Acid reflux is a condition that causes heartburn due to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This is also referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although it is a common condition, it can cause problems such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, a dry cough, foul breath, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain. High-sodium meals, acidic foods, and lack of fiber worsen acid reflux. Here are the best foods to eat to avoid GERD. Best foods to consume to avoid GERD Oatmeal Oatmeal is a high-fiber, whole-grain breakfast cereal. Foods with a lot of fiber can lessen acid reflux. These foods also promote intestinal health and help general digestion by easing constipation. Oatmeal is also linked to the easy digestion of other foods and the absorption of stomach acid. Thus, including oatmeal in your breakfast meal significantly lowers GERD symptoms. Lean meat and seafood Lean meats are simpler to digest and less likely to cause GERD symptoms, such as skinless chicken breast baked or sautéed rather than fried and greasy. Other options for lean meat include turkey, leaner beef, and seafood like fish, prawns, and lobster. Fatty meats are typically higher in cholesterol and can cause heartburn, so leaner meats are a better option for GERD symptoms. Egg whites Egg whites have a high protein content and a low-fat content. It is readily digested and hence lessens GERD symptoms. However, people with GERD should avoid egg yolks as it includes fat, a common risk factor for reflux symptoms. Ginger Ginger has numerous anti-inflammatory properties. It has digestive properties and can be used as a natural GERD treatment. The most common cause of GERD is inflammation of the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. Ginger relieves pain and reduces the possibility of esophageal reflux caused by stomach acid. Therefore, a few slices of ginger can be added to tea or other food preparations to help lessen the symptoms.

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.

Nutrition is important for good health. Unhealthy food can cause damage to one’s metabolism and organs. Furthermore, various studies have suggested that food and its nutritional value significantly affect the health and aging of the skin. So, healthcare experts recommend adding healthy foods to one’s nutrition regime. Read further to know which foods help achieve glowing and blemish-free skin. Top 6 foods for glowing skin A meal plan that focuses on high-quality lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, fiber, and healthy oils is the best for supporting healthy skin. Avocados Fresh fruits such as avocados are packed with healthy fats. These fats greatly benefit the skin. Moreover, avocados are a good source of vitamin E, an important antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative damage. Tomatoes Tomato-based foods like juice and sauce may help clear up acne. Moreover, tomatoes contain a phytochemical known as lycopene, which makes them red. Lycopene boosts collagen strength and fights against the damage caused by UV rays. Ginger This superfood is best known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, multiple studies have shown that ginger has a soothing effect on the skin. So, one can also try ginger facials to achieve glowing skin. Walnuts Walnuts are a rich source of essential fatty acids, which are fats that aren’t produced by the body. This makes walnuts one of the best foods for healthy, glowing skin. Further, they contain zinc, which is required by the skin to function as a barrier. Additionally, the mineral is necessary for wound healing and combating inflammation. Carrots Carrots contain beta-carotene, which naturally helps protect the skin against sunburn. Furthermore, they are rich in vitamin A, which helps restore damaged collagen and also acts as an antioxidant to prevent the overproduction of cells in the skin’s outer layer. Including carrots in one’s daily meals can easily help achieve glowing skin.

Having pearly white teeth and maintaining them is easier said than done. In order to keep them looking good, one must ensure proper oral hygiene. Moreover, maintaining good oral hygiene can aid in avoiding any dental problems and their associated treatment. There are numerous options available that can help one get the perfect smile. While some options are natural, one can also opt for other dental treatment methods to achieve the goal. The perfect smile makes up of healthy teeth and gums. Therefore, if your want to keep your pearly white teeth stain-free, and perfectly aligned, here are four valuable tips that can help you achieve the goal. Brush and floss regularly Following a routine of brushing and flossing regularly may help one maintain oral health at an optimum level. Furthermore, using good quality brushes for brushing will also help get rid of the dirt and sediments on the teeth. Additionally, flossing also prevents bacterial growth or infections in the oral cavity. Hence, experts advise brushing and flossing after every meal to get rid of the food particles stuck between the teeth. Avoid eating many sweets Eating sweets regularly can lead to dental problems such as tooth decay and tooth discoloration. This happens due to the effect of sugary substances. One can combat these issues by avoiding sugary foods such as candies, gummies, and even carbonated drinks. Furthermore, one can also opt for teeth whitening procedures, which are effective on both extrinsic and intrinsic staining. Some whitening treatments include in-office bleaching procedures and the use of products suggested by the dentist. Avoid foods that can stain Caffeinated drinks such as coffee can have adverse effects on the teeth. This includes staining caused due to coffee’s acidic properties, leading to yellow stains on the teeth. In addition, one must also avoid other foods that can possibly stain the teeth, such as red fruits and tea.

