Best and worst foods for managing scoliosis

Best and worst foods for managing scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine in the coronal or frontal plane. It is generally diagnosed during adolescence and may lead to pain in the lower back, back stiffness, pain or numbness in the legs due to pinched nerves, or fatigue due to muscle strain. Treatment for this condition involves the use of braces, spinal fusion surgery, or spine and rib-based growing operations. Further, healthy food choices are an important part of recovery. Best foods Here are three foods to eat when undergoing scoliosis recovery to improve health and wellness: Fresh fruits and vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables are a rich source of nutrients as well as fiber, which are important for maintaining one’s overall health. Fresh produce like broccoli, apples, tomatoes, avocados, cauliflower, carrots, kale, Brussels sprouts, pears, peaches, celery, and green beans can be beneficial during recovery. Unprocessed meats: Organic meats, such as chicken, turkey, fish, and beef, are a great way of providing proteins to the body. However, one should steer clear of processed meats, as they may have unhealthy additives and preservatives. Foods with vitamin D and calcium: Calcium and vitamin D are crucial for maintaining bone health and must be added to meals in healthy doses. Calcium can be found in beans, lentils, poppy seeds, chia seeds, and celery, while vitamin D may be obtained from fish, eggs, or mushrooms. Those undergoing scoliosis treatment must also remember to stay hydrated, as water contributes to the body’s natural functioning. Worst foods At the same time, some foods may impede recovery during scoliosis and must be avoided. These include: Soda: Sugary drinks such as soda inhibit the body’s ability to absorb calcium and can interfere with recovery when dealing with scoliosis. Fast food: Fast foods generally contain high amounts of salt, which can make one lose calcium through urine.
5 smoothies to help curb arthritis and joint pain

5 smoothies to help curb arthritis and joint pain

The pain caused by arthritis is often agonizing. It is a broader term for joint pain or joint diseases, and its effects can be disabling and prevent one from indulging in regular activities. Eating certain foods may also help one tackle the symptoms of arthritis. However, constantly having limited meals can be tiresome. Therefore, here are six healthy and delicious smoothie ideas to help one manage arthritis and joint pain. Pineapple anti-inflammatory smoothie Pineapple juice is rich in enzymes like bromelain that can reduce pain caused by arthritis. You can make a delicious smoothie by mixing other ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, like romaine lettuce, cilantro, and ginger, to create a healthy smoothie. Add water occasionally until the blend reaches a consistency of your liking. Blueberry kale smoothie Berries like blueberries are known for their rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Blend three-quarters of the food with a cup of kale, bananas, two pitted dates, and half a tablespoon of almond butter, and top it with low-fat milk. This combination may help fight the effects of arthritis pains. One can also try making a smoothie with other berries, including blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries, as they have similar properties that may help curb arthritis inflammation. Vanilla matcha protein smoothie Matcha is a powdered green tea leaf rich in antioxidants known to reduce inflammation and curb cartilage breakdown. To make the smoothie, you will need a scoop of vanilla powder, half a teaspoon of honey, fresh vanilla bean, two teaspoons of matcha green tea powder, and a cup of low-fat milk or almond milk. Combine these properties in a blender, and you’ve got yourself a healthy smoothie for joint pain. Broccoli smoothie Eating vegetables like broccoli could introduce multiple antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties essential to tackle arthritis. It is also easy to make as you only need a handful of broccoli, kale, half a cucumber, and a thumb-sized piece of ginger.
4 smoothies to keep common cold and flu at bay

