Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by surges of electrical activity in one’s brain. The disorder is primarily marked by severe and recurrent seizures. These seizures may happen due to some trigger factors or medical conditions or may be unprovoked. Considered to be the fourth most common brain disorder, epilepsy affects about 50 million people worldwide. Keep reading to learn more about types of epilepsy seizures, common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for the disorder. What is epilepsy? Epilepsy seizures are sudden and uncontrollable and lead to involuntary movements resulting from abnormal and excessive brain activity. This condition may result in momentary concentration lapses, jerky movements of the muscles, or severe, protracted convulsions. Loss of awareness and control over bowel or bladder function can occur together with an epileptic episode. It can vary in frequency from person to person and can affect a patient’s entire body or just a part of it. In addition, the condition may significantly lower a person’s quality of life. Types of epilepsy seizures Epilepsy doctors classify seizures into different categories – primary generalized seizures and partial seizures. The way the seizures start varies in each case. The primary generalized seizure is an electrical discharge that simultaneously affects both sides of the brain. On the other hand, partial seizures affect a small portion of the brain. Primary generalized seizures can be further divided into various types listed below. Absence seizures – They are common in children and is marked by involuntary body movements like eye blinking and lip-smacking, staring into space, and brief loss of awareness. Tonic seizures – Marked by muscular stiffness in one’s back, arms, and legs. People experiencing tonic seizures may lose consciousness and muscle control and suddenly fall to the ground or drop their heads. Clonic seizures – Here, the patient experiences repeated jerking muscle movements which majorly affect one’s neck, face, and both arms.

Cold sores are painful, pus-filled blisters occurring on one’s face, typically around the nose or mouth. They are caused by herpes simplex virus infection, usually spread through close physical contact. These cold sores require a systematic treatment course for a speedy recovery. Besides consulting a dermatologist and following the prescribed treatment, making certain changes to one’s meal plan and lifestyle can facilitate healing. Here are some foods to avoid with cold sores. White meat White meat sources, including chicken and turkey breast, have the highest quantities of arginine, a type of amino acid. The herpes simplex virus requires arginine to multiply in the body; thus, the reduction of arginine levels can play a crucial role in managing cold sores. Avoiding white meat can facilitate speedy recovery for people with cold sores. Oranges Citrus fruits, such as oranges may irritate the cold sores and cause a burning sensation in the affected area. So, it helps to avoid oranges and other citrus fruits till the sores heal completely. Pizza At advanced stages, individuals with cold sores may experience difficulties in opening their mouths wide, as the sore is extremely vulnerable to bursting open. Thus, it is important to avoid pizzas and other foods that require one to open their mouth wide. Dark chocolate Although dark chocolate is generally healthier than white chocolate, it is higher in arginine and should be avoided with cold sores. White vinegar White vinegar contains 7% acetic acid, higher than any other type of vinegar. Such high acid levels can worsen cold sores and must be avoided. Sugary foods and beverages A cold-sore outbreak indicates that the immune system is unable to optimally protect the body against external agents. Added sugar further weakens the immune system by preventing white blood cells from destroying bacteria. Thus, it is essential to limit or avoid sugary foods and beverages, including desserts and soft drinks.

Nutrition is important in keeping the body healthy and making it resistant to illnesses. Although no one meal may cause or cure hearing loss, studies indicate that nutrition can help lower the likelihood of hearing loss. Lack of micronutrients and vitamins A, B, C, zinc, and magnesium can raise the risk of hearing loss. Hence, eating the right foods can enhance general health and the auditory system. Here are some foods to eat and avoid. Foods to eat to prevent hearing loss: Magnesium-rich food Magnesium protects inner ear hair cells from loud noises and promotes normal nerve function. It can also improve blood flow, but a deficiency might result in an oxygen shortage. Therefore, consuming more foods high in magnesium are advised to maintain healthy and functional ears. The best magnesium-rich foods are dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, nuts, whole grains, avocados, salmon, legumes, kale, spinach, and bananas. Potassium-rich food A fluid imbalance in the inner ear can cause hearing loss. Maintaining healthy levels of potassium helps in controlling body fluid. Potassium levels naturally decline as people age. Therefore, eating foods high in potassium is crucial to avoid hearing loss or other hearing issues. The best foods for potassium intake are cucumbers, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, potatoes, eggs, apricots, oranges, avocados, spinach, coconut, peas, watermelon, and edamame. Zinc-rich food Zinc can promote cell growth as well as boost immunity, which helps in the prevention of ear infections. A healthy zinc intake is also linked to a lower risk of tinnitus and presbycusis. Include foods like yogurt, beans, lentils, oysters, lobster, crab, mushrooms, kale, spinach, garlic, and pumpkin seeds in your regular meals to help boost immunity and heal quickly from any illness. Omega-3 rich food All organs start to weaken with age and need more attention and care to stay healthy.