Pain is a sensation that everyone has either already experienced or will experience at some point in life. Most pains are harmless and, more often than not, resolve on their own. However, some aches and pains might not go away quickly and would require expert intervention. To be able to identify when the pain is a cause of concern, it is important to learn the body’s cues. Pelvic pain Painful conditions, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can give rise to pelvic pain. Therefore, it is crucial not to ignore severe and persistent pelvic pain, especially when it is accompanied by vaginal bleeding or fever. Neck pain Poor posture, injury, cervical spondylitis, and meningitis are all possible reasons for neck pain. Because of the varying range of severity of these conditions, neck pain is one of the aches and pains that should never be ignored. The condition can get crucial if it is present with headache, fever, or stiffness. Tooth pain Gum disease, cavities, and abscesses can cause tooth pain. If someone experiences persistent tooth pain, it is advisable to seek a dental consult, especially if the pain is in combination with fever, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. Joint pain Joint pain can be a symptom of gout, arthritis, or other inflammatory health conditions. If the persistent joint pain is accompanied by stiffness or swelling, it can be concerning. Chest pain If there had to be one pain that should never be ignored, it would be chest pain. It is often a sign of heart concerns, including a heart attack. If someone experiences chest pain that radiates back into their back, arms, or jaw, it could be a cause of concern. If it is accompanied by nausea or shortness of breath, one must consult a licensed professional at the earliest.

Shortness of breath occurs when the lungs are not able to absorb oxygen to support vital organs and functions that rely on fresh air. It is one of the most commonly observed discomforts of known health complications that affect respiration. The intensity of breathlessness varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the triggers. Here are the most common causes of shortness of breath that can affect young children, men, and women. Existing diseases and disorders Shortness of breath is one of the primary noticeable discomforts triggered by health complications that affect respiration. These could range from a panic attack to pneumonia, and even serious asthma flareups. In addition, seasonal allergies causing inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even chronic respiratory failure can worsen breathlessness. The severity of the symptom will vary depending on the underlying disease. Pollution Exposure to polluted air can also trigger shortness of breath due to the particulate matter irritating the respiratory tract. Carbon monoxide is one of the more dangerous gases that affects breathing and impairs respiratory function. It’s a common pollutant in the atmosphere released during forest fires, volcanic eruptions, and even lightning strikes. Carbon monoxide is also an industrial pollutant that is released due to burning of fossil fuels for powering vehicles and machinery. Increased amounts of carbon monoxide in the air impacts the blood’s ability to transport fresh oxygen. This triggers severe shortness of breath. Lung problems Pleurisy, or inflammation of the membrane surrounding the lungs, can impact the ability to absorb oxygen, causing shortness of breath. An excess buildup of fluid caused by pulmonary edema also leads to impaired respiratory function. In some cases, the lung tissues that absorb fresh oxygen can get damaged due to scarring caused by pulmonary fibrosis. Anemia Anemia is a condition where the body produces less red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs to vital organs and extremities.

Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond just regular brushing and flossing. One may follow several habits without realizing the potential harm they can cause to one’s teeth. From seemingly harmless activities to daily routines, these habits can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Here are some common but often overlooked habits that harm oral health. One must avoid them to extend the longevity of their pearly whites. Poor oral hygiene Neglecting proper oral hygiene practices, such as inconsistent brushing and skipping flossing, can pave the way for plaque buildup. This buildup contributes to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, which can lead to more serious dental issues if left untreated. Using teeth as a tool Using one’s teeth to open bottles, tear packages, or crack nuts might seem convenient, but it’s a recipe for disaster. This habit can cause chips or cracks in one’s teeth or lead to gum bleeding. So it’s advisable to use one’s teeth only for chewing food and not as substitutes for scissors or bottle openers. Nail biting Nail biting affects one’s nails and takes a toll on one’s teeth. This habit exerts pressure on one’s teeth and jaw, potentially causing misalignment and damaging tooth enamel. It’s a habit worth breaking for one’s dental health and manicure. Using a toothbrush with stiff bristles While it may seem like a harder bristle toothbrush can clean one’s teeth more efficiently, it can cause more harm. Stiff bristles can lead to gum recession, enamel erosion, and tooth sensitivity. A soft or medium-bristle toothbrush is usually enough for gentle yet thorough cleaning. Chewing ice Chewing on ice cubes may feel satisfying, but it wreaks havoc on one’s teeth. The force exerted while chewing can lead to chips, cracks, or fractures, leaving one with a dental emergency instead of a refreshing treat.

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.

Eye checkups are incredibly important as they help diagnose common eye-related disorders such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataract in their early stages. Frequent visits to an ophthalmologist can keep eye-related diseases and infections at bay. However, it is normal to have questions before and after an eye exam. Sorting out one’s concerns helps in the preparation and better management of vision health. Here are a few important questions one must ask an ophthalmologist. Important questions to ask the ophthalmologist What tests will I be undergoing today? Typically, an eye test or an eye exam is a test of the patient’s vision. It usually includes the reading out of numbers and alphabets off a chart. However, this chart is often placed at a distance. So, when one struggles to read, the ophthalmologist detects refractive errors and suggests contact lenses or eyeglasses, according to the individual’s preference. But in rare cases, one can also be suggested to undergo further diagnostic tests, especially when risk factors such as high blood pressure and heart disease are involved. What are some easy ways I can care for my eyes? Generally, as a person age, they become more susceptible to eye problems. Hence, one must ask the ophthalmologist how to care for one’s eyes at home. In most cases, the health expert may suggest lifestyle modifications and changes to the meal plan to ensure optimum nutrition. Nutritional changes involve eating healthy foods such as spinach, kale, lemon, grapefruit, and orange. In addition, the healthcare professional may also advise one to wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when stepping outside to avoid the risk of sun damage. Do eye drops have any side effects? Some eye examinations require the pupil to be dilated. In such scenarios, the doctor may suggest using certain eye drops to ensure proper dilation.