4 smoothies to keep common cold and flu at bay

Smoothies are so much more than just refreshment drinks, with their long list of health benefits almost always overlooked. One can concoct delicious smoothies for uses as varied as keeping the immune system healthy or strengthening one’s bones. In the cold and flu season, certain smoothies can help prevent the onset if consumed regularly. And the best part? The smoothies listed here are incredibly easy to make with daily groceries. Green tea and pineapple smoothie The first anti-flu smoothie combines an unlikely pair of green tea and pineapple to optimize the consumer’s health during the winter when most people are down with a cold or fever. To make this, one has to blend two cups of freshly-cut peeled pineapple slices, a tablespoon of honey, a cup of crushed ice, a cup of green tea made using loose leaves, and a finely chopped half ginger. One can serve this smoothie after decorating it with several different garnish combinations. Cold buster green smoothie As its name suggests, this smoothie contains loads of leafy green vegetables. To make this drink, one needs to blend 2 cups of spinach, three baby carrots, a banana, half an orange after peeling it, a cup of orange juice, half an apple slice, half a cup of ice, and half a cup of frozen pineapple. This smoothie can provide consumers with an adequate amount of essential vitamins for strength and energy. Green smoothie flu fighter To increase energy levels and keep the immune system in top health, one can make this nicely-named flu-fighter smoothie. To make this, one needs to use a powerful blender to concoct a mix of two peeled oranges, a ripe banana, an inch of a peeled ginger root, a dash of peeled lime, half a cup of parsley, a cup of spinach, half a slice of bell pepper, and water.
6 healthy snacks to lower cholesterol levels

6 healthy snacks to lower cholesterol levels

If one has high cholesterol levels, they may have to monitor their meal plans. Neglecting what they eat may have adverse effects on their health and increase the risk of stroke and heart disease. While certain foods can help reduce cholesterol levels, eating the same thing regularly could get boring. So, here are six healthy snack ideas to diversify meals and control the levels of cholesterol – the waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver. Almonds These nuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, which may fight against the effects of high cholesterol levels in the blood. It is suggested to have about one-quarter cup of almonds throughout the day. Other healthy sources of nuts to add to meals include walnut halves and hazelnuts. Popcorn The snack choice that most people enjoy during a movie is also beneficial for those with high cholesterol. The fiber content of the food contributes to lowering the waxy buildup in the blood. However, one should avoid adding flavors like butter and salt to popcorn as these may worsen cholesterol levels. Greek yogurt dip The snack is higher in proteins when compared to plain yogurt and is also low in sugar. So, Greek yogurt dip could make a suitable addition to heart-healthy foods. One could dip foods like sliced carrots or even enjoy Greek yogurt with unsalted pretzels and whole-grain crackers, which will help lower unhealthy cholesterol. Oatmeal Adding oatmeal to breakfast or other meals throughout the day is beneficial for one’s overall health. The snack is rich in soluble fiber, which may absorb cholesterol as it moves through the digestive system. Moreover, the healthy fibers in oatmeal may help increase the bile produced by the liver, which may also help reduce LDL or bad cholesterol levels. Apple slices Apples are rich in pectin, a type of fiber known to lower unhealthy cholesterol levels.
4 vitamins and minerals to boost metabolism

4 vitamins and minerals to boost metabolism

Metabolism is the chemical process by which food is converted into energy. There are multiple chemical processes involved in metabolism. Certain minerals and vitamins can boost this process. Also, what one consumes greatly influences the speed and quality of their metabolism. Therefore, consuming foods rich in certain minerals and vitamins can seriously increase one’s energy throughout the day. Here are some of the vitamins and minerals that boost one’s metabolism: 1. B vitamins This family of vitamins is critical for energy metabolism in the body. Essentially, if one does not consume these vitamins, they may have digestive issues. The various B vitamins are B-12, biotin, folate, B-6, pantothenic acid, or B-5, niacin, or B-3, riboflavin, or B-2, and thiamine, or B-1. Out of these vitamins, B-12 is responsible for the metabolism of fats and proteins. Vitamins B-6 and folate help facilitate this process. Thiamine enables metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, while B-6 helps metabolize some key proteins. Vitamin B-rich foods include whole grains, dairy products, eggs, lean meats, seafood, nuts, seeds, spinach, potatoes, squash, bananas, apples, grapes, and watermelons. 2. Vitamin C Vitamin C is used up by the body when a person is stressed. At the same time, the body releases a lot of cortisol when a person is stressed. Cortisol tends to put a person’s body into fight or flight mode and pauses several bodily functions. Effectively, a lack of vitamin C can result in stress and greater percentages of cortisol in a person’s bloodstream. To address stress and prevent the body’s metabolism from grinding to a halt, one needs to consume more vitamin C daily. Oranges and fresh or frozen berries are rich in vitamin C. 3. Iron This chemical is essential for revving up an individual’s metabolism. Iron is responsible for transporting blood and oxygen to various body parts.
Tips, home remedies, and foods to manage dry eyes

