6 foods to avoid for managing eczema

6 foods to avoid for managing eczema

Eczema is a condition that can cause dry, itchy, or inflamed skin. It is a chronic condition that is common among young children. Common triggers include irritants such as harsh soaps, environmental factors such as cold or dry weather, or allergens such as dust mites, pet fur, pollen, or mold. It is important to manage inflammation during a flare, and nutrition is essential to controlling the symptoms. Avoiding the following foods may help one manage eczema better: Dairy products Milk and milk products are a common group of allergens. They can worsen eczema flare-ups among those with allergies, which is why most people with eczema tend to avoid dairy products. Unless one is severely allergic, it is advisable not to eliminate dairy products without consulting a physician first, as they are an important source of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics. Speak to a qualified nutritionist or a doctor about replacements or alternatives for dairy products. Eggs Egg allergy is another commonly occurring one. Children may be allergic to certain proteins found in eggs, which could trigger eczema flares. This also includes foods with eggs as an ingredient, such as baked goods. However, most egg allergies in children resolve by the age of 5.
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Foods to eat for better lung health

Foods to eat for better lung health

Daily nutrition impacts how the organs in our body perform day in and out. For instance, healthy, well-balanced meals with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients boost immunity and lower the risk of serious complications. On the other hand, poor eating habits affect the functioning of specific organs, increasing the risk of diseases. This post lists the top foods nutritionists recommend adding to regular meals for boosting lung health and preventing chronic respiratory complications. Apples Apples are an excellent fruit to eat raw. They are rich in fiber and have a potent antioxidant called quercetin. Quercetin reduces the damage lung tissues suffer due to underlying respiratory disorders. Nutritionists recommend eating five or six apples a week for healthy lungs. Assorted berries Blueberries are among the richest sources of antioxidants that counter the inflammatory responses triggered by chronic respiratory disorders. A specific pigment in them called anthocyanins helps protect lung tissue from oxidative damage and slows down lung disease progression. Raspberries and strawberries are other antioxidant-rich berries to include in the daily nutrition plan for boosting lung function. Tomatoes Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, a carotenoid that prevents airway inflammation and slows down lung function decline caused by respiratory disorders. Tomatoes are also a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and lowers the risk of autoimmune responses that affect lung function.
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4 things to avoid before bed for managing migraine

4 things to avoid before bed for managing migraine

Migraine is a condition with a persistent and painful headache that is felt around the temples of the head. These can be triggered by loud noise, bright light, or some foods. And if a person regularly experiences migraine headaches, one should try making changes to one’s pre-bedtime routine to manage the triggers. This article discusses 4 things to avoid before going to bed to manage them. Read on to learn more. Irregular sleep schedule Not getting enough sleep or oversleeping can both trigger a headache. Experts suggest that following a strict sleep schedule can be extremely useful in keeping that migraine away. Going to bed at the same time and waking up around the same time will channel one’s body to get the appropriate amount of rest needed every night. This applies on the weekend too. This might be a good hack to try if one easily gets triggered by headaches. Bright room with too much noise This is especially important to avoid for those dealing with migraine attacks. A dark room with a comfortable bed and no noise is highly appreciated. According to the National Sleep Foundation, keeping the room temperature to 68 Fahrenheit is the ideal way to get the most restful and comfortable sleep.
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5 habits to avoid before bed for managing migraines

5 habits to avoid before bed for managing migraines

Migraine is a neurological condition that leads to severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. It may also cause nausea and vomiting in some cases. While a migraine is not life-threatening, it can cause immense discomfort when ignored. Research shows that poor sleep and a disrupted sleep schedule are potential triggers for migraine headaches. So, improved sleep hygiene can help patients better manage their condition in the long term. Things to avoid before bed for managing migraines Experts have narrowed down a few unhealthy bedtime habits that prevent people from getting quality sleep, which, in turn, triggers a migraine attack. A few of these unhealthy habits are discussed below: Staring at a screen Electronic devices like TVs, smartphones, and tablets must be avoided before bedtime. The screens of these gadgets emit a blue light that upsets the circadian rhythm or the body’s internal clock. It also prevents the brain from shutting down, leading to sleep deprivation. Experts recommended putting away all electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime for better sleep quality. Staring at bright lights before bedtime can have a similar effect as blue light and must also be avoided. Eating large meals Food and liquid intake can influence one’s sleep quality, making them a potential migraine trigger.
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8 delicious foods to improve heart health

