Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes tenderness and swelling of joints due to inflammation. There are many types of arthritis, but joint pain and stiffness are common symptoms noticed in older adults. The symptoms worsen with increasing age. Although arthritis has no cure yet, its symptoms can be managed. Various remedies can be used to alleviate the symptoms. Some foods can even help in easing inflammation. Listed below are seven such foods. Garlic Foods from the allium family like ginger and onions have proven more than effective for arthritis patients. Garlic, especially, is well-known in the fight against multiple diseases. The compound diallyl disulphide present in it limits the count of cartilage-damaging enzymes. Additionally, garlic enhances certain immune cells that help strengthen the immune system. Fish Known for their high protein content, fish have also proved useful in greatly reducing inflammation due to arthritis. Fishes like salmon, mackerel, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which, according to experts, is a lethal weapon against arthritis and its related symptoms. Experts recommend three or four ounces of fish twice every week. Apples Apples should be an imperative part of your diet especially if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. They are packed with nutrients and vitamins of multiple forms. The fruit is a great source of vitamin C and fiber, while the phytochemicals in it act as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Whole grains Like apples, whole grains also help reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. The food lowers C-reactive protein levels (CRP) in the blood. Barley and bulgur provides extra nutrients and fiber. Whole grains are antioxidants and rich-source in vitamin B. Nuts Similar to garlic, nuts are an excellent source of protein, calcium, and magnesium, among others. They are also rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is important for boosting the body’s immunity.

A person is said to experience shortness of breath when they have difficulty breathing normally. In most cases, the discomfort is mild and easily managed with simple steam inhalation to unblock nasal passages. Alternatively, it could be a complication that arises out of underlying conditions that needs timely intervention with prescription and lifestyle changes. Here are five effective suggestions to manage mild to severe shortness of breath at home and under professional care. Mindful breathing techniques Deep breathing exercises are largely effective and help manage shortness of breath in the short term. This is because deep breathing involves the use of the abdominal diaphragm muscles to expand more and allow the lungs to fill up with more oxygen. However, it is necessary to learn the correct technique to avoid the risk of hyperinflation due to excessive breathing. Another common technique is pursed lip breathing. Experts suggest keeping only a small gap between both lips while keeping them pursed to regulate the airflow. Adjusting sitting or standing posture Any sudden shortness of breath caused due to anxiety or overexertion can be managed by simply correcting your posture. For example, lying down with the knees and head supported by multiple pillows can help relieve airway pressure. A table can also be used to adjust the posture. For instance, leaning forward in a sitting position while placing the head on the desk at a comfortable angle can help ease breathing. Even standing near the table using the hands to support and take off the weight from the legs can also ease circulation. Another position is to lean against the wall to correct air flow while breathing deeply. Basically, any position that relieves air pressure is advisable to overcome sudden shortness of breath as a temporary cure. Using an external airflow accessory Small battery powered fans can come in handy to overcome sudden shortness of breath.

The prostate gland is one of the crucial organs in the reproduction system that produces and provides fluid to protect the sperm. However, advancing age, family history, even certain vitamin or mineral deficiencies can trigger prostate problems, thereby affecting its function. Fortunately, it is possible to maintain a healthy prostate by making lifestyle changes and including some nutrient-dense foods in the meal regimen. Here are the top foods that keep the prostate healthy. Foods to eat Sesame seeds Those with lower levels of zinc in their body are at a high risk of developing prostate problems. Sesame seeds are a rich source of this mineral. It is better to include the seeds in one’s meals, as the body can absorb these nutrients better than zinc supplements. You add sesame seeds to soups, salads, and dips. Leafy greens Green vegetables are loaded with antioxidants, phytochemicals, essential vitamins, and minerals, making them one of the top foods for a healthy prostate. These compounds help lower the inflammation in the prostate. Cruciferous vegetables also reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, Bok choy, and cauliflower are excellent choices to add to one’s meals. Fruits like berries Tomatoes are rich in a compound called lycopene, essential for a healthy prostate. It helps slow down the progression of prostate-specific antigens (PSA), linked to inflammation, and prostate cancer. You can puree the fruit and make a paste, sauce, or juice to allow the body to absorb these compounds more efficiently. Berries, rich in antioxidants, further help lower the oxidative stress caused by free radicals that may trigger mutation of healthy cells. Blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are loaded with anthocyanins that are beneficial for prostate health. Fatty fish Fish is loaded with polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, one of the key nutrients that lower the risk of prostate enlargement and counter inflammation.

