The skin is the first layer of protection from all environmental pollutants. Following a healthy skincare regime ensures proper nutrition to skin cells, while using the wrong products can speed up the premature aging process of the largest organ of the human body. Wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, age spots, etc., are the common signs of premature aging of the skin. Here are five such common mistakes that should be avoided: Using soap bars Soap bars are pretty common because they are readily available and affordably priced. Using soap bars can lead to premature aging of the skin though. This is because the formulation of the bars is such that they dry the skin on application. Soap bars can strip the cells of their natural oils and delay the collagen-producing process. The best thing to do is to opt for face and body cleansers rather than using soap bars. Make sure you do not apply it on the face, instead use a face cleanser that has been created for the facial skin. Wearing makeup as protection from the sun Using foundations and other makeup items that contain SPF makes us feel protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, these cosmetic items contain SPF as an added protection. Simply applying makeup is not going to protect your skin from harm. Also, foundation and other such cosmetic items cannot be applied to your arms, necks, scalp, and other exposed parts of the skin, leaving most of the skin uncovered and unprotected from the sun’s rays. To add to it, makeup does not last for long hours. As it starts to wear off, your face gets exposed to UV rays. Hence, using makeup as an alternative to sunscreen is a big mistake. Whether it is summer or winter, it is imperative to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.

Certain kinds of foods indeed promote a healthy you, while some have an adverse effect on our health. People who have multiple sclerosis (MS) need to be extra careful. The problem is that certain food items cause inflammation and fatigue and affect bladder and bowel functions. Hence, it is pertinent to be extra cautious when choosing ingredients for a meal. Here’s a list of foods that should be avoided to help manage the autoimmune condition better: Sodium/Salt This is one mineral that is inadvisable in higher amounts for even healthy people. Even if one is a patient of MS, one must keep sodium a bit out of sight. This is because it can flare up the symptoms. Not just that, it can affect blood pressure levels and the cardiovascular system. Increased water retention with a high salt intake can make the person uncomfortable, bloated, etc. According to the American Heart Association, the ideal salt consumption for MS patients should be limited to 2,300 mg daily. If someone has heart-related issues, it should be further decreased to about 1,500 mg per day. Gluten Gluten is a protein that is commonly and naturally found in wheat, rye, and barley. Some people have gluten intolerance, and they should avoid the intake of foods containing gluten. People suffering from MS need to speak to a doctor about their gluten tolerance capabilities. Overall, it has been seen that saying goodbye to gluten helps keep a person’s health better. There is yet no proof that suggests that staying away from gluten is good for people suffering from MS. However, it is a good idea to have a gluten-free nutritional regime to keep the gut healthy. Sugar Sugar is not just bad news for people with multiple sclerosis but even for healthy people. Consuming excess sugar can affect one’s energy levels.

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic neurological condition usually caused due to genetic factors. It occurs when the immune system starts attacking the covering of the nerves called myelin. As a result, the functioning of the nerves is affected, and patients experience various symptoms, such as vision loss and impaired coordination. Those with multiple sclerosis must follow a healthy nutrition plan, as some foods can worsen the disorder and lead to complications. Unhealthy fats Typically, fats are of four types: polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, trans fats, and saturated fats. The first two kinds are called healthy fats, while trans and saturated fats are bad or unhealthy fats. They can increase LDL cholesterol levels and clog the arteries, increasing the risk of heart-related issues. People with multiple sclerosis are already susceptible to cardiovascular problems and should therefore avoid unhealthy fats. A few examples are butter, creams, soft cheese, coconut oil, palm oil, cookies, and pies. These items can impact the functioning of the cardiovascular system, leading to an increased risk of heart attacks and hypertension. Alternatively, one can choose low-fat alternatives like skim milk, low-fat cheese, and olive oil. Foods with gluten A few preliminary studies have pointed towards a possible link between autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and gluten sensitivity. Those with this health condition may be sensitive to gluten. Gluten is a naturally-occurring protein found in foods like barley, wheat, triticale, and rye. Patients who add these foods to their meals may experience worsening symptoms. Thus, it is advisable to avoid gluten-rich foods. Salty foods Studies to determine the effects of salt on multiple sclerosis patients are also in the preliminary stages, but they are worth paying attention to. According to research, sodium or salt can disrupt the working of regulatory T-cells of the immune system and lead to inflammation in those with neurological ailments.