8 delicious foods to improve heart health

The heart is a vital organ of the circulatory system that pumps blood containing oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It also serves other functions like controlling blood pressure and heart rate. Heart health depends on several factors, including family history and personal health. The food a person eats also determines the overall health of their heart. Here are eight delicious and nutritious foods one should eat to improve heart health. Dark chocolate Those who enjoy dark chocolate might be overjoyed to know that the cocoa-rich product does wonders for the heart. Its high cocoa content is a significant source of antioxidants and minerals. Eating it can help protect one from heart disease. However, dark chocolate contains sugar and calories, which is why it must be eaten in moderation to avoid any side effects. Almonds Eating a cup of almonds daily can help nourish the body with minerals and vitamins essential for heart health. Almonds contain nutrients like monounsaturated fats and fibers that are essential to protect a person from heart diseases. Eating almonds can also help improve good cholesterol (HDL) levels, which may help reduce the buildup of plaque and keep the arteries clear. One should keep in mind that almonds are also rich in calories.
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8 superfoods that help reduce cholesterol

8 superfoods that help reduce cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that circulates in the bloodstream. It is not inherently bad for one’s health. Good cholesterol helps in the absorption of nutrients, the building of cells, and other functions like metabolism and digestion of fat. However, excessive levels of cholesterol may lead to cardiovascular diseases or even stroke. There are some superfoods that support the functions of good cholesterol and flush out the bad cholesterol before it gets into the bloodstream. What is good and bad cholesterol? The particles that carry cholesterol from one’s bloodstream to the cells of the body are called lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoproteins. The high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is considered to be the “good cholesterol.” HDL takes up the extra cholesterol in one’s blood and transports it back to one’s liver, where it is metabolized and expelled from the body. On the other hand, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the “bad cholesterol.” LDL accumulates on the walls of one’s blood vessels and hampers the blood flow, which may lead to health complications like a heart attack or stroke. Oatmeal Oats are an ideal food to reduce one’s LDL cholesterol and blood sugar level. A versatile food, oats are rich in soluble fiber and also help beat constipation.
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7 best foods to relieve constipation

7 best foods to relieve constipation

Constipation is characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stool. Signs and symptoms include passing fewer than three stools per week, having hard or lumpy stools, straining to have bowel movements, and needing help to empty the rectum. Experiencing two or more of these symptoms for over three months is called chronic constipation, although certain foods can help promote bowel movement and ease the pain caused by constipation. Some of these foods are: Prunes Dried plums or prunes are often used as a natural remedy for constipation due to high amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber. While the insoluble fiber (cellulose) increases the water content of the stool, the soluble fiber ferments in the colon to add weight to the stool. Besides, prunes also contain sorbitol and phenolic acids that promote the growth of good gut bacteria, producing a laxative effect on the body overall and improving stool frequency and consistency. Apples Apples are also a rich source of fiber. While they mostly contain insoluble fibers, they also have a soluble fiber called pectin which is fermented by the bacteria in the stomach to form short-chain fatty acids. These acids pull water into the colon, helping to soften the stool and ease constipation.
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5 alarming signs of headaches

5 alarming signs of headaches

Headaches usually develop as pain or discomfort in the head and face region. Its intensity ranges from dull pain to throbbing pulsating sensations. There are several underlying risk factors and causes ranging from exertion to progressive chronic disorders. But no two headaches develop the same way, and this pain or discomfort should be treated promptly to avoid serious health complications. Following are the five alarming signs of headaches that require immediate medical attention. A pressure or squeezing sensation Tension headaches trigger a squeezing or pressure sensation on both sides of the head. It is the most common form of discomfort experienced by adults purely as a result of over-exertion and stress. The experience is described as someone holding the head on both sides and squeezing it with all their might. Tension pain is also slow and develops gradually around the head and neck base, progressing to the sides. Other symptoms like nausea, vomiting or increased light sensitivity can develop simultaneously. Most types of tension headaches can be treated with oral prescriptions. Severe unbearable pain Sometimes, pain can become so unbearable that it will affect daily routine and sleep. Adults over 50 are generally at a high risk of developing hypnic headaches.
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