Migraines are a severe type of headache that can cause extreme pain in the form of throbbing or pulsing sensations, usually on one side of the head. Based on research, healthcare experts conclude that certain risk factors may worsen the symptoms of migraines. Prominent triggers are also determined by the city in which one lives. So factors like their lifestyle, weather and associated changes, and temperatures can vary based on the particular geographical location. St. Louis, MO One of the primary reasons why St. Louis makes the list of worst cities for migraine management is the lifestyle. Here, people usually have extremely busy schedules, due to which they might also be more stressed compared to those in other cities. Stress is a common trigger for migraines. Augusta, GA When a storm hits the city , cold and warm air mix, leading to changes in barometric pressure. These variations are often known to trigger or worsen symptoms of migraines. Augusta is constantly subject to such changes, so a person dealing with migraines should avoid moving here. Cincinnati, OH Cincinnati is home to multiple tourist attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. However, people affected by migraines who live in the city may notice their symptoms worsen frequently. The condition is triggered due to the unpredictability of the weather conditions in Cincinnati. The city is subject to frequent temperature fluctuations and records a yearly average of extremely cold or hot days. Knoxville, TN Knoxville in Tennessee is known as Marble City because of the rock quarried from the region. The rock has been used in buildings like the Knoxville Museum of Art and the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. But Knoxville and several other cities in Tennessee are subject to irregular barometric changes that result in frequent storms.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the leading health complications affecting millions of adults in the country. The condition often goes underdiagnosed and is detected only during the advanced stages when the symptoms flare up. The kidneys take only 30 minutes to filter all the blood flowing across the body, indicating how vital kidney function is for survival. Here are the causes, symptoms, and treatments for better diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease. Causes Underlying health conditions leading to CKD include type 1 or type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation of the kidney filter units, inherited kidney diseases, enlarged prostate, and recurrent kidney infections. These complications affect the organ’s ability to purify the blood and flush out toxins from the body. In rare cases, an injury to the organ can also force the kidneys to shut down. The severity of symptoms will vary mainly depending on the underlying cause. Symptoms Kidney disease symptoms are often misdiagnosed due to overlapping medical conditions with similar symptoms. High blood pressure A sudden unexpected increase in blood pressure could indicate problems with the kidney. It is because the organ is responsible for blood purification. If the kidney cannot remove the toxins and waste from the blood, it can trigger high blood pressure. Anemia Anemia is a health condition when the body lacks red blood cells to carry fresh oxygen. It happens when the kidneys cannot produce a specific hormone called erythropoietin (EPO) linked to the production of red blood cells. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting are mainly triggered due to uremia, a developing complication of injury to the organ, or severe kidney disease. Also, a person developing CKD symptoms will slowly lose their appetite. Weakness and fatigue It is common for someone with CKD to feel tired and exhausted without any explanation.

Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that gradually affects one’s memory, communication, and judgment. The symptoms may interfere with one’s daily routine. Dementia can be challenging to diagnose as many of its symptoms overlap with other health conditions, and it has no permanent cure. However, early diagnosis can help one be better prepared to manage the disease. So doctors advise learning about and recognizing the following seven early signs of dementia. Memory loss and confusion Loss of memory, reduced comprehension, and inability to make decisions are common problems people with dementia may experience. The affected person becomes more and more forgetful and may have isolated incidents where they can’t remember or recall things. There is no consistent or identifiable pattern for this kind of memory loss, as the severity of the condition varies from person to person. At the advanced stages, one might start asking the same questions over and over again, even when they have been answered. Feeling disoriented Disorientation affects a person’s ability to navigate a familiar or known space. Being unable to adjust and adapt to the surroundings is another early sign of dementia. Symptoms can range from forgetting one’s way home or losing their general sense of direction to difficulty following directions or gauging distance. One might misplace things more frequently, forget their way to the supermarket or a known destination, or struggle with easy directions and routes. Changes in mood Dementia is a progressive disorder that affects one’s cognitive function. So, personality and behavioral changes are inevitable. Increased feelings of anxiety, fear, and confusion may start to develop. One may experience frequent mood swings and struggle to get through the day. Common changes include losing interest in favorite activities, developing an irrational suspicion, and poor judgment. All these changes result in poor decision-making and trouble adapting to one’s surroundings.

A healthy blood count and proper blood circulation prevent many common ailments, including heart disease. A drop in one’s blood count can lead to a drop in one’s energy levels, hair thinning or loss, problems with concentrating, anemia, or even mental health disorders. Alternatively, poor blood circulation can contribute to digestive issues, cognitive impairment, and muscular cramps. Apart from treatment options and lifestyle changes, some foods can help maintain healthy hemoglobin levels. What improves blood count and circulation? Vitamins A, B12, and B9 and iron-rich food support healthy hemoglobin levels and fight anemia. On the other hand, vitamin C is another essential nutrient since it aids the absorption of iron into the body. Including foods rich in iron and vitamin C in daily meal plans are especially beneficial for women during pregnancy and menstruation. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins B, K, C, and E, also enhance blood circulation. Similarly, potassium or vitamin K keeps the blood vessels healthy and prevents inflammation. Here are some superfoods that support heart health, boost blood count, and improve blood flow: Pomegranate juice Pomegranate is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and is known to prevent arteries from hardening. The antioxidants primarily assist in dilating blood vessels and aid in smoother blood flow. The juice is a concentrated pulp of the fruit and packs maximum essential nutrients. Beetroot Similar to pomegranate, beetroots have the ability to widen arteries and improve blood flow throughout the body. Beets contain many essential nutrients, including magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and iron, which regenerate blood cells. Additionally, the vegetable also carries a natural chemical called nitrate. The body converts this nitrate to nitric oxide, a substance that expands blood vessels. These are especially beneficial to those with blood pressure, a health concern where one’s arteries are partially clogged.

Migraine headaches cause severe throbbing pain, typically on one side of the head. They may also lead to nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. These headaches can affect one’s daily routine depending on the severity. While many things can cause a migraine episode or worsen the symptoms, some foods act as a common trigger. The reactions to these foods may occur immediately or within 24 hours of intake. Aged cheese Aged cheeses like Swiss, Parmesan, Brie, and cheddar are rich in a natural chemical called tyramine. High amounts of tyramine can lead to a migraine headache, as it interferes with the functioning of blood vessels. Tyramine has also been linked to high blood pressure. Other foods rich in tyramine are pickled and fermented foods like kimchi, kombucha, pickled okra, or pickled jalapenos. Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, pineapples, berries, and tomatoes are also foods to avoid with migraines due to the presence of tyramine. Caffeine The role of caffeine in managing migraine headaches is ambiguous. It can trigger headaches if consumed in excess or when experiencing withdrawal. At the same time, caffeine has been associated with the treatment of migraine headaches in some cases by the American Migraine Foundation. Studies have looked into the usefulness of caffeine in combination with other treatments to relieve these headaches. To avoid caffeine-triggered migraines, people must carefully watch their caffeine intake. Beverages rich in caffeine include tea, coffee, soft drinks, and energy drinks. Chocolate According to the American Migraine Foundation, chocolate is among the biggest triggers of migraines, affecting around 22 percent of patients. Chocolate contains beta-phenylethylamine and caffeine. An increased concentration of beta-phenylethylamine in the body is reported to restrict cerebral blood flow, leading to the development of a migraine. Migraine sufferers may also have a reduced ability to break down monoamines like phenylethylamine, thus triggering headaches.

Heartburn is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Here, fluids in the stomach flow back into the esophagus, causing pain and irritation. This is a direct result of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) not being able to hold back digestive juices after letting foods and beverages pass through the stomach. Certain foods and beverages can trigger heartburn and so should be avoided when dealing with GERD or a similar condition. Allium vegetables Onions, garlic, and shallots are allium vegetables rich in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (or FODMAPs). With the intake of high FODMAP foods, the fermentable fibers react with gut bacteria to produce stomach acid. So, excessive intake of such foods can trigger the overproduction of stomach acids that leak into the esophageal cavity. Citrus fruits Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are naturally rich in acidic content that churns up stomach acids. The digestive juices back up into the esophagus, triggering irritation. This can be brought on by an imbalance in the pH levels the body needs to maintain for digestion. Even tomatoes can trigger acid reflux when eaten raw in a salad or pureed to make a sauce. So, citrus fruits can increase the acidity in the stomach, making them key foods to avoid for managing heartburn. Bananas and melons are acceptable substitutes that can also help provide quick relief from the reflux. Processed foods Processed foods are laced with saturated fats, trans fats, and additives to improve their taste and shelf life. However, highly fatty foods affect digestion and force the LES to relax. This can make the stomach acid back up into the esophagus. Common fatty eats to avoid include French fries, potato chips, fried snacks, dairy products, salad dressing, and extremely fatty cuts of deli meats. Nutritionists instead suggest adding more fiber-rich foods to promote digestion to prevent flare-ups.

Did you know that the issue of acne plagues approximately 10% of the world’s population? While not everyone experiences extreme acne, there are other skin concerns that keep minds racing. This is a huge reason the skin care industry has grown by leaps and bounds. But this only leads to excessive availability of products that causes even more confusion. It is essential to acknowledge the fact that the food we eat has a direct reflection on our skin. Dairy Some research studies have shown a link between dairy intake and dairy products with acne in teens. Sadly, some brands of cow’s milk even have small levels of growth hormones in them. This is in addition to the insulin spikes caused by milk. The elevated insulin levels in the body also give rise to the amount of cortisol circulating through the blood. This cortisol then binds with sebaceous glands leading to increased sebum production. It proves that milk might not directly lead to acne, but it can give rise to genetic aspects in people with existing predispositions. Candy Candy and other sugar-laden foods are the enemies of healthy skin. The American Academy of Dermatology states that reducing the intake of sugar and sugary foods, in general, can contribute to better elastin and collagen production in the skin. Research suggests that high sugar intake in the body can damage skin molecules and result in aging signs like sagging and wrinkles. Fast foods Fast foods are notoriously famous for negatively impacting skin health. The number of oils in these foods can easily lead to increased levels of inflammation in the body and give rise to issues like increased blood cholesterol levels and increased blood pressure. The high inflammatory levels can also impact the skin and cause greater damage by free radicals. To avoid skin that looks aged and dull, it is important to avoid foods like fries, chips, deep-fried burgers, and snacks for better skin.