According to studies, diet can help improve seizure control in people who suffer from epileptic seizures. While these studies have been based on strict diets such as the Ketogenic diet, recent studies have shown that less restrictive diets such as the Low Glycemic Index diet and the modified Atkins diet can also be helpful in managing conditions such as epilepsy. When it comes to diet and dietary habits, they can be very hard to change, especially when a lot of changes are administered at the same time. Also, it is common for one to get all excited about a “new diet” in the beginning, but people tend to lose all that enthusiasm after a while. So, trying to make one change at a time is probably the best, sustainable way to start a diet, especially one that can help them manage certain conditions effectively. Eliminating simple sugars: The very first and important step for following a diet and nutrition tips for living well with epilepsy is to eliminate foods that contain high amounts and concentration of simple sugars. This type of carbohydrates have high glycemic indices, which leads to them being absorbed rapidly by the body. Once one has eliminated these sugary foods completely for more than just a few weeks, they could probably find that one no longer has the desire to eat them at all. One’s body will be more satisfied with the next step of the diet—whole, natural foods. Following a whole, natural foods diet: The step of following a wholesome, natural diet is a complex one that needs to be broken down into smaller, simpler-to-follow step. Healthy food items which have extremely little to no processing factor at all should be included in the diet. Foods that are minimally processed have a maximum of 3 ingredients.

The eye is an organ part of the visual system in the human body that enables individuals to see. But several factors can affect one’s overall vision. Age, diabetes, high blood pressure, and genetics are significant factors impacting one’s vision. Improper nutrition can also be a contributing factor to poor vision. Therefore, one must ensure they eat foods rich in vitamins to improve eye health. Here are four such vitamins to include in each meal. Vitamin A Including foods rich in vitamin A may help maintain a clear cornea (the outer covering of the eye). The vitamin is also a component of a protein in the eyes known as rhodopsin. The protein allows individuals to see in low light conditions. Furthermore, vitamin A reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Foods abundant with A vitamins include pumpkins, bell peppers, squash, and sweet potato. Carrots, black-eyed peas, spinach, broccoli, mangoes, and cantaloupe are other foods rich in this vitamin. The lack of vitamin A can lead to xerophthalmia, a severe condition that may cause permanent blindness. Vitamin C Eating foods rich in vitamin C can have several health benefits, including those for the eyes. The vitamin also protects the eyes from oxidative damage. Such damage is a crucial factor that can trigger the development of nuclear and cortical cataracts, which are common age-related cataracts. Oranges, blackberries, grapefruit juice, and Brussels sprouts are some foods to consume to improve the vitamin levels in the body. Research indicates that people who developed a nuclear cataract had clearer lenses when they ate foods rich in vitamin C. The nutrition from these foods can also protect the eye against UV light damage. While the concentration of vitamin C in the eyes depletes with age, taking supplements based on a healthcare professional’s advice may help replenish the vitamin.

Like humans, our furry best friends, dogs, need a balanced meal plan to help them live long and healthy lives. If you are someone who cooks meals for them daily, here are some human foods that can easily be added to their bowl for some much-needed nutrition and taste. However, always observe your pet to check if they like these foods and respond well to them. Here are some of these foods: Veggies Our furry friends are just as much in love with veggies as us humans. While not all vegetables are good for them, you can safely give them foods like carrots, green beans, peas, and even pumpkin. These veggies are good for your pets as they are dense in nutrients and easy to digest. Pumpkins are great dogs as they are known for keeping the gut healthy and relieving any digestive issues. Green beans are known for their high protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin K nutrients that keep your furry best friend healthy. And carrots have vitamin A, beta carotene, and fiber content that keeps your dog healthy and happy. Peanut butter This is another extremely safe human food to feed your dog in small to moderate quantities. It contains lots of protein, heart-healthy fats, niacin, and vitamins like B and E. However, it is advised to make your peanut butter at home because it will have no additives and no added sugar or salt, which could harm your dog. Many people use this as a treat in play toys like a Kong or on a lick mat. This can be extremely helpful in mental stimulation and also keep them distracted during a grooming session that they otherwise do not enjoy as much. Chicken Meat has got to be one of the favorite human foods for dogs. Many dogs prefer a meal of boiled chicken and rice daily instead of kibble.

Cold sores or fever blisters are common skin conditions wherein people develop small, liquid-filled blisters on and around their lips or other areas. These blisters are caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Usually, cold sores are contagious and can be controlled through treatment. However, certain foods can worsen symptoms in individuals. Here are some foods that are best avoided while managing cold sores. Peanuts Nuts are among the biggest triggers of cold sores as they contain a large amount of arginine. This chemical causes flare-ups and worsens cold sores in people with the condition. Among nuts, peanuts and hazelnuts contain the largest reserves of this chemical, and, therefore, they must not be eaten when dealing with cold sores. Additionally, peanut butter must be avoided entirely for two to three weeks, the normal lasting period for cold sores. Oranges Citrus fruits are another big no-no when it comes to foods to eat when one is coping with cold sores. Oranges and grapefruits are known for their citrus-filled refreshing flavor; therefore, one must avoid them at all costs. Such fruits contain an acidic element that will cause pain and a burning sensation when they get into contact with a cold sore blister. Now, citrus fruits may be a significant part of some people’s daily meals. So, instead of eating oranges or grapefruits, one can replace them with alternatives such as cucumbers, bananas, or grapes to satiate their sweet cravings. Pizza Processed foods are terrible for the body in multiple ways. They cause inflammation and, as a result, worsen cold sores in individuals. Eating a pizza involves opening the mouth wide to bite into a slice. However, opening the mouth that wide may cause the blisters to split open. For these reasons, one must avoid pizza and other processed foods during this phase.

Ovarian cancer can affect women of all ages. However, in most cases, the individuals are between 50 and 60 years of age. While there are several preventive measures one can take, both gynecologists and oncologists suggest that paying attention to your daily nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of suffering from the condition. This article sheds light on a list of foods that you may include and avoid to manage ovarian cancer symptoms. Foods to Eat Garlic Apart from adding flavor to food, garlic is also known for its anti-cancer properties. Garlic is loaded with nutrients like vitamin B6, vitamin C, and selenium, which help in fighting cancer cells. An organosulfur, S-allyl cysteine (SAC), can induce apoptosis (cell suicide) in ovarian cancer cells. Grapes Grapes contain an antioxidant known as resveratrol, which blocks the formation of ovarian cancer cells in the lymphatic system. Resveratrol can decrease the risk of metastasis of ovarian cancer, which stops it from spreading into different parts of the body. Black and purple grapes have higher amounts of cancer-fighting resveratrol as compared to green grapes. Onions Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant that helps in fighting cancer by lowering inflammation in the body. At the cellular level, quercetin can induce apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells in high concentrations. Foods to Avoid Processed foods Packaged foods contain preservatives, taste enhancers, and all those additives that increase the shelf life of the food must be avoided. The ingredients might make the food tastier and increase its longevity, but they can increase the risk of one suffering from ovarian cancer. Dairy products Although dairy products are a good source of calcium, the use of common full fat is high in dairy products, including milk, cream, butter, and yogurt. Oncologists suggest that high levels of calcium can make it difficult to manage ovarian cancer symptoms.