Tips, home remedies, and foods to manage dry eyes

Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by the tear glands not producing adequate fluid to keep the eyes lubricated. This condition can lead to symptoms such as scratchy eyes, eye fatigue, heavy eyelids, pain, light sensitivity, and even blurred vision. These can disrupt one’s daily schedule and be very painful, causing further distress. This article shares some home remedies that one can try to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes. 5 Tips and Home Remedies to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome Use warm compresses Warm compresses basically stimulate the tear glands to promote the production of tears. This can be a regular practice and can provide great relief when done every day. Have a good night’s sleep Lack of sleep can instigate dry eyes and eye fatigue in people who would not have the condition otherwise. It is recommended to take short breaks between screen time and get some shut-eye. Use a humidifier People who reside in a region that is dominated by dry and cold weather must invest in a humidifier for it retains the moisture in the air and helps relieve the discomfort caused by the dry weather. Stay hydrated An adequate intake of water is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for patients with dry eye syndrome. Having enough water can further help to keep the eyes lubricated, which helps in soothing the dry eye symptoms. Use eye drops or ointments Any over-the-counter eye drops available can help soothe the dry eye syndrome and provide temporary relief. You can also opt for eye drops that induce artificial tears to lubricate the eyes; however, remember to buy the ones without preservatives. Foods to Have for Dry Eye Syndrome Foods that are a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids significantly help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes when eaten over a period of time.
5 ways to keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny

5 ways to keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny

Every pet parent wants their four-legged companion to have a lustrous coat of fur. Having a shiny coat isn’t just about looking pretty, the shein is a reflection of your dog’s good health. You don’t need to splurge on pet-friendly creams and lotions or put in a lot of time grooming your pet. Just following these simple tips can help ensure that your dog’s skin and coat are in the finest condition. Regular baths and brushing Giving you dog a bathing once or twice a month is enough. But keep in mind that using organic pet shampoos with natural ingredients is ideal. Additionally, brushing your dog every few days helps spread natural oils on their skin, producing a glossy and healthy coat. Feeding meals rich in fatty acids Omega-3s and 6s play crucial roles in maintaining a dog’s coat condition as well as overall health. Omega-6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and lustrous coat while omega-3s fight inflammation and improve mood.  Coconut oil massages  Coconut oil is incredibly beneficial for the skin. Applying and massaging your dog’s skin with this oil will instantly moisturize their skin and make their coat shiny. Adding a few drops of coconut oil to your pet shampoo will give better results. Oatmeal baths Oatmeal is full of skin-friendly nutrients. If your dog’s skin is dry and prone to allergic reactions, they’ll likely benefit from an oatmeal bath. Oatmeal also helps make the fur soft and maintains its glow. Safeguarding against parasites Fleas and ticks can irritate your dog’s skin and make them uncontrollably scratch and bite, leading to hair loss and skin damage. Several home remedies can help keep these pests at bay, such as feeding garlic, applying lemon spray or apple cider vinegar, and wearing an essential oil flea collar. If natural methods don’t help, consider these products to prevent flea and tick infestation in dogs.
4 ways to manage hemophilia and its symptoms