Cancer is a large group of diseases that could develop in various organs or tissues of the body. In this condition, cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other organs, leading to serious health complications. Several factors may increase the risk of cancer; common risk factors are genetic and environmental factors and the use of household items containing cancer-causing chemicals. Getting rid of these items may help reduce the risk of cancer. Cleaning products Formaldehyde is a common carcinogen in cleaning products like dishwashing liquids, carpet cleaners, and fabric softeners. Using these products excessively may put one at a heightened risk of cancer. Alternatively, one can look for cleaning products that are free from or have a lower concentration of formaldehyde. One should also ensure that the area being cleaned is well-ventilated to get rid of harmful gasses released by cleaning products. Air fresheners People use air fresheners at home or in the car to mask pungent odors. But this household item contains properties known to cause several health complications. Most air fresheners contain formaldehyde, a colorless gas that works as a preservative. But this gas is a carcinogen linked to cancers of the throat and nose. Formaldehyde is also known to trigger a range of respiratory problems like asthma. One can switch to natural alternatives like essential oils to create pleasant aromas in their home. Additionally, oils derived from rosemary may offer health benefits that help improve mood and control the nervous system. Artificial sweeteners Excessive sugar is not great for health, so many consider switching to other alternatives. While healthy options are easily available, people may choose artificial sweeteners that are worse than sugar. These include sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, sorbitol cyclamate, and saccharin may increase the risk of certain cancer types when added to food in large quantities over a long period.

Arthritis is a condition in which the joints swell and become extremely tender. The main symptoms of the condition include joint pain and stiffness, which may worsen with age. Furthermore, arthritis may also cause inflammation in the affected areas, making it quite difficult to move certain parts of the body. Hence, in addition to the required treatments for arthritis, one can also opt for lifestyle modifications to better manage the condition. Managing arthritis and joint pain – Top 6 smoothies to drink As arthritis is an inflammatory disorder that affects the joints, one may benefit from adding foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties to their meal plan. This may help ease the symptoms and manage the condition. Peach and cherry smoothie Fresh fruits such as cherries and peaches are rich in polyphenols and Vitamin C, which are potent antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, a study has shown that the juice of fresh cherries demonstrated antioxidant actions in healthy men within 30 minutes of consumption. Hence it’s suggested to drink peach and cherry smoothies regularly during breakfast to notice improvements in the condition. This can be done by blending these fruits with coconut milk and bringing it to an even and smooth consistency. Pineapple and blueberry smoothie Pineapples are rich sources of Vitamin C. Moreover, the fruits also contain the protease enzyme called bromelain. This enzyme has the potential to reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and also ease the digestion process. On the other hand, blueberries contain 20 types of anthocyanin, the antioxidant that gives the fruit its color. Hence one can add the two fruits with ginger root, chamomile tea, and watercress to make a smoothie and reap the benefits. Spinach and pineapple smoothie Leafy green vegetables such as spinach contain antioxidants and plant compounds that can relieve inflammation and joint pain.

Although cold and flu are common health conditions, they can be discomforting and disrupt daily life. Additionally, they are typically accompanied by headaches, loss of appetite, fever, and other symptoms. These conditions are often treated using home remedies like gargling with lukewarm water, steam inhalation, and avoiding cold beverages. Also, adding certain foods to meals can help one recover better. So, here are some refreshing smoothies that can help relieve common cold and flu symptoms: Ginger, kale, and carrot smoothie Ginger is a well-known anti-inflammatory ingredient that can fight infections and boost immunity. It contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaols, which can help manage throat infections. Leafy greens like kale are packed with nutrients such as folate and vitamins A and C and are excellent options to relieve symptoms during bouts of the common cold or influenza. Finally, carrots have high levels of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, facilitating the production of more white blood cells to fight infections. A combination of these three ingredients can make for a delectable and nutritious smoothie to beat flu and common cold symptoms. Pomegranate and pumpkin smoothie Packed with nutrients, this smoothie works wonders for regulating common cold and flu symptoms. Pomegranate is packed with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, including vitamin C and antioxidants, and can reduce the duration of the common cold by as much as 40%. Pumpkins contain high levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene and can help ward off cold and flu symptoms. One may enjoy a bowl of this delectable smoothie for breakfast or a snack for a speedy recovery from flu and cold. Blueberry and almond smoothie Blueberries can provide 24% of the body’s required intake of vitamin C per day; further, they contain incredibly high concentrations of antioxidants, enabling a speedy recovery from cold and flu symptoms.

Pain is a common symptom of many health concerns, like diseases, chronic conditions, and injury. While there are numerous prescription options to help deal with pain, some people might prefer trying natural remedies at home. These remedies are usually preferable when trying to avoid dealing with the side effects of prescription treatment. Nevertheless, at-home solutions can relieve many symptoms, including aches, and help recover from health conditions. So, here are some common options to consider: Meditation Meditation is a natural remedy that offers relaxation and pain relief. It works by promoting mindfulness and lowering stress levels. Beginners can try this relaxation technique with the help of guided meditation videos or podcasts available online. The instructions here can make the process simple for those willing to try the exercise. Essential oils Essential oils are plant extracts in a concentrated form. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including pain relief. Essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender have been found to help alleviate pain. These oils can be added to a diffuser or applied topically. Yoga Yoga is an activity that seamlessly combines movement and meditation to promote relaxation and overall well-being. It works by reducing muscle tension, increasing flexibility, and enabling mindfulness. One should start practicing yoga with the help of a professional instructor. Alternatively, one can follow online tutorials. Acupuncture This is a traditional Chinese practice that involves the use of thin needles inserted at specific points in the body, called acupoints. Acupuncture has been found to work for those dealing with osteoarthritis, back pain, and other kinds of chronic pain. Heat therapy Heat therapy is a common natural remedy that relieves pain. Applying heat to the affected area can help reduce muscle tension and increase blood flow. Here, hot water bottles or heating pads can be placed on the affected area.