ADHD, also called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is one of the most common neurodevelopment disorders in children. Most ADHD cases are diagnosed between the ages of three and seven. Albeit rare, the condition may also be diagnosed in adulthood. Its symptoms usually improve with age, but individuals may continue to face sleep and anxiety issues for a prolonged period. Read on to learn some of the uncommon symptoms of ADHD that are seen in children. 5 lesser-known ADHD symptoms observed in children Hyper-focus Individuals with ADHD, irrespective of age, are believed to have trouble focusing on tasks. But, what many do not know is that ADHD patients tend to hyper-focus. This means that they can focus only on a single task for periods of time. In such states of razor focus and concentration, it can be hard for the child to move from one task to the other. They may also lose track of time and forget about other important tasks. Mood swings Mood swings are commonly seen in children and adolescents. Massive and disruptive changes in mood (mania and depression) are often associated with bipolar disorder, but mood changes in ADHD are different. Essentially, ADHD patients have a trigger that causes a shift in moods, such as a reaction to their work or interests, whereas, for bipolar disorder, a mood shift occurs without a trigger. Hyperactivity Hyperactivity is another sign in children who have ADHD. The child may run around, leave their seat, or talk or fidget excessively. This symptom can also manifest in more minor ways, such as bouncing a leg constantly. It is vital to note the small mannerisms a child may display and seek professional help. Impulsivity ADHD occurs on a spectrum. Not all individuals will showcase all symptoms. Some may show symptoms of inattentiveness, while others may be anxiety-prone.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the performance of different organs, including the eyes. Our eyes are made up of vascular tissue, which means the foods that are unhealthy for the heart are unhealthy for the eyes too. The tiny capillaries in the eyes supply the retina with oxygen and nutrients to keep it healthy. However, foods rich in unhealthy fats can block these blood vessels, compromising eye function and leading to vision problems. French fries French fries are often made in the same oil and even reheated multiple times, leading to molecular changes that increase the concentration of harmful fats. A high amount of these fats affects the eyes, heart, and other organs. Also, free radicals in fried foods increase oxidation in the body, which can damage the eyes. Margarine Margarine is often advertised as the healthier butter, but it is rich in trans fats— the fat that increases bad cholesterol levels. Increased cholesterol leads to blockages in arteries and other blood vessels, restricting the flow of oxygen, blood, and nutrients. It, in turn, can increase the risk of eye diseases. Healthy alternatives to margarine are coconut oil, avocado oil, and olive oil. Processed meat Highly processed meats, like sausages, bacon, and hot dogs, are convenient snacking options. But they are another reason for high cholesterol. The high-fat content harms the eyes, heart, and other vital organs. Regular intake causes plaque build-up in macular vessels, obstructing blood flow to the eyes and increasing the risk of macular degeneration and retina damage. Frozen meals Frozen pizzas and other ready-to-eat meals are convenient when in a rush. But that is their only benefit. They have a lot of added preservatives, sugar, and salt, which are detrimental to eye health. Adding a lot of frozen foods to the meal plan can also lead to an increased risk of eye conditions caused by diabetes and lifestyle diseases.

Sickle cell anemia is a class of genetic conditions known as sickle cell disease. Such conditions change the structure of red blood cells that transport oxygen throughout the body. Normally, these cells are rounded and flexible, easily passing through blood vessels. However, sickle- or crescent-shaped red blood cells can harden and tether in sickle cell anemia, limiting blood flow and threatening one’s health. Here, we discuss the causes and warning signs of this condition. Causes of sickle cell anemia Sickle cell anemia is a genetic condition from one’s biological parents. The gene responsible for producing healthy red blood cells undergoes alteration. This risk factor affects people who receive the defective hemoglobin protein gene from both biological parents. The sickle cell trait is present in people who receive the altered gene from one biological parent. A healthy individual who carries the disease in the form of just one gene is referred to as a “carrier.” If an expecting mother and the father are carriers, there is a higher probability that the infant will have sickle cell anemia. Warning signs of sickle cell anemia Usually, sickle cell anemia symptoms appear around the age of six months. They can differ from person to person and evolve through time. Some early symptoms include Frequently visible paleness on the lips, skin, or nail beds. Anemia-related extreme fatigue or irritability. Dactylitis, i.e., an uncomfortable swelling of the hands and feet. The following are dangerous and warning indicators of sickle cell disease, which can cause serious and life-threatening situations: Extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, light-headedness, or an irregular heartbeat. Frequent episodes of extreme pain due to sickle blood cells blocking blood flow in the chest, abdomen, and joints. Swelling of the hands and feet by sickle-shaped red blood cells that obstruct blood circulation. Higher risk of infections caused by damaged spleen due to altered cells.

The force of blood pushing against the artery walls is blood pressure. Sometimes the pressure in the arteries is much higher than it should be, known as high blood pressure (hypertension). At other times this pressure is weak and considered low blood pressure (hypotension). In both scenarios, blood pressure development can result in health complications. Its slow progressive nature is also why one must look for the signs of unusual blood pressure and seek appropriate treatments. Warning signs of high blood pressure Several signs of high blood pressure may misidentify as symptoms of another condition. A few signs may include nausea, vomiting, nosebleeds, breathlessness, and heart palpitations. The other warning signs of high blood pressure are: Subconjunctival hemorrhage Subconjunctival hemorrhage, also known as red spots in the eyes, occurs when blood leaks between the layers of the eye. The phenomenon causes bright red patches over the white regions of the eye and is often triggered by increased blood pressure. These spots may also appear without any identifiable cause by detecting damage to the optic nerve. A healthcare expert might associate the subconjunctival hemorrhage with high blood pressure. Dizziness Dizziness and feeling slightly off balance occur when there is a lack of oxygen supply to the brain. The condition is also not a known symptom of high blood pressure. However, the feeling is an early warning sign of a stroke, which is usually caused due to high blood pressure. Sometimes an individual may feel dizzy when they stand up too quickly or watch a sped-up video, which is a temporary symptom. However, if these signs do not go away, one must see a healthcare expert immediately. Brain fog Some individuals misidentify mild or chronic headaches as symptoms of other regular conditions. However, this might be caused by hypertension because the condition may reduce or cut off the oxygen supply to the brain.

