The bones work with muscles and joints to hold the body together and support movement. They require continuous nutrition to perform this function efficiently. Ignoring this can weaken a person’s bones and significantly raise the risk of osteoporosis. The best way to improve bone strength and density is to get sufficient nutrients from food. But if that isn’t enough, experts may recommend supplements rich in specific elements like the following: Boron Boron is necessary to build and preserve bones. While one does not require much of it, the element is necessary because it helps the body effectively use calcium. Boron supplements may also support osteoporosis treatment as they activate the vitamins and minerals required for bone formation. Magnesium Magnesium works in combination with calcium to improve bone strength and support overall health. About 60% of the body’s magnesium is stored in the skeletal system, which makes it essential to get enough of this nutrient through meals. If that does not suffice, one could consider magnesium supplements for improved bone density after consulting a healthcare expert. Calcium A large amount of calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, which makes it a vital nutrient. Calcium makes the bones hard and strong. If the body does not get enough from a meal regime, it may pull this mineral from the bones, making them weak and brittle. An expert may recommend calcium supplements to counter this impact and balance the mineral levels. Vitamin K This vitamin comes in two forms: K1 and K2. While both are essential, vitamin K2 may have a more protective effect on one’s bones than vitamin K1. However, a deficiency of either may lead to weak bones. Supplements are ideal for those who do not acquire sufficient vitamin K from foods like leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables. Vitamin D Vitamin D helps the body absorb sufficient calcium in the gut.

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs due to an increased number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the esophagus. It could be a result of genetic factors, food allergies, or health conditions such as asthma and parasitic infections. When left untreated, it can lead to severe complications. This article explores the warning signs of eosinophilic esophagitis to help one recognize them and seek prompt treatment. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) One of the most common signs of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is experiencing difficulty swallowing. It may affect people of all ages and is also known as dysphagia. This condition occurs due to swelling in the esophagus, which disrupts swallowing. As a result, people with EoE often have to drink lots of fluids to help them swallow their food. Moreover, in some cases, the esophagus may become too narrow. This can lead to food getting stuck in the esophagus (impaction), which can be life-threatening. Stunted growth Difficulties in swallowing may lead to nutritional deficiencies in children with EoE. Children with this condition may also become irritable, refusing to eat or drink. This can cause malnutrition and stunted growth, along with other symptoms such as decreased appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, and failure to thrive (FTT). Chest pain Many people with EoE may also experience chest pain and heartburn. This pain is centrally located and may not respond to treatment. As a result, it is often mistaken for a heart attack, making it imperative to receive a proper diagnosis from one’s healthcare provider. Regurgitation Some individuals with EoE may also experience a backflow of undigested food. This can cause nausea, vomiting, or regurgitation. Trouble sleeping In some cases, EoE may cause severe discomfort, making it difficult for one to sleep comfortably. Shortness of breath EoE can cause irritation and swelling in the tissues that line the esophagus.

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects vital bone joints. There are no known causes of the condition, but doctors attribute the risk of psoriatic arthritis to several genetic predispositions, immunity, and environmental triggers. There is no cure for the condition yet, but healthy changes in food and lifestyle combined with certain treatment options can improve quality of life. Here are six foods that can help manage psoriatic arthritis in the long term. Fatty fish Fatty fish such as trout, sardines, mackerel, and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids that possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown people consuming fatty fish showed decreased levels of specific inflammation-related markers, reduced morning stiffness, and joint pain intensity. Fatty fish are also rich in vitamin D, a nutrient that can help prevent symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. According to the AHA (American Heart Association), including a minimum of around two servings of fatty fish in one’s food helps fight against inflammation effectively. Garlic Garlic is loaded with inflammation fighting phytonutrients has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that go a long way in helping reduce the symptoms of arthritis and help strengthen the immune system. In addition, the potent herb can be helpful in lowering the risks of complications linked to psoriatic arthritis. Ginger Apart from the fact that it adds ample flavor to sweets, soups, and teas, ginger has also been shown to help ease the symptoms of different forms of arthritis including psoriatic arthritis. Studies are not conclusive about its potent effect, but ginger has shown to improve pain symptoms among those who consumed it to manage psoriatic arthritis flareups. Ginger and its active components help in blocking the production of substances that increase inflammation in the body. Ginger can be prepared in a dry powdered form of can be added fresh to foods and beverages to boost nutrient intake and manage flareups linked to psoriatic arthritis.

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.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) can cause severe discomfort and hamper day-to-day functioning in their more advanced stages. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are two common IBDs affecting several individuals at different severity levels. Ulcerative colitis (UC) involves inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine’s inner lining, whereas Crohn’s disease is characterized by swelling of the large intestine. Here are some foods patients with UC and Crohn’s disease should avoid, together with some treatment options. Whole grains Whole grains can irritate the gastrointestinal tract among individuals suffering from UC and Crohn’s disease. It helps to avoid consuming whole, unprocessed grains like buckwheat, brown rice, rolled oats, and wild rice varieties. In addition, white rice and instant oats may be more easily digestible. Raspberries A cup of raspberries contains 8 grams of fiber, a no-no for individuals with UC and Crohn’s. Replacing such high-fiber fruits with low-fiber alternatives, such as cantaloupes, watermelons, nectarines, peaches, and fresh fruit juices without pulp, will help. Broccoli Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower contain high levels of insoluble fiber, which is difficult to digest and can aggravate existing digestive problems like UC and Crohn’s disease. It helps to avoid such vegetables and replace them with more easily digestible alternatives like asparagus tips, cucumber, and cooked spinach. Processed meat Processed and red meats are difficult for the body to break down and can worsen UC and Crohn’s symptoms. Therefore, replacing processed meat with lean meat sources like skinless chicken, turkey, and pork chops will help. Beans Beans contain oligosaccharides, fermentable fibers that are not easily digested and contribute to bloating and gas. Therefore beans are best if ignored when diagnosed with UC or Crohn’s disease. Treatment Options Some remedies for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease may be similar, considering both are IBDs. However, a patient’s response to such treatments may vary.

Dementia is a psychological condition involving the progressive loss of cognitive abilities, including memory, reasoning, concentration, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. Many patients with dementia show behavioral changes and mood swings, hallucinate, and get disorientated and irritable. Besides early diagnosis and timely treatment, constant care, family support, and some lifestyle changes can contribute to healing from dementia. Here are some foods that can help individuals prevent and manage dementia symptoms: Spinach Spinach contains high levels of lutein, an antioxidant that helps prevent loss of cognitive functions. Moreover, several studies have drawn associations between the intake of spinach and other leafy greens and the prevention of cognitive decline. Spinach can be added to stir-fries, gravies, soups, smoothies, etc. Fatty fish Fatty fish varieties like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are packed with Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Studies have demonstrated a decline in DHA levels among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, a leading cause of dementia. Thus, a meal plan rich in DHA can help reduce one’s susceptibility to these psychological conditions. A daily intake of 200 mg of DHA is recommended for brain health. Broccoli Being a cruciferous vegetable, broccoli is rich in carotenoids and vitamin B. These components can reduce the levels of homocysteine, an amino acid known to contribute to cognitive decline and related psychological conditions in the body. It also contains compounds called glucosinolates, which are broken down into compounds called isothiocyanates. These compounds are proven to reduce one’s risk for neurodegenerative diseases. Eggs Eggs are rich in choline, found to enhance cognitive function. Furthermore, one egg yolk contains approximately 200 mcg of lutein, another essential component for preventing cognitive decline. Thus, a meal plan rich in protein sources like eggs can protect cognitive health. Avocados Avocados are packed with vitamin B and can help with the reduction of homocysteine, a risk factor for psychological disorders.