4 ways to manage hemophilia and its symptoms

Hemophilia is a rare, hereditary bleeding condition in which blood may not clot normally when wounded. People with this illness have prolonged or spontaneous bleeding and bruising after an accident, surgery, or other injuries. Even minimal trauma can cause continuous bleeding in hemophilia patients. It can also result in internal bleeding in joints, muscles, brain, or other organs. This article throws light on the ways to manage hemophilia: Treatment options Recombinant factor VIII (8) concentrate The most effective technique to manage hemophilia is to restore the deficient blood clotting factor, allowing the blood to clot normally. Earlier all factor replacement products were made from human plasma. But in 1992, the FDA approved the recombinant factor VIII (8) concentrate, which is genetically engineered through DNA technology and used to treat hemophilia.  Hemlibra® This may also be used to manage it. It works on replacing the function of factor VIII (8) rather than replacing the said missing clot directly. This treatment product is given to patients through an injection.  Kovaltry® Another treatment option is Kovaltry. It helps in replacing the missing clotting factor in adults and children. Kovaltry ®  reduces the frequency of bleeding episodes and is sometimes given after surgery. Foods to eat Hemophilia patients should fill their plates with fruits and vegetables. Dark and green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, kale, bok choy, and fruits like strawberries, pears, and apples are excellent sources of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Include orange juice, lean red meat, poultry, fortified cereals, raisins, and apricots as they are rich in calcium and iron.  Foods to avoid Avoid oily foods especially deep-fried meats, chips, and junk foods, as they contain saturated fats, which are unhealthy for the body. High sugar items like cookies, pie, soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, and chocolates should also be restricted. Fish oil and vitamin E supplements should not be consumed by hemophilia A patients as they can prevent the clumping of platelets.
3 tips for the management of multiple myeloma

3 tips for the management of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer associated with white blood cells. In this condition, the white blood cells fail to perform their usual function of fighting infections. These unhealthy white blood cells crowd out the healthy cells. Multiple myeloma is a rare type of cancer in the country, with a lifetime risk of 1 out of 132 (0.76 percent). This article highlights some treatment options, food choices, and tips to manage the condition: Treatment options Two major treatment options for multiple myeloma are BCMA therapy and the use of monoclonal antibodies. BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) can be seen in almost all multiple myeloma cells. Many studies indicate that targeting BCMA can significantly help in multiple myeloma treatments. BCMA is a part of signaling pathways that lead to the survival and growth of cancerous plasma cells. Many new BCMA-targeted therapies are being developed, which could help in the treatment of relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma. The use of monoclonal antibodies is another treatment method. Monoclonal antibodies can help in restoring, modifying, or improving the immune system’s attack on unwanted cells, like cancer cells. Some monoclonal antibodies prevent cancer cells from connecting with proteins that promote cell growth. Thus, they can block the growth of cancer cells. Certain other types of monoclonal antibodies are known to directly destruct cancer cells. Food choices Myeloma patients should consume fruits and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, spinach, kale, avocado, lettuce, beetroot, pomegranates, berries, and peaches. These foods are rich in antioxidants that help improve the immune system. One can also consume fiber-rich foods like apples, pears, whole grains, oatmeal, broccoli, carrots, and celery, as they help prevent constipation due to chemotherapy. Multiple myeloma can significantly weaken one’s immune system. It is important to stay away from foods that could make you sick or develop a food-borne infection.
5 common health conditions that can cause muscle pain