Superfoods are foods with high levels of nutritional benefits for the body. It is suggested to keep your pate colorful as that indicates that you are eating a variety of fruits and vegetables which are rich in several vitamins and minerals that keep the body happy and healthy. There are some particular foods that you should not skip from your meals, and here are some of those superfoods for optimal health. Garlic Coming from the allium family of vegetables, these are pungent. However, they add so much flavor to a recipe and not just that, but are known for their potent health benefits like antiviral and antibacterial. Garlic has also been used as a healing herb in east Asian culture, and studies have supported its healing prowess. Other allium vegetables that are good to consume include leeks, onions, chives, etc. According to a study published in Food Science and Nutrition Journal, eating garlic plays a vital role in preventing cancer. It helps those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Pomegranate These tiny red seeds are part of the exotic food culture and hold several health benefits that can be useful to everyone. They are high in antioxidants that help boost the immune system. Manganese helps in forming bone, and joint tissues, folate and thiamine help with the development and growth of cell function, and fiber keeps the gut healthy and aids digestion. Vitamin C heals all wounds and protects the cells, and lastly, the potassium in the fruit is exceptionally good for the heart, muscles, and nerves. According to research published in Frontiers of Pharmacology, eating pomegranate helps maintain good heart health and can also be a great supplement. Other exotic fruits which should be included in the superfood category include dragon fruit, acai berries, and even mango.

Protective hairstyles can give your hair an elegant appearance while promoting hair health and growth. These styles guard your locks against damage and breakage, keep the moisture intact, and prevent tugging and pulling. Moreover, they are easy and cost-effective! This post discusses a few popular protective hairstyles you can try. It also lists their benefits and some valuable tips on maintaining and caring for the hair and scalp when adopting them. Popular protective hairstyles to try Protective hairstyles are a great solution to promote hair growth and keep the scalp healthy. But you must select an appropriate style for your hair texture and type and follow proper maintenance methods for the best results. There are plenty of styles, each with its advantages and drawbacks. Here are a few popular examples: Braids This is a traditional style formed by weaving multiple strands of hair together. Depending on your liking, you can achieve different types of braids, from simple cornrows to intricate designs. The best part is that they can be styled using both natural hair and extensions. Twists Twists are similar to braids, except they involve twisting two strands of hair in a row instead of weaving three or more strands together. Like braids, twists can be styled in different ways using natural hair or extensions. Weaves Weaves usually involve sewing hair extensions into braided hair to add length and volume. They can be created using sew-in, glue-in, or tape-in methods. Wigs Wigs are versatile and can be worn for short or extended periods. They come in various styles, colors, and textures and are made from either synthetic or natural hair. When selecting a protective hairstyle, it is essential to consider the texture and type of your locks and any potential negatives or risks related to that style. Benefits of protective hairstyles Below are a few advantages you can enjoy with these hairstyles:

Spring is marked by seasonal allergy symptoms like congestion, cough, sneezing, and itchy red eyes for many people. Making certain lifestyle changes, however, can help alleviate some of these symptoms and make one healthier. Creating a nutrition plan rich in vitamin C, bromelain, magnesium, vitamin D, EGCG, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Try these eleven foods to relieve seasonal allergy symptoms: Ginger Ginger is a rich source of phytochemicals with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help reduce symptoms such as swelling and irritation in the nasal passages, eyes, and throat and provide relief. It also contains gingerol, which can help dry up mucus for quicker recovery. Ginger can be consumed fresh or dried and easily added to foods like stir fries and curries. One can also try drinking ginger tea for added benefits. Bee pollen Bee pollen is a mixture of enzymes, nectar, honey, flower pollen, and wax. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties. Consuming this can help build immunity against pollen and reduce the severity of one’s allergies. It can be sprinkled on yogurt or cereal or crushed into a smoothie or green juice for quick and easy consumption. Orange Oranges, and other citrus fruits, such as grapefruits, lemons, and limes, are a rich source of Vitamin C and bromelain. This can help boost one’s immunity to protect against the common cold and decrease the occurrence of allergic rhinitis. They are also fruitful in reducing histamine levels in the body, which can cause allergy symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. Other foods like strawberries and red peppers are packed with vitamin C. Turmeric Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient that is commonly used in traditional healing. The main active ingredient, curcumin, can help reduce inflammation and minimize swelling and irritation.