The kidneys help filter and remove waste and additional water to make urine. The organ is susceptible to complications that may stem from a range of underlying factors, including excessive sugar intake. However, an obstacle individuals face in this regard is identifying whether a particular symptom results from eating too many sugar-rich foods or another underlying health complication. Therefore, here are five signs of poor kidney health due to excess sugar intake. Sudden loss of pounds There are many reasons one may lose a couple of pounds, including regular exercise, ongoing treatments, and a change in eating habits. However, a sudden reduction might indicate the onset of type 3 diabetes. This may occur due to excess glucose circulating in their body, which is transferred to urine. One may not put on additional pounds even if they eat more to satisfy their hunger. Frequent infections It is normal to contract an infection at some point in life. However, people who ingest too much sugar may suffer from such complications regularly. The inability of the kidneys to filter out excess sugar from the blood could cause the property to mix with urine. And this may lead to frequent urinary tract or yeast infections. Polyuria Polyuria (frequent urination) is one of the first signs of excessive sugar intake. It results in the build-up of sugar in the bloodstream. While the kidneys are responsible for filtering out unwanted glucose, they may not keep up with the excess amount and cause it to leave the body through urine. Therefore, if one eats excess sugar-rich foods, they may experience symptoms like polyuria. Fatigue One of the functions of the body is to break down food into simple sugars (glucose). The cells use insulin generated by the pancreas to absorb the broken-down ingredient and use it to generate energy.

Your body needs some percentage of sugar to generate energy for the cells and organs. So it is okay to have sugar in your meals and snacks in moderation. When you start having excess sugary foods, the body cannot utilize the extra sugar. This leads to several health disorders, including issues related to your digestive system. On that note, here are a few signs of gastrointestinal disorders due to excessive sugar. Bloating and gas Eating too much dessert or other sugar-based foods can make you feel good—but only for a while. However, you will soon feel bloated due to the increased gas production in your intestines. In addition, the sugar prevents the appropriate absorption of water in the intestines, causing you to feel a lot of bloating. The gas and bloating can cause a lot of discomfort. Diarrhea or constipation Consuming excessive sugar can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria in your digestive system. This can cause changes in your bowel movements. Also, there is barely any fiber or fluid in most sugar-based foods, such as pastries, cookies, and cakes. These factors can lead to diarrhea or constipation, affecting your gastrointestinal health. Abdominal pain or cramping You can experience these gastrointestinal signs due to excessive sugar, especially when the foods contain sorbitol and xylitol. These chemicals are added to certain processed foods to give them a sweet flavor. These foods include baked goods, chocolates, frozen desserts, hard candies, sugar-free chewing gum, and snack bars. Although these chemicals are present in certain fruits and vegetables, the artificially processed ingredients can give your stomach pain and cramps when you have them in excess. Acid reflux or heartburn Sugar in itself doesn’t cause heartburn. However, when combined with other triggering ingredients and foods, it can cause an increase in the production of stomach acid.

Sugar has become an integral part of modern lifestyle and eating habits. It is present in most store-bought foods, from packaged snacks, cereals, and baked goods to sauces and energy drinks. While sugar can provide a momentary burst of pleasure to taste buds, excessive consumption can harm one’s dental health. Therefore, recognizing the early signs of these dental issues due to high sugar consumption is crucial for early intervention and optimal oral health. Tooth decay and cavities The bacteria in one’s mouth feed and thrive on the sugar consumed through food and produce acids. These acids erode tooth enamel, leading to the formation of cavities. Tooth sensitivity Sugar-rich foods can lead to enamel erosion, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath. As a result, individuals may experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks. Toothache As cavities progress, they can cause toothaches characterized by sharp or throbbing pain. The pain may worsen when biting down or consuming cold or sugary foods. Tooth discoloration Sugar is a major food source for harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to the formation of plaque and tartar. Over time, these substances can stain the teeth, resulting in a yellowish or brownish appearance. Persistent bad breath Sugar is fuel for bacteria in the mouth, which can produce foul-smelling byproducts and lead to persistent bad breath. This condition, known as halitosis, may indicate dental problems or cavities. Holes in teeth Sugar causes plaque on one’s teeth and disturbs the pH balance in one’s mouth, making it more acidic. This acid erodes tooth enamel and causes visible pits or holes in the affected areas. Gum inflammation and gum disease Those with high sugar levels or diabetes should be more careful since they are more prone to gingivitis or periodontitis. Bacteria thrive when one consumes more sugar, which causes the accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gum line.