5 common health conditions that can cause muscle pain

Muscle pain, also known as myalgia, can affect the entire body or specific regions. Almost everyone experiences such pain at some point in their life. While it can be treated, knowing the cause is essential to develop a treatment plan. The pain could be triggered by various factors, including injury, trauma, and even severe diseases or infections. Read on to learn about the five most common health conditions that may cause muscle pain. Lupus Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain throughout the body. Muscle aches and pains are widespread in people with the condition. It is usually the first symptom that causes people to seek diagnosis and treatment. When lupus and muscle ache exist together, it is called lupus myositis. Patients may experience severe pain and inflammation in their shoulders, upper arms, hips, and thighs. This can make it difficult for them to get up from a chair, climb stairs, or brush their hair. Although muscles do not weaken in lupus, the pain can be intense. Multiple sclerosis This is an autoimmune disease that damages the nerves in the body. Sometimes, it affects the nerves that control muscle movement, causing acute pain. The muscles usually become stiff or weak and trigger painful muscle contractions. This pain usually occurs in the arms and legs, affecting the ability to sit, stand, walk, or move about easily. Myofascial pain syndrome This is a chronic disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system. It can impact either a single muscle or a muscle group. Some people with myofascial pain syndrome experience muscle pain occasionally, while the problem persists for others. The pain appears in specific trigger points in the body that usually develop in the upper back, neck, or shoulder muscles. It gets worse when the affected muscle is stretched or strained.
Interiors and exteriors of 2020 Toyota Tacoma

Interiors and exteriors of 2020 Toyota Tacoma

Fans of off-roading will often see the 2020 Toyota Tacoma as their number one choice and there’s a good reason for this. The mid-size truck can maneuver tight spots and is light enough for a cross-country ride. Also, considering how the 2020 Toyota Tacoma has a lot to offer apart from durability and reliability to adventure enthusiasts, it is no surprise that it has gained popularity over the years. Things to know about the interiors and exteriors of Toyota Tacoma Read on to know more about the plush interiors and rough exteriors that the 2020 Toyota Tacoma offers. Interiors Mid-size trucks are often not considered as luxury cruisers. However, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma has more resemblance to its spartan roots than any other car in the segment. The focus of the truck is on off-roading terrains and thus the rugged feel of the truck. The higher end of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma gets numerous features, and they’re all packed in the interiors. The power-adjustable driver’s seat is now available and an awkward driving position can be easily corrected. Some materials are soft-touch and everything is screwed well in place. This truck is one of the classics, especially when you compare it to competitor trucks from brands like Ford, Jeep, Honda, and Chevrolet. The steering wheel looks exceptional and it boasts of large unlabeled buttons that remind you of an off-brand classic video controller. The switchgear is robust, but lacks sophistication in design. The new infotainment system is exciting, as it comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which adds to the otherwise just-functional multimedia interface. The graphics have not undergone a noticeable upgrade, yet the functionality remains top-notch. Exteriors The exteriors of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma are exactly what you’d expect in a mid-size truck. The Access Cab variant comes with a six-foot bed while the Double Cab can be fitted with a five-foot or six-foot bed.
Important things to know about the 2020 Dodge Ram 1500

Important things to know about the 2020 Dodge Ram 1500

Are you looking for a robust, high performing, and stylish pickup truck? Well, look no further, the 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 fits the bill. This automobile is a veritable beast and can get you from one place to another in no time with incredible mileage and modern safety features. It is ideal for all- men, women, and families. Let’s take a closer look at this pickup truck to know about all that it has to offer. An Overview The best part about the 2020 version of this pickup truck is that there is a diesel engine option available! All other features that you’ve come to expect from this vehicle remain the same, such as maximum tow rating, a functional cabin that is well-equipped; plenty of rear-seat legroom, and comfortable seats. It can accommodate five to six people. It offers a horsepower of 260 to 395, which makes it a roaring beast on the road. It offers a mileage of 15 to 22 mpg in the city, while on the highway it offers a mileage of 21 to 32 mpg. Most of the trims come with a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with a horsepower of 305 and a torque of 269 pound-feet. It also has a towing capacity of 6,250 pounds to 12,750 pounds. This is good for a half-ton truck. In terms of dimensions, this truck is huge, making it a safe ride. Depending on the model you select, it can weigh anywhere between 4,798 pounds to 5,372 pounds. However, the height does not exceed six feet and eight inches, and the length does not go beyond 20 feet and two inches. Interiors The interiors of the 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 are surely enviable. You get two rows of comfortable seats with about three feet of legroom. It is also child-seat-friendly.