Many wear branded sunglasses to make a fashion statement. Some wear them simply to protect their eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet A and B rays. However, a few choose not to wear sunglasses due to various myths. For instance, they believe that only expensive sunglasses offer sun protection and so do not bother to invest in them. Below, we have tried to debunk a few such myths about sunglasses that could damage your vision: One should wear sunglasses only on sunny days This statement holds no truth. Various experiments and studies have revealed that the sun can affect our eyes even when hidden behind clouds, mainly because the atmosphere keeps the UV rays active. In such situations, the effect of the rays can be more harmful. The sun’s UV rays can easily pass through fog and clouds, increasing the risk of eye issues, such as cataracts, in any season. During winter, the sun’s rays can reflect off frost and snow and cause photokeratitis or snow blindness, a severe eye condition. If your eyes are overexposed to UV rays, they can become dry, red, and tender or even get seriously damaged. Hence, it is advisable to protect the eyes with sunglasses or prescription lenses that offer UV protection. You can find such sunglasses easily on the market from different brands. Use them irrespective of whether the sun is shining brightly on a given day or hidden behind clouds. The sunglasses’ size does not matter Many people believe that the size of their sunglasses does not matter and that they can choose any size they wish. It is a dangerous myth because the right size is necessary to block the sun’s rays. Experts recommend choosing bigger sunglasses because the bigger the sunglasses, the more protection they will offer by covering a larger area around the eye.

Smooth and healthy skin is a common goal. Skin problems can affect you at any age and can be a cause of concern depending on the severity of the condition. They are usually caused by factors such as allergic reactions, pollution, lifestyle, poor nutrition, etc. Consuming nutrient-rich foods that boost skin health can be a great way for people with skin problems to get relief from some of the symptoms. Read on to know more: Nutrients and types of food vital for good skin Healthy fats Healthy fats contain omega-3 and omega-6 components that act as building blocks of the cell membranes and help to hydrate the skin and prevent dryness. Avocado is a delicious fruit, rich in healthy fats and healthy oils, which are essential in keeping your skin moisturized and soft. Its vitamin E content can protect your skin from oxidative damage. Other sources of healthy fats are salmon, sunflower seeds, mackerel, olive oil and eggs. Vitamins and minerals Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, and other nutrients including vitamin E, selenium, omega fatty acids, copper, zinc, and calcium. All of these are essential for maintaining good skin health. Cashews, with their high vitamin E and selenium content, have been found to be very effective against acne. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fats can reduce inflammation of the skin. Walnuts are also rich in zinc, which helps wounds to heal faster. Almonds are packed with essential protein and fatty acids, and vitamin E, which keeps the blood vessels dilated and boosts skin health. Vegetables Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli and lettuce are packed with essential nutrients required to maintain skin health. Most leafy greens are rich in beta carotene, which serves as an antioxidant for maintaining skin health and appearance.

Osteoporosis makes the bones brittle and weaker, increasing the risk of unexpected and sudden bone fractures. Osteoporosis means “porous bone,” with less bone strength and mass. The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) says the condition leads to more than 8.9 million fractures worldwide, resulting in an osteoporosis fracture every three seconds. Most fractures occur in the wrist, spine, and hip. Here are some treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes that can boost bone health: Treatment options Osteoporosis is also sometimes called a silent disease, as there are no symptoms. Healthcare experts may suggest certain tests to learn about bone health. A doctor may measure the bone density with a device called DXA Machine (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), which uses tiny amounts of radiation to scan the spine and hip to determine how dense or solid the bones are. This test takes around 10 to 15 minutes. Then, based on these tests, treatments are established. EVENITY® EVENITY® is an anabolic treatment and is unique as it works in two ways. It helps build new bones and, to a lesser extent, it helps slow down bone loss. The FDA approved it in 2019 to treat this condition in women who have gone through menopause and are at risk of experiencing fractures. However, EVENITY® also has side effects, such as an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. It can also cause joint pain and headaches. Talk to your health care provider if you are concerned about the side effects and confirm the dosage. Meal plans Variety is essential when it comes to bone health. What you eat has a major impact on your overall health. So, you must consume a good mix of nutrient-rich meals. Foods and beverages to include: Dairy items Dairy can be a rich source of bone-building calcium, the primary nutrient that contributes to bone strength and structure, as per the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Nasal polyps are painless, soft, and benign growths in the nasal passages and sinuses. They are usually formed from the mucus membranes. Small polyps may not lead to any symptoms, but in severe cases, they may cause a stuffy nose, runny nose, headache, nose bleeds, and loss of smell or taste. There are various treatments available to relieve the symptoms of nasal polyps; in minor cases, one can check out home remedies such as: 8 home remedies for managing nasal polyps If your case of nasal polyps is not very severe and home remedies are likely to soothe your symptoms, then check out the ones listed below: Humidifier or steam inhalation The first option to try is inhaling the steam of hot water to moisten and open the nasal passages and airways. You may also add a few drops of essential oils to the water for an additional therapeutic effect. Other than steam inhalation, you can also use a humidifier in your home; this will help moisten the airways and sinuses. Nasal irrigation or neti pot Nasal irrigation, defined as flushing the sinuses with salty and warm water, helps clear nasal congestion. It provides relief from allergies, colds, and sinus infections. A neti pot is an efficient and effective way to do that. “Neti,” in Sanskrit, means nasal cleansing, and this remedy first originated in Ayurvedic treatment. Staying hydrated Along with steam inhalation and nasal irrigation, you should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Apart from providing many health benefits, it will help moisten the nasal passages and thin the mucus. Tea tree oil Tea tree oil is an essential oil renowned for its antimicrobial properties. It has many effective traits in treating and reducing itching and addressing infection and inflammation. This helps in managing both the causes and symptoms of nasal polyps.

