It is the time of the year when many in the country plan a vacation, and one of the most popular getaways is cruise trips. Once aboard, people get to experience a suite of activities, events, and delicacies. However, at the cruise buffets, most people choose foods that can lead to an upset stomach, making them unable to enjoy the rest of the trip. So, here are foods to avoid on a cruise: Scrambled eggs Scrambled eggs, if not part of a made-to-order breakfast, can get dry and soggy in a few hours on the breakfast station, making them unpleasant to eat. Many cruise liners may also serve scrambled eggs using powdered or liquid mixes. So, the eggs can be unhealthy for passengers on a cruise ship. Sushi While cruise ships take food hygiene seriously, there is always room for error. So when you see sushi at the buffet, it is possible that the dish is not entirely fresh and has been left on the serving station for a long time. In either case, it can cause an upset stomach that lasts for days. Communal condiments During one’s time on the ship, passengers can find huge bottles of tomato sauce, mustard sauce, and other condiments during meal times. These bottles are touched by hundreds of people and can become a hub for germs. So one should consider avoiding the bottles and asking for sachets of their favorite condiment at the buffet. Oysters It can be hard to pass up on oysters while sailing the ocean waters. But when they are not cooked well, the food may contain strains of Vibrio bacteria. The bacteria-ridden oyster can cause bloodstream infections, skin lesions, and blisters, severely affecting one’s health and overall cruise experience. Potato salads Freshly scrubbed potatoes served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner might be delicious and safe.

For several women, excruciating pain and cramps are synonymous with periods. Research suggests that approximately 80% of individuals who menstruate experience period pain at some point. Adequate care and rest are essential to overcome period pain and avoid nutritional deficiencies during this time. Alongside maintaining a proper meal plan, avoiding certain types of foods, and staying as physically active as possible, avoiding these few common mistakes can help women manage better during their period. Using scented tampons or pads Besides causing irritation and discomfort, scented tampons and pads also alter the vagina’s pH balance, leading to problems like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Scented tampons and pads can also contribute to vaginal itching and odor. Thus, it is important to use unscented menstrual products at all times to avoid compromising menstrual health. Staying dehydrated The body loses more fluids during periods than on regular days. Consequently, it requires more water to perform daily functions like lubricating joints, controlling body temperature, regulating bowel movements, and providing nutrients and oxygen to the cells. Dehydration can slow down these processes significantly, aggravating one’s discomfort and weakening their immunity. It helps to set water reminders on one’s phone or smartwatch to stay hydrated during the menstrual cycle. Avoiding healthy foods About 50% of women in the country report having chocolate cravings during their period. While it is permissible to have small quantities of such foods to satisfy one’s cravings, avoiding healthy foods can deprive the body of basic essential nutrients. While menstruating, it is essential to incorporate foods like cruciferous vegetables, dates, leafy greens, fatty fish, whole grains, and lean meats, which can replenish the body with the required nutrients and control PMS symptoms. Not tracking one’s cycle Many women commit the mistake of tracking their periods only while trying to get pregnant. However, tracking one’s menstrual cycle can also help manage various health issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and understand one’s moods, hormonal changes, and other factors better.

For several women, excruciating pain and cramps are synonymous with periods. Research suggests that approximately 80% of individuals who menstruate experience period pain at some point. Adequate care and rest are essential to overcome period pain and avoid nutritional deficiencies during this time. Alongside maintaining a proper meal plan, avoiding certain types of foods, and staying as physically active as possible, avoiding these few common mistakes can help women manage better during their period. Using scented tampons or pads Besides causing irritation and discomfort, scented tampons and pads also alter the vagina’s pH balance, leading to problems like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Scented tampons and pads can also contribute to vaginal itching and odor. Thus, it is important to use unscented menstrual products at all times to avoid compromising menstrual health. Staying dehydrated The body loses more fluids during periods than on regular days. Consequently, it requires more water to perform daily functions like lubricating joints, controlling body temperature, regulating bowel movements, and providing nutrients and oxygen to the cells. Dehydration can slow down these processes significantly, aggravating one’s discomfort and weakening their immunity. It helps to set water reminders on one’s phone or smartwatch to stay hydrated during the menstrual cycle. Avoiding healthy foods About 50% of women in the country report having chocolate cravings during their period. While it is permissible to have small quantities of such foods to satisfy one’s cravings, avoiding healthy foods can deprive the body of basic essential nutrients. While menstruating, it is essential to incorporate foods like cruciferous vegetables, dates, leafy greens, fatty fish, whole grains, and lean meats, which can replenish the body with the required nutrients and control PMS symptoms. Not tracking one’s cycle Many women commit the mistake of tracking their periods only while trying to get pregnant. However, tracking one’s menstrual cycle can also help manage various health issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and understand one’s moods, hormonal changes, and other factors better.