Acid reflux is an increasingly common digestive disorder affecting many people worldwide. The condition is characterized by a burning sensation in the throat and chest caused by the backflow of stomach acid. People with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) can have a more challenging time managing acid reflux as it causes inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus. To manage this condition, eating certain healthy foods is advised. Keep reading to learn more about them. Ginger A natural anti-inflammatory food, ginger can also help relieve the inflammation in the esophagus and alleviate acid reflux symptoms. Ginger has also long been used to help with digestive disorders and manage an upset stomach. Adding ginger to daily meals can prevent the acid from backing up into the esophagus and triggering EoE symptoms.  Oatmeal Oatmeal is high in fiber and low in fat content. It is a great breakfast choice for people with acid reflux and helps reduce the amount of acid that finds its way into the esophagus. In addition to that, it also provides a better satiety value and absorbs the excessive quantity of acid present in the stomach.  Bananas Bananas are one of the fruits people with acid reflux can eat without concerns. Its low acid and high fiber content favors acid reflux patients, helping them bring down the symptoms. A decrease in acid reflux and its symptoms also soothes EoE symptoms since it lowers the possibility of stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus.  Leafy vegetables Leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach have low acidic content. They also pack a high fiber content making them a suitable food for people with acid reflux and EoE. The fiber content in these vegetables helps regulate digestion in patients and relieves them of acid reflux symptoms. A low possibility of acid finding its way into the esophagus also helps better manage EoE.

The nails, hair, and skin perform more vital functions than we can imagine. While the nails contribute to sensations and protect the digits, the hair helps regulate the body’s temperature. The skin forms the body’s outermost layer and protects it against harmful substances and injuries. Thus, healthy hair, skin, and nails are essential for overall physical well-being. Here are some foods one should incorporate into one’s meal plan for hair, skin, and nail health: Fatty fish Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, significantly boosting skin, hair, and nail health. They protect the body from sun damage and ensure good scalp health. Eggs Besides being excellent protein sources, eggs are rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, E, and B7, zinc, and biotin. Consequently, they are highly recommended for hair, skin, and nail growth and strength. For example, one can have eggs for breakfast in the form of popular breakfast meals like scrambled eggs, boiled eggs, and omelets. Oatmeal Oatmeal is packed with fiber, zinc, copper, and essential vitamins. Zinc is particularly effective in reducing acne and facilitating strong nails. When eaten with milk, oatmeal can act as a complete breakfast meal and replenish the body with the required protein intake. Almonds Almonds are packed with vitamin B7 or biotin, which is essential for scalp health and steady hair and nail growth. It can also protect the body and hair against damage caused by harmful rays of the sun. Beans Beans, loaded with zinc, biotin, protein, fiber, and iron, are required by the body to fight biotin deficiency and ensure the healthy growth of the hair and nails. They also help enhance skin elasticity and moisture. It is a good idea to include different types of beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, and broad beans, in one’s meal plan.

Dark circles under the eyes are quite common. It can be due to stress, allergies, dehydration, prolonged screen time, and hyperpigmentation. While there are no overnight fixes to get rid of dark circles, making certain lifestyle changes can help to manage the problem in the long term. One of these changes is adding certain foods to one’s meal plans. These foods are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients that promote healthy skin under the eyes and prevent dark circles. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and are a great source of lycopene, which gives them their red color. Lycopene is known for its ability to protect blood vessels from damage, which helps with blood circulation. Additionally, tomatoes contain quercetin, an anti-inflammatory compound that makes them effective in managing dark circles. Cucumbers Cucumbers are often used as a home remedy to reduce eye puffiness. Sliced cucumbers are placed on the eyes to help the skin relax. However, cucumbers can also be eaten for their eye health benefits. They contain a high percentage of water, which helps to deal with the dark pigmentation under the eyes. Additionally, cucumbers have a high concentration of silica that effectively improves collagen production for healthier skin. Berries Blueberries, blackberries, black currants, and other dark berries contain high levels of anthocyanin, a type of antioxidant that gives these berries their blue, purple, and black colors. Additionally, anthocyanin helps to improve blood circulation around the eyes and boosts oxygen levels, preventing dark circles from developing under the eyes. Watermelon With a high percentage of water content and lycopene, watermelons offer the benefits of both tomatoes and cucumbers in preventing the formation of under-eye dark circles. Moreover, this fruit is high in fiber, which promotes a healthy gut and ultimately enhances skin health. Sesame seeds Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on salads, soups, dips, and stir-fries is an excellent way to add them to meals while trying to reduce dark circles.

