowing of the lung airways. An estimated 19 million individuals in the country have mild to moderate asthma, and it is vital for them to monitor their food intake. Drastic changes in daily eating habits will not necessarily help; however, moderation lowers the risk of flareups. Here are 4 such foods that trigger breathing difficulties for those with asthma. 4 foods that worsen breathing issues in asthma Foods high in fat content Red meats are heavily processed and contain saturated fats, which leads to an increase in LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels in the body. Most saturated and processed fats tend to worsen symptoms like inflammation, causing difficulty breathing. The risk is especially high among people who suffer from conditions like asthma or COPD. Dairy foods and beverages Whole milk (the full fat variant) can trigger excess mucous production when the body breaks down the dairy product during digestion. Mucous buildup in the lungs increases the risk of infection and worsens the inflammation linked to asthma flareups. Preservatives and artificial sweeteners Most foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket are laced with preservatives and additives to increase their shelf life. These include different types of sulfites found in pickled foods and snacks, frozen seafood, and dried fruits or vegetables. Additives can trigger asthma flareups. Also, one of the more commonly used artificial sweeteners, aspartame, is the leading cause of food allergies that develop with asthma. Foods that are rich in salt Excess consumption of salty foods leads to an imbalance in sodium levels in the body. This increases the risk of edema, which is a fluid buildup that leads to swelling, causing blood pressure levels to rise. High blood pressure results in pulmonary hypertension, one of the risk factors associated with common respiratory disorders.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the esophagus. This condition can make it difficult to swallow and easier for food to get stuck in the food pipe. People with EoE develop allergic reactions to certain foods, causing their esophagi to swell up and become narrow. Doctors may recommend an elimination method to understand which foods trigger EoE in patients. The most common foods that trigger Eosinophilic Esophagitis are: Eggs: Apart from whole eggs, also avoid any foods that contain eggs, such as eggnog, mayonnaise, meringue, surimi, and egg substitutes. Beware of egg content in baked goods and puddings. Ingredients to watch out for in packaged goods include albumin, lysozyme, ovalbumin, lecithin, globulin, and ovovitellin. Wheat: Avoid foods rich in wheat, such as bread, couscous, crackers, most flours, pasta, and pizza crusts. Wheat ingredients to look out for are bulgar, durum, einkorn, emmer, farina, Kamut, matzoh, semolina, spelt, and triticale. Instead, opt for gluten-free foods made from potato, rice, or tapioca. Soy: Soy-rich foods to avoid include edamame, miso, natto, shoyu, soy sauce, soybean, tamari, tempeh, tofu, and Quorn. Soy ingredients can be found on packaged goods under the name of soy, soy flour, soy fiber, soy protein, and textured vegetable protein. Peanuts and tree nuts: Avoid all nuts and lychees. Watch out for ingredients like nut meal, nut meat, nut milk, nut extracts, nut paste, and peanut oil in packaged/pre-cooked foods. Fish: Avoid all fish and shellfish like krill, barnacle, crab, crayfish, lobster, shrimp, and prawns. Ingredients to avoid include imitation fish, fish stock, fish sauce, seafood flavoring, surimi, and bouillabaisse. Dairy: Milk and milk products to avoid include cheese, butter, cream, custard, cow’s milk, half-and-half, pudding, sour cream, and yogurt. It is also advisable to avoid ingredients like casein, diacetyl, lactalbumin, lactose, lactulose, recaldent, rennet casein, tagatose, and whey.

Flu season is a time of worry for everyone. The symptoms are difficult to deal with and can leave you drained of energy. During this period, it is essential to keep the kitchen stocked with foods that can help fight off the flu and prevent severe symptoms. Thankfully, most flu-fighting foods are readily available and can be incorporated into daily meals. Therefore, relying on food to avoid the aggravation of flu symptoms is easy. Turmeric Turmeric is among the most efficient foods to relieve flu and its symptoms. Its primary component- curcumin – is known for its immunity-boosting and antibacterial properties. It also helps decongest the throat, lungs, and respiratory passageways. Garlic Adding garlic to the food helps fight off various infections. The compound allicin found in garlic can help maintain a strong immune system while fighting off viruses. All you have to do is add a little garlic to your meal plan. Ginger Ginger has numerous medicinal properties. It is known for its help in reducing nausea, inflammation, and vomiting. Flu patients can relieve their symptoms by adding ginger to their tea or ginger root to their food. Honey Honey is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties and considerably assists in unblocking the upper respiratory tract. Raw honey is also beneficial for other flu symptoms, such as soar throat and itching. Adding raw honey to warm water or other fluids helps find relief from cough and throat inflammation. Chamomile tea Good sleep is essential to fight off any illness and recover better. Adding chamomile tea to the menu of flu patients helps keep up their hydration levels while assisting them in clocking in better sleep. Plus, sipping hot liquid helps thin the mucus and decongest the patient’s nasal passage. Chicken soup The magical ability of chicken soup to ward off flu symptoms is famous.