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatments, it can be an overwhelming experience. It takes a toll on your physical and mental health. Sometimes there can be concerns about health that you may not have an answer to, and you may feel embarrassed talking to an oncologist. However, there is nothing wrong with asking those questions. Here are some of those embarrassing questions that you can ask an oncologist. Does cancer treatment affect bowel control? Some side effects of cancer treatments like surgery or radiation therapy can involve some bladder and bowel complications. This includes symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, or even urinary incontinence. It is important to understand the extent of these side effects and prepare yourself to prevent any shocks. Does chemotherapy or radiation affect sex life? Studies have suggested that going through long phases of chemotherapy or radiation can possibly cause sexual dysfunction in some people. This can mean side effects like erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and also decreased libido. Usually, the side effects are temporary and last till the treatment process. However, sometimes, there may also be long-term side effects. This may also depend on the dosage of the treatment and the duration of it. Having an honest conversation with your oncologist about these concerns will help clear out doubts. Does cancer treatment lead to hair loss? Hair loss is a common side effect during chemotherapy in some patients. Radiation can also cause hair loss, but usually, it is contained to just the area of treatment. This affects all patients differently, but it is best to be mentally prepared for it. Also, due to the cancer treatments, the appetite may also be affected. However, this depends on the duration of the treatment and also on the treatment type and dosage. Speaking to your oncologist about the specific side effects is recommended.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those aged 65 and above. Others who qualify for this plan include people with disabilities, End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure), or Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS). Given the complexities associated with these plans, some people may find it challenging to navigate the insurance landscape. To simplify this process, this article lists three mistakes people must avoid making when taking Medicare plan coverage. Missing the deadlines Missing the Medicare sign-up deadline is one of the biggest mistakes when taking Medicare plan coverage. Those receiving social benefits over 65 are automatically enrolled in the program. However, others need to enroll for Medicare in the initial enrollment period, which: Starts three months before one’s 65th birthday Includes the month one turns 65, and Ends three months after one turns 65. Failing to enroll in Medicare in this period could result in a coverage gap. It could also lead to a lifetime late enrollment penalty, increasing with age. Assuming spouse coverage Unlike employee insurance programs, Medicare does not automatically cover the entire family. It is meant to provide insurance at an individual level. Those with spouses under 65 may need to opt for alternative insurance plans for their partners, such as an employer-based plan, a COBRA plan, or an individual health insurance policy. Not having the right Medicare coverage One may be eligible for four parts of Medicare – parts A, B, C, and D. Part A (inpatient coverage) is usually free. However, the others require the payment of a monthly premium. Medicare Part B covers outpatient care and doctor’s visits. Private companies offer Part C (or Medicare Advantage) for improved coverage, with many plans including vision, hearing, and dental coverage. Medicare Part D offers prescription coverage as set by Medicare. Signing up for the right Medicare plans based on one’s medical needs and expenses can help reduce health-related expenses and save money.

Having a pet is an incredibly rewarding and heartwarming experience, but caring for them isn’t easy. It requires a lot of involvement, whether it is in the form of time, attention, or resources. A pet’s health and happiness depend on many factors, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, preventive measures, mental stimulation, a loving environment, and more. However, some mistakes that pet parents make may compromise their pet’s health and well-being. Ignoring fleas and ticks Pet parents often make the mistake of ignoring minor fleas and ticks, thinking that they will go away on their own. But fleas and ticks are pests that not only cause pets discomfort but also put them at risk of developing infections, skin irritation, and other diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. So, one should regularly check for signs of these pests and use measures like flea collars and treatments, especially during warmer months, to ensure optimal pet health. Not paying attention to oral hygiene Pets may not necessarily need brushing and flossing daily as humans do, but they require a certain level of dental care. Poor oral hygiene can cause tartar buildup, gum disease, or heart or kidney issues. While brushing a pet’s teeth is the best option to maintain their oral hygiene, chewable toys like chewables by PetSmart, especially for dogs, are also an option. These easy-to-digest treats give clean teeth, fresh breath, and mental stimulation. One can get chewable PetSmart items in different sizes and tastes. Not using identification tags Using an identification tag is often overlooked as a simple precautionary measure. A collar with an ID tag contains all the necessary information about the pet owner’s phone number, name, and, in some cases, home address. It ensures the pet is never lost or, if found, can be returned to safety and reunited with their owner.