The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. When one swallows food, it enters the esophagus and is pushed downward by rhythmic contractions of the muscles in the esophageal wall. The normal esophagus cells grow and replace old ones in a regulated and orderly manner. But when esophageal cancer develops, the cells grow and divide uncontrollably and form a tumor. Esophageal cancer is malignant and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of esophageal cancer Difficulty swallowing An alarming early sign of esophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing, the organ’s primary function. This may feel like food is getting stuck in one’s throat or chest, and it can happen even when taking small bites of food or liquid. This symptom can also lead to choking, coughing, or regurgitation of food. Chest pain or discomfort Esophageal cancer can cause chest pain or discomfort, especially when eating or drinking. The pain may feel like a burning sensation in one’s chest or upper abdomen and can be confused with heartburn or indigestion. Unexplained loss of body mass Cancer can affect one’s ability to eat and absorb nutrients. So, if one seems to lose body mass without trying, it could be a sign of esophageal cancer. Hoarseness or chronic cough Esophageal cancer can affect the nerves that control the vocal cords, causing hoarseness or a chronic cough. This symptom is often overlooked, but seeing a doctor is essential if it persists for over a few weeks. Painful swallowing If one experiences pain or discomfort while swallowing, it could be a sign that the tumor has grown large enough to cause physical obstruction in the esophagus. Vomiting or nausea The esophageal blockage due to cancerous cells can lead to a vomiting or nauseous sensation, especially after eating. Conclusion If one is experiencing any of these symptoms, seeing a doctor immediately is essential.

As unassumingly simple as it may seem, there is a wrong way to pee! Making common peeing mistakes can impact bladder health and make one more susceptible to microbial infections, loss of bladder control, or urinary incontinence. That is why it is important to be aware and make certain lifestyle changes to improve one’s health. Here are six of the most common peeing mistakes one should avoid for a healthy bladder: Holding the pee in for too long Sometimes, one may need to hold their pee for too long at concerts or on long drives. However, making it a habit can cause urinary infections. Since urine isn’t sterile, holding it in for too long gives the bacteria a chance to grow and multiply, increasing the chances of infection. It can also cause a lack of bladder control over time. Not fully emptying the bladder when peeing Not fully emptying the bladder can also increase the risk of infections and loss of bladder control. This is also known as urinary retention. Blockages, infections, swelling, and neurological conditions may cause urinary retention and may warrant expert intervention. Increasing intake of caffeine Caffeine is a bladder irritant that increases the urge to pee. It promotes water loss and may cause pain and discomfort. In certain cases, it can also worsen the symptoms of an overactive bladder. The recommended daily caffeine dosage limit for healthy adults is 400 mg or four cups of coffee. Ignoring recurrent UTIs Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract. Recurrent or untreated UTIs can lead to scarring in the bladder or prostate and affect the ability to urinate. Women are at a higher risk of contracting UTIs due to a shorter urethra. Eating vitamin C-rich foods Although vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, too much of it can cause kidney stones.

Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary spasms or contractions in one or more muscles. Although they last only a few seconds or minutes, the accompanying pain can be torturous to bear. The cramps can result from various factors, including poor lifestyle habits many people unknowingly indulge in on a daily basis. Here, we have listed a few common bad habits to avoid as far as possible to prevent painful muscle cramping. Not drinking enough water Not drinking enough water, especially during summer, can be problematic. Heat causes the body to lose a lot of fluid content through perspiration. To make up for that, one should consume at least three to four liters of water daily, if not more. Not doing so can cause dehydration, which reduces a person’s blood volume. A reduced blood volume, in turn, leads to lesser blood, oxygen, and nutrients flowing to the organs and muscles, resulting in muscle cramps. Dehydration primarily causes cramping in the stomach due to the digestive system’s massive fluid requirements. Not consuming enough electrolytes A lack of electrolytes in the body is another major cause of muscle cramping. Certain minerals like magnesium and calcium have electrolytic properties that perform essential functions. For instance, they help maintain electrical neutrality in cells and support muscle and nerve health. An electrolyte imbalance leads to problems like increased nerve excitability and cramping. So, one must not only consume fluids regularly but also foods rich in electrolytes. Exercising too much Over-exercising, or straining oneself in the gym during workout sessions, causes muscle fatigue. This affects how the nerves function and, subsequently, causes muscle contractions and cramping. Therefore, one must not spend too much time exercising. About an hour or two of working out is adequate for most people. Consuming foods full of trans fats Overeating foods with trans fats can increase the frequency of cramping.