Macular degeneration is a condition that deteriorates the center of the retina, resulting in compromised vision. There are two types of macular degeneration: wet and dry, both of which lead to loss of sight. However, wet macular degeneration also accompanies leaky blood vessels that grow under the retina as a symptom and impacts said condition. This article discusses foods to eat and avoid to relieve the symptoms associated with macular degeneration. Foods to eat: Corn, carrots, collard greens, spinach, red peppers, and sweet potatoes Colorful and pigmented vegetables are great for one’s overall health, but they’re especially recommended to protect the cells responsible for vision. Vegetables high in carotenoid should be one’s go-to option to maintain good vision and find relief from macular degeneration. Berries, oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, and pineapple Vitamin C is another potent source for good eye health. Apart from preventing vision loss, it also helps the body build collagen that helps build strong blood vessels in and around the eyes. This helps avoid the leaky blood vessels that tend to grow under the retina in case of wet macular degeneration. Fish, nuts, and seeds These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can potentially lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and slow down the symptoms of the condition. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, along with vitamin E, can reduce clogged blood vessels, making the appearance of the eyes and the skin around it much better. Foods to avoid: Foods that clog the blood vessels pose a high risk of macular degeneration, as the process can also damage the blood vessels in the eye. To find relief from macular degeneration, one must avoid the foods listed below. Processed foods These foods are high in fats, sodium, and preservatives that can cause blood vessels and arteries to close up.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease of the lungs. It occurs when the lung tissue gets damaged and scarred, causing shortness of breath, dry cough, fatigue, chest pain, appetite loss, and other discomforts. Unfortunately, there’s no complete cure for pulmonary fibrosis. However, proper nutrition can help manage the condition. This article lists the foods patients must eat and avoid, along with a few medications, including Esbriet®, as treatment options for pulmonary fibrosis. Foods to eat The following foods can help manage pulmonary fibrosis: Whole grains Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice are packed with fiber. They also have nutrients that can help lower cholesterol levels and decrease inflammation, improving the quality of life among pulmonary fibrosis patients. Lean protein Protein helps strengthen the chest and abdomen muscles, reducing breathing issues. One must choose high-quality lean proteins like skinless chicken breasts, eggs, and fatty fish. Some excellent plant-based protein sources include beans, peas, nuts, legumes, and tofu. Fruits and veggies Fresh fruits and vegetables like carrots, celery, spinach, berries, kiwi, and pineapple are loaded with a slew of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help support lung health and ease pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. Plus, they’re high in fiber and can boost digestion. Foods to avoid Certain foods can worsen pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. These include: Fried foods Fried foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, and potato chips, can cause throat irritation. This may trigger cough and also lead to bloating and gastric disturbances, making breathing difficult. Moreover, fried foods can cause fat gain, which can further worsen breathing problems. Cured meats Cured meats are loaded with nitrates, which act as a preservative and help meats maintain their color. Studies show that nitrates can damage lung tissue and worsen pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. Therefore, one must avoid cured meats like bacon, hot dogs, ham, and salami.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) occurs when there is a breakdown in the functioning of the atria or the heart’s upper chambers. Instead of beating at an average rate, the pulse begins to fibrillate, beating at a fast or irregular pace. AFib can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure, which can be fatal. To manage this condition, it is recommended to implement some lifestyle changes in addition to medical therapies. Based on available evidence, avoiding certain foods can help manage AFib better, as these have been shown to affect health and increase the risk of heart complications negatively. They may also lead to other health issues such as diabetes, cognitive decline, and certain cancers. Therefore, common foods to avoid with atrial fibrillation include: Energy drinks Energy drinks contain a large amount of caffeine, excessive sugar, and stimulants, which can negatively affect the cardiovascular system. Observational research has linked the consumption of energy drinks with serious cardiovascular events, including arrhythmias and sudden cardiac deaths. It is suggested that people with AFib avoid energy drinks. Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils and margarine According to studies, foods high in saturated and trans fats are associated with a high risk of AFib and other cardiovascular conditions. Foods like butter, cheese, and red meat contain high saturated fats. In contrast, margarine, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, certain crackers and cookies, potato chips, doughnuts, and other fried foods contain high amounts of trans fats. To improve overall heart health, reducing the intake of high-calorie processed foods and increasing fiber intake can help. Salt Salt can aggravate blood pressure, which increases the chances of AFib. Reducing sodium can help maintain heart health and lower blood pressure. According to the CDC, consuming less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily is ideal for heart health. Sugar People with diabetes mellitus are 40% more likely to develop AFib.

Nutrition is important for good health. Unhealthy food can cause damage to one’s metabolism and organs. Furthermore, various studies have suggested that food and its nutritional value significantly affect the health and aging of the skin. So, healthcare experts recommend adding healthy foods to one’s nutrition regime. Read further to know which foods help achieve glowing and blemish-free skin. Top 6 foods for glowing skin A meal plan that focuses on high-quality lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, fiber, and healthy oils is the best for supporting healthy skin. Avocados Fresh fruits such as avocados are packed with healthy fats. These fats greatly benefit the skin. Moreover, avocados are a good source of vitamin E, an important antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative damage. Tomatoes Tomato-based foods like juice and sauce may help clear up acne. Moreover, tomatoes contain a phytochemical known as lycopene, which makes them red. Lycopene boosts collagen strength and fights against the damage caused by UV rays. Ginger This superfood is best known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, multiple studies have shown that ginger has a soothing effect on the skin. So, one can also try ginger facials to achieve glowing skin. Walnuts Walnuts are a rich source of essential fatty acids, which are fats that aren’t produced by the body. This makes walnuts one of the best foods for healthy, glowing skin. Further, they contain zinc, which is required by the skin to function as a barrier. Additionally, the mineral is necessary for wound healing and combating inflammation. Carrots Carrots contain beta-carotene, which naturally helps protect the skin against sunburn. Furthermore, they are rich in vitamin A, which helps restore damaged collagen and also acts as an antioxidant to prevent the overproduction of cells in the skin’s outer layer. Including carrots in one’s daily meals can easily help achieve glowing skin.