It has been observed that those who have schizophrenia, a chronic psychological illness, usually have diets that are unhealthy, low in fiber and fruit, and high in saturated fats. Unhealthy eating habits typically lead to other health problems which can also put people with schizophrenia at high risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more. According to research, dietary changes do really help manage schizophrenia. Here are some best and worst foods for schizophrenia. Foods to eat Fruits Many studies show that people with schizophrenia usually do not get enough fiber, and thus, need to eat fruits. Some of the best sources of fiber are apples, pears, and raspberries. Fiber not only helps reduce bad cholesterol but also helps in digestion, thereby reducing the chances of certain health problems associated with schizophrenia such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Vegetables Vegetables don’t have heart-heavy cholesterol, are packed with essential vitamins and fiber, and are low in calories and fat. Veggies like sweet potatoes, kidney beans, and lima beans contain potassium that could help in keeping blood sugar in check. The best food for schizophrenia is spinach as it is high in folate, which could help in easing symptoms of schizophrenia. Apart from spinach, folate can also be found in asparagus and black-eyed peas. Fatty fish Since omega-3 fatty acids cannot be produced by the body, one needs to get them through food such as fatty fish like salmon and mackerel. Omega-3 fatty acids not only ease but also prevent the symptoms of schizophrenia and even slow down the progress of the disease. Vegetarians can intake walnuts and ask their doctor to prescribe omega-3 supplements. Crab and oysters According to research, there could exist a relationship between schizophrenia and low levels of zinc, which can be found in lobsters, crab, and oysters, as well as fortified cereals and beef.

The prostate is a small, rubbery gland in the male reproductive system that produces seminal fluid. The seminal fluid mixes with the sperm from the testes and helps it travel and survive. An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)) is a common condition where the prostate obstructs the urethra and affects urine flow from the bladder. This article has listed five foods and treatments to help treat and manage an enlarged prostate. Sesame seeds Sesame seeds, almonds, and pumpkin seeds contain good levels of zinc that get absorbed by the body. Since people affected by BPH have lower zinc levels, this food can help replenish the mineral. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of BPH. Eating cooked tomatoes is known to curb the symptoms of an enlarged prostate and reduce any prostatic inflammation. Consume lycopene-rich foods with healthy fats to enhance their healing effects. Salmon Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats praised for their inflammation-reducing properties. Other fish include tuna and mackerel, which are also efficient omega-3 sources. Vegetables Leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants and minerals required for the body to function properly. Add veggies like bell peppers, onions, spinach, garlic, and broccoli to your meals for a healthier prostate. Berries Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries possess high levels of antioxidants. These properties protect the body against oxidative damage and fight free radicals, thus protecting the prostate from potential illness. Treatments Other than the foods mentioned above, one can even try out these prescriptions and supplements to reduce BPH symptoms. Prosvent Prostate This treatment is made from natural ingredients such as pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto. With 60 capsules in a bottle, it promotes a healthy prostate and bladder function. It also helps improve the person’s lifestyle.

The air in our homes is not perpetually clean. There are many chemicals, harmful gases, dust, and other airborne allergens that degrade the air quality in your home. These pollutants often stem from external factors and even the appliances you use at home. Furthermore, such pollutants can deteriorate health and trigger several health problems when inhaled. Therefore, here are 11 ways to keep the indoor air quality in your home clean. Open the windows Opening the window will let oxygen in and remove any harmful toxins in the air. It can even help keep the room breezy in the summers. Do not use aerosol sprays Aerosol sprays release harmful chemicals into the air. So you must use non-aerosol versions when it comes to hair sprays, furniture polish, and deodorants. Mop hard floor surfaces Mopping surfaces made from hardwood, vinyl floors, tile, or other toughened materials with a disinfectant will keep your home free of allergens. Inspect the air vents HVAC systems filter out harmful substances from the air to keep the atmosphere inside your room clean. Clean such air vents periodically to ensure they are working properly. Use exhausts Moisture in your home can lead to mildew, bugs, bacteria, and mold. Use the exhaust in the bathroom, kitchen, or use a dehumidifier. It will ensure moisture levels are kept in check. Vacuum the carpets Flooring, especially the ones with carpets and rugs, may collect disease-causing allergens. Vacuuming the carpets regularly can help keep the risk from such allergens at a minimum. Check the furniture Avoid furniture that is treated with formaldehyde and stuck with toxic glue. They contain harmful chemicals that can trigger several health conditions. Use zero-VOC paint Before painting your home, ensure the label reads “zero VOC” or “low COV.” These have a low content of harmful chemicals and leave the air quality of your home unaffected.

Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine—the part of the body that plays a crucial role in digestion and waste elimination. Cancer is a serious and life-threatening condition, and it is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions when dealing with it. Poor eating habits increase the risk of colon cancer, so in addition to treatment, some superfoods can improve gut health and boost immunity. Here are some foods that can help manage colon cancer: Beans and legumes Beans and legumes are great options when it comes to combating colon cancer. Specifically, black beans contain certain fatty acids that protect against the growth of certain cancer cells. Berries Berries contain high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients that are good for our gut health. Certain berries, such as black raspberries, contain high levels of anthocyanins, which restricts the growth of cancer cells in the body. Carrots Carrots contain beta-carotene, which can curtail the growth of abnormal cells. They also have other nutrients that can protect one against other types of cancer. Fish Fish like salmon and herring are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining heart health and can fight the growth of new cancer cells. Cruciferous vegetables Vegetables like broccoli, kale, cabbage, and cauliflower contain substantial amounts of sulforaphane, which can minimize cancer risk and improve the body’s immunity. Nuts Nuts have been linked to a reduced rate of cancer recurrence and death in patients with third-stage colorectal cancer. Spinach Spinach is rich in fiber and folate, which help digestion and reduce the risk of colon cancer. The vegetable also contains carotenoids, which have been linked to helping the body fight against cancer cells. While these foods can help fight the risk of colon cancer, other foods can increase the risk of developing the condition or worsening the symptoms.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition where the body does not generate enough insulin or cannot use it efficiently to control sugar levels. The condition affects about 37 million people in the country and is also a leading cause of kidney failure and adult blindness and a reason for lower-limb amputations. Some remedies help manage this condition; however, one can also curb symptoms by regularly following exercises. Check out some of such helpful activities below. Daily walks Walking is an ideal way of managing diabetes. Try brisk strolls for half an hour three to four times a week, or take your pet dog for a walk. You can also track your walking progress through fitness apps to make exercising fun. Swimming Swimming enhances the muscles in the upper and lower body. Strong muscle movements while swimming helps burn calories, lower cholesterol, and improve heart health. Swimming also does not strain the joints as other exercise routines would. Trying dance routines Dancing helps lower stress levels, burn calories, curb blood sugar, and benefit the heat. Dancing for around half an hour every day for three days a week will help improve symptoms of diabetes. Cycling Those experiencing diabetes symptoms should consider cycling for about 30 minutes daily, three to five times a week. The activity will help burn excess blood sugar and improve heart rate. Cycling is also known to help one get in shape without affecting the knees and other joints. Climbing stairs Climbing stairs helps the heart and lungs work faster, which benefits people with type 2 diabetes. Going up and down stairs for three minutes after an hour or two following a meal will help burn blood sugar. Gardening Gardening works as a strength training exercise and an aerobic activity. An individual may kneel, walk, and bend while digging, lifting, and raking the garden.

It is no exaggeration to say that, at least biologically, people are what they eat. Bone health, especially, depends heavily on what one consumes. Certain foods, such as milk, soya beans, walnuts, salmon, broccoli, and spinach, strengthen one’s bones and joints. On the flip side, certain foods are terrible for the bones, making them brittle, porous, and vulnerable to damage. Some of the worst foods for the bones are listed here. Salt As much as salt benefits one’s health as a stabilizer and an antibacterial agent, excessive salt consumption saps the calcium from one’s bones over time. For instance, nutritionists believe that one loses approximately 40 milligrams of calcium for every 2,300 milligrams of sodium consumed. Sodium is one of the worst elements possible in this regard. Hence any foods containing it will be detrimental to one’s bone health. Excessive salt is usually found in canned vegetables, frozen meals, canned soup, store-bought baked goods, and other processed and over-packaged edibles. To counter such an excessive intake of salt, one can avoid processed food entirely, consume home-cooked meals, and control their salt content. Coffee Like sodium, caffeine also takes out calcium from all the bones in the body, making them brittle. As per certain research studies, people tend to lose 6 milligrams of calcium from their bones and teeth for every 100 milligrams of caffeine consumed. Coffee contains loads of caffeine, which makes it an avoidable food to keep the bones healthy. If one cannot avoid it entirely, one needs to consume it less frequently or try alternatives such as decaf coffees and tea instead. Cakes/pastries Like caffeine, sugar also harms one’s bones. People who consume too many sugary items such as cakes and pastries may not consume other nutrient-rich food. Instead of such foods, one can consume delicacies such as cranberries, prunes, and other antioxidant-rich items.