Sleeping helps our body relax, recover, and also repair tired muscles. We spend about a third of our day in bed, so it is important to choose a comfortable mattress. This can not only help you get adequate and sound rest but can also relieve aches. Further, the ideal mattress can ensure minimal damage to your back and spine. So, here are some of the best mattresses for back pain: Saatva Classic This is one of the best-selling innerspring mattresses. With its double-layered coils and a foam pillow top, Saatva aims to provide the best sleeping experience for people with back pain. Its core is made of dual coils and has a stable foundation that enhances edge support. The mattress is available in three comfort levels: plush soft, luxury firm, and firm. The pressure point relief functionality of the pillow top and the plush-cushiony design can provide luxurious, firm support for a good night’s sleep. Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, split king, California king, twin XL, and split California king. Key features: Coil-on-coil construction, quilted polyfoam, three firmness levels to choose from, lifetime warranty, breathable organic cotton cover, and individually pocketed comfort coils. Limitations: The support coils at the base are not pocketed, which limits the ability to reduce motion transfer if two people lie on the same mattress. Further, it might not be the best option for side sleepers. DreamCloud mattress This luxury hybrid mattress is one of the top mattresses for back pain. DreamCloud mattresses come with a plush quilted surface and medium-firm support that help reduce pressure point pains while gently contouring the body for a comfortable sleeping experience. The mattress combines pressure relief and support features to keep the sleeper’s spine aligned and relieve back pain. Dreamcloud mattresses offer a significant amount of pressure relief, motion isolation, and a luxurious feel.

Good sleep improves brain performance and reduces stress. But sometimes, sleep can be disturbed due to lifestyle changes, stress, anxiety, and physical ailments. Insufficient sleep can increase the risk of developing a few mental and physical health complications. Insomnia is one of them, where people cannot rest or have disturbed sleep. In recent times, most people’s sleep quality has deteriorated due to increasing stress levels. Here are a few things you should avoid before bedtime: Using electronic devices The blue light emitted by smartphones, televisions, laptops, and other devices can affect the brain and prevent one from falling asleep. This light prevents the secretion of melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone. Electronic devices should be kept at least 15 inches away from the body, and the brightness of the screen should be reduced to limit the possibility of light-related sleep issues. Also, avoiding screens a few hours before bed is best to ensure sound sleep. Watching exciting and scary movies can trigger the release of cortisol, a natural alarm system in the body. Instead, watch documentaries or read a book an hour before going to bed. Use sleep apps that provide sleep-inducing music options for those with severe health conditions. Stress and anxiety Stress and anxiety can disrupt mental and physical health, leading to sleep deprivation. It is, therefore, recommended not to check work emails before going to bed as they could make you agitated or anxious. Also, avoid discussing any serious issues with your family, spouse, or partner that could mentally affect you. This is because the negative emotions trigger the adrenal gland to produce the hormones cortisol and adrenaline, which can prevent you from calming down and falling asleep. Hence, meditation and other activities just before bedtime might be helpful to calm the body and mind. A hot shower at night can be ideal as it enhances blood flow, relaxes your body, and prepares you for a good night’s sleep.

Sweating or perspiration is that familiar feeling of the wet dampness on our skin. You do not just sweat when it is hot or when you are exerting yourself; sweating is the body’s normal stress response to certain conditions. Though everyone sweats, not everyone sweats excessively. Let us understand when sweating is considered to be excessive and starts interfering with your life and what can you do to control it: Normal causes of excessive sweating According to the National Library of Medicine Journal, the human body has close to 2-4 million sweat glands. These are found on the palms, soles, and skin. Sweating helps regulate your body’s temperature and doesn’t let it succumb to heat. Besides, it also helps in excreting excessive iron and nitrogen from your body. Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of body sweats: Exercise Exercising heats up the body quickly. When you contract your muscles, your body produces energy. The excess energy escapes as body heat, resulting in sweating. Another reason is that when exercising, the body undergoes many chemical reactions while it burns fats, proteins, and sugars. These reactions heat the body, leading to body sweats. To avoid dehydration while exercising, make sure that you drink enough water. Hot weather The whole purpose of sweating is to keep your body from overheating and collapsing. Known as “thermoregulation,” sweating allows heat transfer when the sweat changes from liquid to a gaseous form before escaping your skin. Excessive loss of electrolytes and water due to hot weather can be managed by hydration and spending less time in the sun. Mood changes Many may not be aware, but your state of mind decides how much you will sweat. Whether you are angry, anxious, panicked, or stressed, your body goes into a fight or flight response.

Osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to lose their density, changes the bone structure. This leads to the weakening of the bones and increases the risk of fractures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4.2% of males and 18.8% of females over the age of 50 have osteoporosis of the lumbar spine or femur neck. It is essential to include the following nutrient-rich foods to avoid the risk of osteoporosis: Low-fat dairy products Including low-fat dairy products such as milk, cheese, calcium-fortified cottage cheese, and yogurt is considered necessary for bone health. These foods are rich in calcium, which is highly important for strengthening the bones. A cup of fat-free milk and plain non-fat Greek yogurt is loaded with calcium. Cruciferous and leafy green vegetables Vegetables should be included in meal plans, as they are loaded with calcium and vitamin K, which benefit bone health. Lack of vitamin K is associated with fractures and osteoporosis. Cruciferous and leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, turnip greens, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are a few options to include in meals. Seeds These are loaded with calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Moreover, they also have fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation in the body. Many types of seeds are also helpful in the smooth functioning of the brain and nervous system. Some of the seeds to include in meal plans are chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, and sesame seeds. Nuts Nuts are enriched with essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are required for bone health. Magnesium helps the bones retain and absorb calcium, while phosphorus is a critical bone element. It is found that approximately 85% of the phosphorus in the human body is located in the bones and teeth.

When a woman is nursing, their baby is getting all of their nutrients via breastmilk. Thus, it is highly imperative for the mother to be having nutrient-rich, wholesome foods. Additionally, a new mother needs as much care and nutrition as possible to recover their strength and actively nurse a baby. To ensure their meals are well-balanced and meet all their needs, read on to learn about five superfoods for nursing mothers: 5 superfoods that nursing mothers need Green leafy vegetables Though there is no recent published research on the lactogenic traits of green leafy vegetables, consuming them in a large quantity helps boost health. It has been found that green leafy vegetables contain phytoestrogens that stimulate milk production and these vegetables also help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. So, this may be the key element in comprehending their lactogenic power. Leafy greens are also loaded with vitamins A, C, E, and K, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Some mothers may worry that having broccoli or cabbage which may increase the gas in their little ones. But it is not true as the carbohydrate part of these vegetables responsible for causing gas does not transfer to breast milk. Nuts and seeds Nuts and seeds are a wealth of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, proteins, fibers, and healthful polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. They are good for the skin and offer protection against heart diseases. Other than this, nuts can provide a milk boost, meaning they are lactogenic. Also, they are a good source of calcium, which is good for bone and teeth health. Nuts such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pistachios are to be included in the meal plans. Similarly, seeds are rich in protein and other essential minerals, including iron, calcium, zinc, and healthy fats. Every seed has its unique nutritional benefit, so seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds are to be considered in the meal plans.

The prostate, a walnut-sized gland, is a part of the reproductive system in men. It is located in front of the rectum, just below the bladder. As men age, the prostate gland tends to enlarge. It is studied that around 12.5% of men over 40 will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime. Regular exercise, staying hydrated, and good nutrition can prevent prostate problems. Here are some foods that will improve the health of your prostate: Foods to eat Around 80% of men will develop an enlarged prostate as they age. As a result, it is important to care for the prostate gland. The foods you eat can play a significant role to help prevent it. Berries Fruits such as strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich sources of antioxidants. They are also rich in vitamin C, which can help reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH or prostate enlargement) by reducing swelling and improving urination. A cup of strawberries contains 90mg of vitamin C, and a cup of blueberries contains 14mg of vitamin C. The antioxidants in berries can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, alleviating symptoms of BPH and preventing cancer. You can include berries in your daily food regimen as a mid-morning snack, in your breakfast smoothies, or as a light dinner of fruit salad. Beans and lentils Processed and red meats can increase the risk of BPH and prostate cancer. Replacing red meats with plant protein can improve prostate health. A cup of black beans contains 15g of protein and 15g of fiber, which helps improve prostate health. You can also add beans or lentils to your soups and salads, or you could replace the meat in a wrap with beans. Some beans that you can add to your meal plans include black-eyed peas, pinto beans, red kidney beans, and black beans.