The next time a sugary treat entices you at the supermarket, consider the fact that almost 11% of the country’s population grapples with diabetes. Easy access to foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats has spurred an unprecedented increase in the number of individuals with diabetes. However, on the bright side, here’s a list of delicious and nutritious foods to indulge in without worrying about a spike in blood sugar levels. Hard-boiled eggs Hard-boiled eggs are high-protein, low-carb food sources that slow glucose absorption and aid digestion. Research suggests that consuming approximately two eggs a day has no adverse effects on the body in terms of cholesterol, blood sugar, and other parameters. Moreover, it typically enhances one’s fasting blood sugar levels. Boiled chickpeas The American Diabetes Association recommends chickpeas as high-fiber foods linked with low blood sugar levels. A bowl of boiled chickpeas garnished with pepper, lemon juice, and coriander leaves can fill one up till dinnertime! Fresh berries Berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries are great additions to one’s meal plan if they have been diagnosed with type-2 diabetes. Berries typically have a low glycemic index and are packed with essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. One may consume them directly or add them to their porridge and smoothies. Nuts One may stock up on walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews, and peanuts, as these contain vitamin E, fiber, carotenoids, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making them ideal snacks for people with diabetes. However, avoid salted nuts as these are highly processed and may increase one’s risk for auto-immune conditions. Green soups and smoothies Broccoli, spinach, beet greens, kale, cabbage, and the like are considered nutritious leafy greens for individuals with diabetes as they have a low glycemic index, low starch, and high vitamin A and E levels. Thus, soups and smoothies with leafy greens, seasoned with some pepper and lime juice, are healthy, sumptuous snacks for regulating sugar levels.

The key to managing diabetes is to follow a healthy diet that can keep your blood sugar levels in control. What you eat in your meal has a direct effect on how much sugar your blood contains. So, making the right food choices is going to help you manage blood glucose levels better. At the same time, keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all diet for patients diagnosed with diabetes and you must consult your doctor before making major dietary changes. Your doctor will come up with a meal plan to tell you what you can eat for your main meals and snacks in between meals. The plan also contains details on how much of these foods you should have. A healthy diet for those with diabetes should typically have 40%-60% calories from carbs, 30% or less from fats, and 20% from proteins. How to make a diet plan to manage diabetes? The idea is to follow a diet plan which is low in sodium, cholesterol, and added sugar. You need to identify which foods cause your blood sugar levels to spike. It is not always the type of food that you consume, but the combination of foods that you eat, which can be harmful when you have diabetes. To begin with, you must know how to measure portions and count carbs as they have the most impact on blood glucose levels. Individuals who take insulin at mealtimes need to know the portion of carbs in their meals to make sure they get the right dose. Every meal must be well-balanced, with a good blend of carbs, fruits, veggies, fats, and proteins. Carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are good for people with diabetes because they are fiber-rich and keep blood glucose levels stable. You must also adjust your diet and medicines.

Traveling by train is a privilege not everyone can have on a daily basis. Moreover, traversing long distances by train can be exciting and challenging. Despite its seemingly straightforward nature, people make some mistakes when traveling by train. First-time or infrequent travelers generally make these mistakes, which can reduce the overall experience of long-distance train journeys. Here are four common mistakes to avoid when traveling by train. Relying solely on train food A common mistake people tend to make in the pre-booking phase is assuming that food will be served onboard the train. That detail is usually specified in the itinerary and can be seen when one books a ticket online or offline. One should certainly know whether the train they are boarding for a long journey has food served onboard or not. Once in, another common mistake people make is relying solely on train food. Now, eating train food is convenient; however, it is still processed food to a certain degree, and its health-related credibility can be slightly questionable. Ideally, one should get food from home when on a train journey. Not reading the itinerary carefully The itinerary contains all the details of a given journey, such as the stations at which the train will stop, the ETA at the destination, and the seat information. Not reading all these details carefully and then not making necessary changes can be significant mistakes, especially if they come in as shocks during the journey itself. That can be corrected by avoiding the next mistake on the list. Not booking tickets in advance People often miss reading the tickets or itinerary carefully when in a hurry. That happens when travelers book their tickets and the holiday schedule at the last minute. When one books at such a late stage, the ticket prices are at their highest, the best seats are often taken, and travelers have little choice in anything they wish to include in their reservation.