Although unpleasant, nasal congestion is a common, and perhaps the most pervasive, allergy symptom for millions of people worldwide. It is also a common symptom indicating a cold or flu. Congestion can interrupt daily routine, so one can try management options to relieve this symptom and breathe better. Here, anti-inflammatory foods may help reduce the discomfort. So here are six foods that help fight nasal congestion, prevent excess mucus buildup, and relieve a stuffy nose: Tea Breathing in the steam from hot liquids like tea or broth can help make mucus thinner and relieve congestion. Additionally, green tea is also known for its anti-inflammatory compounds called polyphenols, which can help with swollen sinuses. Honey According to preliminary studies, honey can help soothe a sore throat. It may also help fight upper respiratory tract infections. Honey is generally safe to eat for people over the age of 1. One can add it to tea, use it as a salad dressing, or just eat a spoonful to relieve inflammation. Citrus fruits Vitamin-C-rich fruits such as limes, lemons, grapefruit, and oranges help boost immunity. They also have antioxidant properties, which can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with nasal congestion. The combination of vitamin C and antioxidants can help thin mucus and reduce allergy-related congestion. Pineapple Pineapple is loaded with vitamin C and bromelain. While vitamin C helps fortify the immune system, bromelain may help break down the mucus buildup in the sinuses and reduce allergy-induced excessive mucus production. The fruit can be juiced, grilled, added to a salad, or eaten as it is. Ginger Root ginger is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can easily be added to salads and roast dishes for a healthy yet delicious meal. Alternatively, one can also boil some fresh ginger in water to make hot ginger tea to reduce nasal congestion.

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.

Our food moves to our digestive system through the esophagus, a long, hollow tube that starts from the throat and ends in the stomach. But when tumors start growing long anywhere along the esophagus, specifically over the cells that line the insides, that’s when esophageal cancer occurs. Its symptoms usually start showing up at later stages. However, certain signs of esophageal cancer can help in early diagnosis. Some of them are: Difficulty while swallowing Difficult swallowing of food and liquids is one of the most prominent signs of esophageal cancer. As the cancerous cells grow slowly, a person finds it difficult to swallow food. The experience is similar to having food stuck in the chest or the throat. In some cases, it may even cause choking. This usually begins as a mild symptom and worsens over time as the lining of the esophagus narrows. Acute pain in the chest In some cases, esophageal cancer may trigger discomfort or pain in the chest. The sudden flare-up of pain usually occurs in the central part of the chest. Sometimes, the pain may be accompanied by a burning sensation or may feel like pressure building up. This type of sign is often reported as a symptom of other health problems, such as heartburn. So it is necessary to observe how often and when this symptom occurs and consult a healthcare expert. Dark-colored stool The cancerous cells inside grow into tumors, making the esophagus narrower. In such a case, certain foods may have an abrasive effect and lead to bleeding in the esophagus. In such cases, the blood and food pass through the digestive system, where the former will also show up in the stool. As a result, a person with esophageal cancer may have a dark-colored stool or observe blood in their stool.

Cold sores are a problematic symptom of the Herpes Simplex Virus that can derail your plans. They often appear when you are already under the weather, making them even more challenging to eliminate. Furthermore, they are not as quick to leave as they are to arrive. They linger around for longer and might feed off some healthy food you eat to boost your immunity. Here are some foods to avoid while dealing with cold sores. Chocolate Chocolate has often been touted for all the health benefits it brings. It is also loaded with antioxidants; the darker the chocolate, the higher its protein and fiber content will be. But chocolate is best avoided for people with cold sores because of its high arginine content. For people who prefer hot chocolate in the winter, switching to alternatives like cappuccino will help save some discomfort. Pickles Foods with high salt content, like pickles, are another no-no for people with cold sores. Not only does high sodium content further irritate the skin it also interferes with macrophage activation. Since macrophages are essential to bringing down the inflammatory markers in the body, eating foods like pickles can prove counter-productive to cold sores treatments. Oranges Stress is one of the most common reasons behind cold sores, as it impairs the immune system’s functioning. One of the most effective ways to strengthen the immune system is by adding vitamin C-rich foods and supplements to daily meals. However, when people with cold sores eat acidic foods like oranges, it interferes with the healing process and prevents scabs from forming over cold sores. Oranges, one of the most accessible and effective ways of adding vitamin C to the daily meal plan, must be avoided owing to their acidic nature. Instead, one can choose non-citrus sources of vitamin C, like bell peppers.

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.

Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and affects the production of healthy blood cells. It typically affects the plasma, the largest part of the blood, and its ability to develop antibodies. While there is no cure for this cancer, it can be managed by making certain changes in lifestyle. For instance, exercising, having medications, and eating and avoiding certain foods can help keep the disease under control. Freshly cooked vegetables Darks greens and starchy vegetables are rich sources of vitamins and minerals that help boost immunity. Those who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma are also at risk of developing anemia. Doctors advise including more iron-rich foods to reduce the risk of low red blood cell count. One can add broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts, and bell peppers to their means, as they are rich in iron. Additionally, carrots and artichokes are rich in fiber. Fiber boosts digestion and reduces the risk of constipation, a common symptom observed during chemotherapy treatment. Fresh fruits Fruits, rich in antioxidants, can counter oxidative stress and boost immunity. Blueberries, raspberries, cherries, cranberries, strawberries, and blackberries are cancer-fighting fruits that help combat the damage done to healthy cells. Also, certain tropical fruits like mango, guava, papaya, and pineapple are recommended to those with this type of cancer. This is because they are rich in iron, which helps manage conditions like multiple myeloma. Meat and dairy Lean cuts of meat and low-fat dairy are acceptable foods to eat for multiple myeloma. Note that meat should be cooked thoroughly, and it is best to use low flame cooking techniques instead of grilling, pressure cooking, and charring. Foods to avoid Raw vegetables It is essential to avoid having raw vegetables, as eating them is not healthy for those with multiple myeloma.

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.

Most individuals, especially those with a sweet tooth, find it hard to avoid sugary foods from their daily meal plan because sugar is an integral part of various food items. However, excessive intake of sugar is associated with many health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and even cholesterol. Some easy and effective strategies to reduce sugar intake and its direct impact on one’s cholesterol levels are listed below. Types of cholesterol There are two types of cholesterol- LDL (low-density lipoprotein), otherwise known as bad cholesterol HDL (high-density lipoprotein), otherwise known as good cholesterol LDL causes plaque buildup in one’s arteries, creates blockages, hampers blood flow, and raises the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Meanwhile, HDL helps the body to get rid of bad cholesterol. HDL carries LDL to the liver, where it is eventually eliminated from the body. Effects of sugar on cholesterol levels Healthcare professionals recommend exercising and reducing the intake of saturated fats for individuals with high cholesterol. However, unbeknownst to many, sugar is another hidden contributing factor to cholesterol. Some studies have shown that people who consumed more than half a cup of sugar daily had low HDL levels in the body. Similarly, people who got 10% of their calories from added sugar were thrice as likely to have low HDL cholesterol levels compared to those who had half as much sugar. Excessive sugar intake also results in one’s liver creating more LDL. It converts and stores the excess sugar into a fatty substance called triglycerides, which have similar effects on the body as LDL cholesterol. Simple ways to manage sugar intake Read food labels – Industries use various names for added sugar on store-bought, packaged, and processed foods. A few such names are molasses, corn syrup, fructose, rice syrup, agave nectar, cane juice, cane syrup, honey, and sucrose.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which people experience the weakening of bones. It causes the bones to turn porous and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. An estimated 54 million people have this health condition. Although the condition is prevalent in both men and women, factors like menopause make women more susceptible. Read on to learn more about some management options that can help ease symptoms of osteoporosis and its treatment: Treatment EVENITY® EVENITY® is a commonly prescribed option for postmenopausal osteoporosis patients. It helps lower the risk of fractures by reducing bone loss and simultaneously increasing the formation of new bone. The recommended dosage is one shot every fifteen days to observe significant results. Prolia® Prolia®, a denosumab-containing injection, is used as a treatment option for osteoporosis. It is used to prevent frequent fractures in patients with low bone density. It works by improving the patient’s bone mass and slows down the bone degeneration process. Prolia® is available in pre-filled syringes of 1 ml dosage, which can be used once every six months. Foods to eat and avoid People with osteoporosis are advised to increase the intake of calcium and vitamin D-rich foods in their daily meals. This plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of their treatment. Additionally, foods provide the body with the necessary nutrients to fight the disease. Some foods to be added to regular meals are nuts and seeds, dairy products, vegetables, and lean protein sources. Similarly, wrong food choices can worsen the condition. To avoid any complications, people with osteoporosis are advised to decrease the intake of foods like refined carbohydrates and sugars, desserts, and salty snacks. Regular exercise Exercise is a crucial part of the routine, irrespective of the patient’s age. Regular activity helps keep the bones active and healthy. Physical therapists and health care professionals recommend low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and running.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease caused by the immune system attacking the joints in the body resulting in swelling, pain, and inflammation. This illness can affect people of all age groups. The exact cause is still unknown, and there is no permanent cure for the condition. However, early treatment and lifestyle changes can relieve the symptoms and discomfort associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Important changes include adding certain foods that help combat inflammation.  Best foods to manage symptoms Although several treatment options can help relieve the associated symptoms, adding certain foods to one’s daily meals may also ease the discomfort. Some of these foods are:  Beans This food is packed with fiber, which can help lower the level of C-reactive protein (CRP), leading to less inflammation. Beans are also a rich source of magnesium, protein, folic acid, zinc, and potassium. So it is advised to regularly consume kidney, red, and pinto beans to fight inflammation and boost immunity.  Cherries Cherries contain anthocyanins—a chemical that is a potent antioxidant and helps manage inflammation. In addition, the fruit also helps in fighting against cell damage to make the bones and joints get stronger. So, people with the condition should opt for freshly picked cherries every day to help build strength and reduce the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.  Carrots Carrots and other orange-colored vegetables are rich sources of beta-carotene and vitamin A, which help the body fight against inflammation. These vegetables can be cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces. Fish Omega 3 fatty acids, often found in fish like tuna and salmon, are extremely beneficial for the health of rheumatoid arthritis patients. They help fight inflammation and decrease the discomfort caused by symptoms like morning stiffness and aching joints. However, one should ensure that the fish is not overcooked. One can bake or grill it twice a week.  In addition to the above-mentioned foods, one should consult a healthcare expert for treatment options that can help slow the disease’s progression.

From cleaning supplies to food storage containers, did you know that many daily-use household items have been linked with cancer? However, it can be challenging to avoid these products, making it essential to consider the compounds they comprise, know the potential risk factors, and steps to be taken for safety. To begin with, it is vital to acquaint yourself with this list of household items that have been linked with cancer to avoid adverse effects. Cleaning products Benzene and formaldehyde are common compounds in cleaning products and these have also often been linked with cancer. They can be present in household items like disinfectants, bleach, and air fresheners. Pesticides Pesticides are commonly used in gardens and on houseplants to control the activity of pests. However, pesticides contain chemicals like glyphosate. It is important to either use natural alternatives or use these chemicals with caution to avoid the harmful effects of this carcinogenic compound. Canned foods Bisphenol-A or BPA is a commonly found chemical in canned goods. This compound that lines most canned foods is associated with cancer. It is advised that people choose frozen or fresh produce instead of canned ones. If that is not possible, look for canned foods with a BPA-free label on them. These are considered safer alternatives to cans that might increase cancer risk. Plastic containers Like canned foods, most plastic containers also contain BPA in them. They can release harmful chemicals when exposed to high temperatures on heating or after being exposed to sunlight. It is best to use stainless steel or glass containers to store food as much as possible. Non-stick cookware Perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, is a primary compound found in the coating present on non-stick cookware. This has often been linked to cancer. It is therefore recommended to stick with safer cooking utensils like stainless steel or cast iron that are free of such carcinogenic compounds.

Before leaving for a long flight, one should have a good meal, especially if not a fan of plane meals. However, instead of fast foods, one should choose nutrient-rich foods that do not cause any uneasiness while in the air. Further, avoiding certain foods can help keep health concerns and discomfort at bay, including gas in the stomach triggered by the low air pressure in the cabin, nausea, and bloating. Foods to avoid Brocolli Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower offer various health benefits; however, these veggies can also make one feel gassy. Moreover, research by the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders suggests that these green vegetables are packed with fiber and gas-forming sugar known as raffinose, which can cause discomfort during air travel. Apples Fresh fruits such as apples are considered to be extremely nutritious and healthy. However, apples are rich in insoluble fiber, which can make them difficult to digest. This can lead to discomfort in the form of gas and bloating. So, one should avoid the fruit before flying and should choose alternatives such as oranges and bananas to ease the digestion process. Chips Chips are rich in salt content, making them one of the top foods to avoid before flying. Store-bought chips also contain preservatives, which can make one extremely dehydrated and cause bloating. In addition to the above, as the airplane cabin pressure falls, gas begins to expand, which can result in increased discomfort in the gastrointestinal region. So, one can opt for healthy snacks such as unsalted nuts that contain magnesium to counter bloating. Coffee Caffeinated beverages can cause dehydration in the body. Further, caffeine works as a stimulant that interferes with the sleep schedule. This can keep one from catching up on much-needed rest while traveling. So, one can choose alternatives such as protein bars to help stay energized during layovers.