Psoriasis is a common skin disorder affecting nearly 8 million adults in the country. Psoriasis affects adults between the ages of 20 and 30 or older seniors between the ages of 50 and 60. There is no cure for the condition, but it is possible to manage the symptoms with healthy nutrition, lifestyle habits, and topical remedies. But first, one must pay attention to these visible signs and narrow down their type before exploring treatment. Skin patches and rashes Commonly observed among people who develop plaque psoriasis, these raised patches and rashes develop with a thickness that is clearly visible on the skin. Plaques can develop anywhere on the skin but generally tend to be prevalent on the scalp, lower back, knees, and elbows. Plaques also vary in size and continue to spread around the affected area. A clear silver coating over these raised skin patches is also a clear indicator of plaque psoriasis. Small bleeding blisters A persistent itch is hard to resist as the symptoms continue to develop. However, scratching the patches or skin in the affected area will also cause it to blister. These puss-filled bumps that are often salmon pink in color around the area contain a clear fluid filing at the center and are commonly observed in many types of psoriasis. The skin around this area becomes sore and painful to touch, but this should not be confused with an infection. Joint discomforts Trouble in the major joints may also develop due to psoriatic arthritis, one of the subtypes of the skin condition that directly affects the joints. Any swelling or tenderness in the fingers, toes, or the back of the leg around the heel are silent but worrisome indicators of psoriatic arthritis. One might also experience sharp bouts of pain and stiffness in the affected area.

Over the last few years, diabetes cases have been increasing due to specific viruses that cause low-grade inflammation. These viruses can also worsen pre-existing diabetes by increasing insulin resistance. According to research, they can multiply within insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells, negatively impacting insulin synthesis and secretion. This makes it all the more important for people to be aware of their sugar consumption and watch out for these eight noticeable signs of excessive sugar intake. Increase in appetite Sugary foods are rich in calories. But they do not have the nutritional value that the body otherwise gains from proteins, fiber, and antioxidants found in healthy foods. Empty calories cannot satiate a full-grown adult. So, to fill this void, many people turn to compulsive snacking throughout the day. Excess fatigue People who eat sugary foods and beverages regularly might experience frequent bouts of fatigue. Excess sugar triggers abnormal changes in insulin levels, and energy levels drop rapidly as the body tries to process the extra calories. Acne and skin problems One of the most noticeable signs of excess sugar intake is adult acne and skin problems. This is mainly because of blood glucose imbalance since the body’s glycemic levels influence skin health. Digestive problems Sugar is an underlying irritant that can result in many digestive problems. People may experience stomach pain and cramping. Diarrhea is also a significant risk factor for those with gastrointestinal issues. Dental problems Having sugary foods and beverages every day increases the risk of cavities. The bacteria in the mouth thrive off particles left behind in the molars, leading to cavities and other dental problems. Joint pain Sugar is also an inflammatory trigger, so those suffering from joint problems will experience more pain with increased inflammation. Trouble sleeping Glycemic levels in the body also influence sleep cycles. So, excess sugar can trigger erratic sleeping patterns.

The eyes are complex organs; they require vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to function properly. Deficiencies in any of these elements can lead to an increased risk of developing eye diseases and conditions. These include glaucoma, macular degeneration, and even night blindness, which can compromise vision and degrade eye health. Here, we discuss four vitamins that are important to eye health and the foods that are rich sources of these vitamins. Vitamin A Vitamin A is essential to eye health. It helps in maintaining the cornea, ensuring a person has clear vision. The cornea is the layer that covers the iris and pupil. Individuals with vitamin A deficiency may experience dry eyes, which are caused due to a lack of moisture. Certain studies also indicate that low levels of vitamin A can lead to night blindness. Vitamin A is also a component of an essential protein known as rhodopsin. This protein is what allows us to see in low or poor light conditions. Beta carotene is the primary source of vitamin A. It is found in various colorful fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potato, squash, red peppers, and carrots. Vitamin C It is another important element when it comes to eye health. The main function of vitamin C is that it protects the eyes from the sun’s UV rays. This prevents damage to the cornea and other parts. Vitamin C also prevents oxidative damage, which can lead to cortical or nuclear cataracts. It is advisable to add foods enriched with this essential nutrient to your meals. Foods that are abundant sources of vitamin C include oranges, blackberries, grapefruit, Brussel sprouts, and broccoli. Vitamin B B vitamins, particularly vitamins B6, B9, and B12, can impact eye health. When present in average amounts, these vitamins can lower the levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that has been linked to inflammation and an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration.