4 foods that help maintain a healthy prostate

4 foods that help maintain a healthy prostate

The prostate gland is an essential organ that is responsible for the nourishment and transportation of sperm. Recent times have seen a rise in prostate-related issues in men. This trend makes adopting a healthier lifestyle all the more crucial. A prime lifestyle change one can adopt is including healthier foods in their daily meal plan. Herein, we discuss other natural ways for better prostate health as well as recommended foods and medications: Better prostate health is possible with foods like Broccoli This highly nutritious vegetable contains several essential complex compounds that aid in protecting the prostate from serious diseases. Legumes Legumes are rich in phytoestrogens and are believed to suppress the growth of cancer cells in the prostate. Examples include beans, lentils, and peanuts. Tomatoes Including tomatoes in daily meals ensures a healthy prostate thanks to the abundance of the antioxidant lycopene that helps prevent and control cell damage. Pomegranate juice Pomegranate extract and juice contain bioactive components that supress cancer cells and keep the prostate gland healthy. However, choosing a sugar-free juice is essential. These lifestyle changes will natural promote a healthy prostate: Getting more exercise Excess weight is a major risk factors of prostate-related issues. Working out, jogging, or simply brisk walking for 30 mins daily can suffice. Cutting down alcohol While a few drinks on occasion doesn’t pose much harm, forming a habit can cause irreversible damage. So, going easy or simply avoiding on alcohol keeps the prostate healthy. While there may be natural ways that ensure good prostate health, one might still stand a risk of suffering from illnesses of this gland. The foods and natural ways mentioned above may reduce the risk, but knowing which medications effectively help in maintaining prostate health is important. Some of them are Prosvent This supplement helps in maintaining a healthy prostate and enhancing vitality.
Top 7 foods that help relieve migraines

Top 7 foods that help relieve migraines

Migraine, marked by a severe headache and throbbing pain, is a common phenomenon that affects many people. There are several reasons for it, including sensory stimuli, stress, weather changes, hormonal changes, and other underlying health conditions. When the neural activity becomes overactive, it gets more sensitive and causes migraine. To avoid this, it is important to make changes to one’s food regime. Adding certain foods discussed below to one’s daily meals can help relieve migraines. Leafy greens like spinach and kale Spinach and kale are both leafy greens that contain magnesium, which has shown to prevent neurons from becoming hypersensitive. This, in turn, helps keep migraines at bay. Kale is also rich in fiber, but one may require some time to get used to its strong taste. These versatile foods can be blended into soups, salads, pastas, as well as chips. Scrambled eggs Eggs are a nutrient powerhouse that also provide migraine-fighting benefits of magnesium along with other additional nutrients including protein, essential vitamins, and zinc. They are also incredibly easy to make and an affordable option to include in one’s daily food regime. Almonds Almonds are one of the best foods for migraines as they contain magnesium and essential fats and fiber, which can also bring overall health benefits to individuals. A couple of magnesium-rich alternatives are cashews and Brazil nuts. Having said that, it’s best to have these nuts in moderation to avoid other health concerns. Ginger Ginger has medicinal properties and has been traditionally considered a home remedy for migraine and inflammation. One can have hot ginger tea or add an inch of it in salad and regular meals to prevent and manage migraines. Dark chocolate Dark chocolate without any added sugar provides numerous health benefits and works wonders particularly for migraines. The cocoa regulates one’s blood pressure, which is a leading cause of migraines, especially in females.
10 Deals on Smartwatches to Expect for Black Friday 2023

10 Deals on Smartwatches to Expect for Black Friday 2023

Smartwatches and fitness trackers have quickly gained popularity. With most people opting for smartwatches over regular watches for their daily lives, these devices offer more than just convenience. They are equipped with fitness and activity trackers and instantly notify users about calls, texts, and other important events. For those considering buying a new smartwatch, looking for deals around Black Friday 2023 may be a good idea. Here are some expected deals for this year: Luxe smartwatches 1. The Garmin Venu 2 was marked down by $50, bringing its retail price to $349 for Black Friday last year. The watch comes with preloaded workouts and sports apps, including walking, running, cardio, strength training, yoga, HIIT, and more. It also has monitoring and tracking features that capture body battery energy levels, sleep scores, insights, stress tracking, etc. The smartwatch also has music and voice assistant and a battery that can run up to 9 days on a single charge. 2. The Fossil Gen 6 retailed for $139 last year, down from its original price of $218.99. This premium watch has all health and activity tracking features, such as ECG, sleep monitor, body composition analysis, VO2 Max readings, and more. Budget-friendly smartwatches 3. The Fitbit Luxe sported a 15% discount at sales last year, bringing its price down to $109.95. With a battery life of up to five days, this watch is a great tool to help one get better sleep with tracking and sleep score and get in touch with body health metrics like breathing rate, heart rate variability, etc. 4. Buyers could get up to $150 off on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic last year, bringing its price down to $199. The watch has sensors such as an accelerometer, barometer, gyro sensor, geomagnetic sensor, light sensor, optical heart rate sensor, electrical heart sensor, bioelectrical impedance analysis sensor, and a hall sensor.
4 bad habits that could lead to kidney failure

4 bad habits that could lead to kidney failure

The kidneys are vital organs that help remove waste and excess fluid from the bloodstream. Kidney failure is a severe disorder where the kidneys lose their ability to function correctly, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. To prevent this condition, individuals must follow healthy lifestyle practices and avoid anything that can harm these organs. Several bad habits can lead to kidney failure, the most common ones being: Poor food choices Processed foods have a lot of sodium and sugar, which can strain the kidneys. It can lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, and other ailments that increase the risk of kidney disease. Processed foods also have phosphorus, another component that can harm the organ. Besides processed foods, individuals should avoid eating too much meat. High amounts of animal protein can cause excess acid production in the blood, leading to a kidney disorder called acidosis. While protein is essential for a healthy body, individuals should speak to a nutritionist to learn about the right kind of protein and the maximum quantity that can be safely consumed in a day. Experts recommend a meal plan rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and good fats to keep the kidneys healthy. Lack of exercise It is no secret that exercise is essential in keeping the body and mind healthy. The same applies to kidney health too. The National Kidney Foundation suggests individuals with kidney disease may benefit from exercise as it improves muscle function, lowers blood pressure, keeps cholesterol under control, and improves sleep, which in turn helps avoid many health complications. One can consult a health expert to learn about the best exercises and physical activities for their condition. Not staying hydrated The kidneys’ primary function is to help remove waste from the blood and expel it from the body through urine.
Common signs of a poor immune system due to excessive sugar intake

Common signs of a poor immune system due to excessive sugar intake

Today, sugar-laden treats are readily available, which tempt one at every turn. While the occasional sweet indulgence may seem harmless, excessive sugar consumption can silently or indirectly impair one’s immune system, the body’s defense mechanism against illness and infections. It’s essential to recognize the impact of sugar on one’s immune health. Here are a few common indicators of a compromised immune system due to excessive sugar intake. Check them out. Effect of glucose on one’s immune system Glucose is needed for the body to produce energy. In moderate amounts, it can support one’s daily activity. Still, excessive consumption of refined sugar and carbohydrates can cause various health issues, including a higher risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. It also affects one’s immune system, a complex network of cells and tissues that work in tandem to defend one’s body from foreign invaders and maintain one’s overall health. Any spikes in sugar intake suppress the optimal functioning of one’s immune system. Those with type 2 diabetes, a common autoimmune disease marked by high blood glucose levels, are among those who get affected the most. A diabetic person’s immune system recognizes sugar as a harmful substance and triggers an inflammatory response. This inflammation can damage the pancreatic cells, which are tasked with producing a sugar-regulating substance called insulin. This, in turn, makes the body more vulnerable to infections as one’s immunity struggles to control harmful bacteria and viruses. Signs of a compromised immune system due to high sugar Here are a few signs to be aware of: Frequent infections: White blood cells responsible for combating harmful viruses and bacteria become less effective in targeting and neutralizing these when one’s glucose levels are high. This makes people catch infections like the flu, a cold, or other viral infections more frequently and easily. Delayed wound healing:
Top 3 counties with the highest cancer rates

Top 3 counties with the highest cancer rates

Not many people may realize this, but the location of an individual’s residence plays a huge part in their overall health. The pollution, changing climatic conditions, and exposure to carcinogens can lead to serious conditions, such as hypertension and cancer. Over the years, there has been significant research on which counties have the highest rates of cancer. This article talks about the top 3 counties in the country that qualify. Top 3 Counties with the Most Cases of Cancer Union County, Florida This county ranks first in the list of counties with the highest rates for all types of cancer. It ranks high for cases of lung cancer, leukemia, and colon and rectal cancer. Union County’s high rate of 1,135 cancer cases every 100,000 people is almost double the second entry on the list. It was recognized as the least healthy county in 2017. The lack of funds and poverty levels prevalent in the area could be the leading cause of cancer since it prevents citizens from accessing the health services required. Logan County, Nebraska With 677.2 cancer cases per every 100,000 people, this county comes in second on the list. It ranks high for the most Non-Hodgkin lymphoma fatalities. Research states that, in general, men are more likely to die from cancer than women, while individuals of African descent have the highest cancer mortality rates. Other factors, such as environmental risks, poverty, and lack of medical supplies or care, also play an important role. These disparities are not the same in all U.S. counties, but certain risk factors specific to Logan County may explain the high deaths from cancer. Powell County, Kentucky Powell County is third on the list, with 646.2 cancer cases for every 100,000 people. It ranks high in lung cancer deaths too. Geography plays an important role in the distribution of lung cancer cases and deaths.
The effects of pineapples on the skin

The effects of pineapples on the skin

Pineapples are abundant in antioxidants, fibers, vitamins, and water – properties that are beneficial for the skin. Therefore, people often eat pineapples or apply them topically to their skin to boost their skin health. However, there are a few points to note before eating the fruit or before applying it topically. It is also recommended to consult a health professional before applying any such fruit to the skin. The benefits of consuming pineapples Pineapples contain multiple health benefits. The fruit contains bromelain – a powerful enzyme with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties when it comes to skin. The fruit also contains vitamin C, which also has benefits for the skin like: Increasing collagen production to give the skin structure and maintain plasticity Preventing damage to skin cells caused by free radicals Improving the pace of healing wounds by complimenting the production of new skin cells Topical benefits of pineapples People often resort to applying pineapple to their skin in the form of homemade serums and face masks. There even exist skincare products that contain pineapple extract or bromelain. Some studies describe the benefits of applying pineapple-based products to the skin. Face wash with bromelain extract is known to prevent acne-causing bacteria. People who applied the pineapple extract cream twice daily noticed a reduction in skin irritation, oil production, and melasma. The limitations of the topical/oral use of pineapples Though pineapple extracts are beneficial to the skin, applying too much may have adverse effects. The risk factors of consuming pineapples or applying lotions with pineapple extracts include: A slightly swollen tongue or redness around the mouth (the symptom may occur because bromelain is a potent enzyme and a common cause of skin irritation) No strong evidence to show positive results of topical use of pineapples The skin does not easily absorb the healthy properties of fresh pineapples Conclusion Pineapples contain several antioxidants, nutrients, and a healthy enzyme that benefits the skin.
6 foods to avoid to manage diabetes

6 foods to avoid to manage diabetes

Food plays an important role in managing diabetes. According to several studies, the most severe and chronic diabetes cases and complications triggered by the condition are caused by the excessive consumption of unhealthy foods. These can increase insulin resistance and heighten blood sugar levels in the body. It is, therefore, important to learn about the foods that can worsen the condition. Here are some of the foods that those with diabetes should avoid. Flavored coffee drinks Flavored coffee drinks, unlike regular coffee, are loaded with sugar, carbohydrates, and calories, all of which may lead to an increase in weight and spikes in blood sugar levels. Such complications will eventually lead to a severe form of diabetes and other health conditions, like high blood pressure and cholesterol. Margarine Margarine is used as a healthy alternative to butter because it is low in saturated fats. However, the food contains high levels of trans fats. These fats may trigger inflammation, increase insulin resistance, and reduce the healthy cholesterol levels in the body. White bread White bread is a processed food that is rich in carbohydrates. Studies indicate that foods high in carbohydrates may raise blood sugar levels in those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. They may also affect brain function, especially in those with type 2 diabetes and mental health issues. Sugary drinks Drinks like sodas, sweetened ice tea, and lemonade are extremely high in carbohydrates. These drinks also contain excessive fructose levels. These can influence the body to resist insulin and worsen diabetes. Fruit-flavored yogurt While plain yogurt is suitable for those with diabetes, fruit-flavored yogurt has the opposite effect. Such yogurt is derived from nonfat or low-fat milk with high concentrations of sugar and carbohydrates. So as delicious as fruit-flavored yogurt may taste, one must steer clear of the food to avoid unnecessary spikes in blood sugar and insulin.
6 tips to keep the lungs healthy

6 tips to keep the lungs healthy

Our lungs help us breathe in oxygen and filter out harmful pollutants from the air. Therefore, it is essential to care for the lungs and keep them healthy. Poor lung health can increase the risk of several respiratory conditions that impact a person’s quality of life and lead to other complications. Keeping this in mind, we have put together a few simple tips to ensure your lungs remain healthy and functioning properly. Reduce exposure to air pollution A great way to maintain healthy lungs is to reduce exposure to environmental pollutants. Stay indoors as far as possible on high air pollution days and wear a face mask before leaving the house. While we cannot always control our environment, these steps will help prevent you from inhaling tiny particles that can harm the lungs. Regular exercise Another way to keep your lungs healthy is to exercise and indulge in physical activity regularly. Taking long walks amidst nature or practicing yoga can improve lung function and reduce the risk of respiratory diseases. Managing stress Research suggests stress can impact respiratory health by causing rapid breathing and inflammation. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing and pursuing a hobby are two ways to cope with stress and thus support the lungs. Proper nutrition and hydration Nutrition plays a vital role in improving the function of many organs in the body, including the lungs. So, follow a balanced meal plan and drink sufficient water throughout the day. A few healthy foods are beet greens, peppers, apples, blueberries, and turmeric. Regular check-ups Going for regular check-ups can help keep the lungs healthy. A healthcare expert can use different diagnostic tests to detect any problem in the organ early and ensure you receive the care you need for a speedy recovery. Vaccination Staying updated on vaccinations can defend the lungs against respiratory conditions and prevent their spread.
4 key questions to ask a radiologist

4 key questions to ask a radiologist

When undergoing any kind of treatment, it is important to have an understanding of the procedures, risks involved, and the recovery process. For instance, radiology involves diagnosing and treating injuries or illnesses detected with the help of imaging procedures, like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. So, when consulting a radiologist, you should not hesitate to address necessary queries concerning your health. So, here are some questions you need to ask a radiologist: What is the purpose of the test? It is important to understand why a specific diagnostic test is recommended by the radiologist. You should ask the doctor about how the test will detect or confirm a health issue and the outcome you can expect. Are there any risks to consider? Most imaging tests are considered to be safe, but it is always important to ask about any side effects or risks. For example, when undergoing an MRI, you should have no metal objects on your body or clothes. Similarly, other tests might require distinct precautions to avoid safety hazards. How is the test conducted? It is always a good idea to ask your radiologist about the test procedure. They can help make you understand the steps involved in the process, how long the procedure is, and if there is any preparation required. An ultrasound of the abdomen usually requires you to drink a lot of water so that the imaging is clear; access to such information can help alleviate any anxiety regarding the process. Can you explain the results? Once the tests are done, the doctor will let you know when the results can be expected. If not, you can ask the radiologist how long will the results take and if you need to book any subsequent appointment to discuss the results. Additionally, the results are likely to invite new questions, usually regarding the next step and if any treatment is required.
6 foods to whiten teeth naturally

6 foods to whiten teeth naturally

Pearly white teeth are the essence of a confident and radiant smile. However, achieving and maintaining clean, white teeth requires a lot more than regular brushing and flossing; individuals also need to focus on nutrition. Besides serving as tasty and nutritious snacks, the following foods are known for their natural teeth whitening properties. They are great alternatives to commercial teeth whitening products, which often contain chemicals that can be harmful. Onions Onions not only add flavor to meals but also aid in improving oral health. They contain antibacterial sulfur compounds, which are crucial in preventing plaque formation. By averting plaque, onions help maintain strong, white teeth. Strawberries Strawberries are rich in malic acid, which acts as a gentle teeth whitener. It helps remove surface stains from one’s teeth and prevents plaque formation. Additionally, strawberries enhance saliva production, which is necessary for natural cleaning and whitening of teeth. Pineapples Besides being tropical treats, pineapples are known to clean and whiten teeth naturally. The fruit is packed with proteolytic enzymes, which help break down stains and prevent plaque, promoting a naturally whiter smile. Papaya is another fruit that has similar effects. Apples Apples are rich in malic acid, which contributes to natural teeth whitening. They are also known for their high water content, which enhances saliva production. Saliva helps naturally clean the teeth by washing away bacteria and debris. The crisp texture of apples also stimulates saliva production in the mouth. Oranges Oranges are rich sources of vitamin C and citric acid, which rinse the teeth and help eliminate harmful bacteria. They also enhance saliva production. These properties contribute to a healthier mouth and whiter teeth. Oranges and other citrus fruits also serve as a refreshing snack for everyone. Carrots Chewing on carrots not only provides a satisfying crunch but also contributes to better dental health.
Asthma treatment and management tips

Asthma treatment and management tips

There are various treatment options for the common problem of asthma. It is a long-term disease that usually has no cure but can be dealt with minor adjustments, medications and lifestyle changes. Most people see that their asthma gets cured as they age, so most of the asthma treatment options involve controlling the disease. A proper asthma treatment plan helps: Prevent chronic and troubling symptoms like shortness of breath, tightness in chest and coughing. Reduce the patients need for medicines considered to be a quick relief. Maintain steady levels of lung function. Maintain a steady breathing rhythm to enable sleep throughout the night. Maintain normal levels of everyday activity. Avoid, monitor and prevent emergency asthma attacks that may need immediate attention. The best way to control asthma and manage it as a part of everyday life is to partner with the doctor completely and follow strictly the instructions and medications routines that are recommended. How can one take in active role in controlling and treating asthma? Here are some tips to control asthma. Be aware of the condition and how and when it affects you. Work alongside your doctor and identify and treat other health conditions that may potentially interfere with the management of the main problem of asthma. Avoid things and triggers that make asthma worse. Maintain a decent level of physical activity despite asthma as it is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and it helps prevent other health conditions apart from being good for mental health. There are medicines available that help an asthma patient stay active and pursue physical activities with ease. Work with health experts to follow a good action plan that helps manage the problem. An action plan aimed towards managing asthma involves receiving guidance on the medicines and exercises and lifestyle changes required, avoiding triggers of asthma, tracking the severity and level of the problem, actively responding to symptoms that are getting worse and seeking and receiving emergency care whenever required.