9 Home Upgrade Projects That Offer High Returns

Schizophrenia is a disorder in which one can experience changes in their behavior, feelings, and thoughts. The most common form of this condition is paranoid schizophrenia, where one has an altered perception of reality. Additionally, it is a chronic disorder with episodes followed by remission. Fortunately, one can find treatments and self-help strategies to manage the condition. But first, one has to recognize early signs of the condition and seek a prompt diagnosis.

Disorganized speech and thoughts
Some people with schizophrenia may experience issues in communication and concentration. This means when asked a question, one may give a completely unrelated answer. One may also form a sequence of random words that do not make sense. Additionally, schizophrenia can lead to thought disorders in which a thought can be suddenly disrupted, making one remain silent before new thoughts form. People with the condition may have episodes where they keep repeating certain words and sentences. Further, issues with associative thinking can be one of the earliest and most subtle signs of schizophrenia. Here, one can move from one thought to another without getting to the point and experience extremely disjointed thoughts. Although in such circumstances, the thoughts may seem random or disconnected, they are usually connected to each other tangentially or superficially.

Lack of motivation
One of the subtle signs that may indicate schizophrenia include a lack of motivation, also known as avolition. Here, one may observe unwillingness to complete certain tasks. While this can seem harmless, as a result of this symptom, one may find it difficult to take care of their own health or keep a job. For instance, not showing up for scheduled appointments and meetings, ignoring incoming calls and messages, and not dealing with day-to-day family responsibilities can be some of the signs. For such cases, healthcare professionals suggest a combination of treatments, including cognitive and behavioral therapy.

Disorganized behavior
Schizophrenia can disrupt goal-directed activities, making one develop an impaired ability to interact with other people and take care of oneself. Some changes that may indicate disorganized behavior are a lack of impulse and inhibition control, unpredictable emotional responses, and poor daily functioning. The disorder interferes with independent functioning, making one experience difficulty beginning a particular task, even simple ones such as cooking a meal. Further, the condition can make someone’s behavior seem bizarre or lacking purpose. This is one of the early signs that can develop when one is anywhere between 15 to 25 years of age. So, if one notices the development of this symptom, they must consult a doctor.

Lack of emotional expression
Another sign of schizophrenia is a lack of emotional expression, also called a “flat affect”. This is usually characterized by unchanging facial expressions irrespective of the circumstances. So, others may see little to no change in the voice, tone, or pitch while a person with the disorder is speaking. For example, when one feels happy, they may not show joy or even crack a smile. This may make it difficult for them to communicate with others, as the interaction could cause confusion and wrong assumption. One of the best ways to manage the issue is to undergo cognitive behavioral therapy. Here, the therapist can help one develop appropriate reactions to different situations. Additionally, therapy can help one understand ways to express feelings, ask questions, and control their body reactions, like facial expressions and tone of voice.

Extreme suspicion
When dealing with schizophrenia, one can become incredibly suspicious of other people and their motives, often leading to delusions and hallucinations. Some may stay up at night trying to protect themselves from supposed danger, whereas others may have delusions of grandeur, like believing they have certain superpowers. In most cases, this can stir trouble in personal relationships, and when pushed over the edge, one may become upset or violent. So, such behavioral changes in a person with the disorder may lead to a lack of support, which can worsen the condition.

Mood swings
Schizophrenia can lead to mood swings, where feelings of happiness can suddenly turn into sadness. Sometimes, drastic mood changes can involve feeling overwhelmed. Further, one may experience manic episodes that can be characterized by an increase in energy levels and a reduced need for sleep for several days at a time. The moodiness can seem completely out of character or unusual to others.

Social withdrawal
When dealing with depression or anxiety, one can show signs of social withdrawal. This is also a common symptom of schizophrenia. For some, the unwillingness to participate in social activities can be caused by a sense of fear or confusion. For others, a loss of interest in socialization can lead to withdrawal. Typically, this sudden loss of interest can lead to an increased sense of isolation, lack of social and emotional support, and decreased interaction and participation in all kinds of daily activities. In turn, this can make one more prone to depression or anxiety, paving the way for prolonged social withdrawal. Here, one can try to adopt management strategies like getting enough rest and finding adequate emotional support to avoid isolating for long periods. These may seem like tiny steps, but they can significantly help people with the disorder avoid distancing themselves. 

In addition to the above-mentioned subtle signs that may indicate schizophrenia, one can keep an eye out for other symptoms such as oversleeping, making irrational statements or arguments, and an extreme reaction to criticism. If one notices any of these signs, they must consult a healthcare professional at the earliest. Doctors can examine the symptoms, assess changes in thoughts and behavior, and provide a diagnosis. Based on the severity of symptoms and individual preferences, doctors can come up with a treatment plan that helps one manage the condition.

A home warranty provides homeowners with several benefits and coverage that significantly ease the financial and emotional burdens associated with unexpected home repairs or replacements. By selecting the right plan and reputable home warranty provider, homeowners can safeguard their homes, their budgets, and their peace of mind for years to come. Here is everything one needs to know about home warranties, from coverage options, benefits, and reputable companies to consider.

Benefits of a home warranty plan

Financial safety net
Purchasing a home is a significant investment. With a home warranty in place, homeowners get a financial safety net against any repairs or malfunctions. This peace of mind is particularly valuable for first-time homeowners or those with limited knowledge of home maintenance.
Convenience and accessibility
Home warranty providers usually have a network of pre-screened, licensed contractors and technicians who can promptly address repair or replacement requests. Homeowners can easily submit a claim through the warranty company, and a service professional will be dispatched to assess the issue. This convenience saves homeowners the time and effort of finding and vetting service providers themselves. Additionally, home warranty companies often operate 24/7, ensuring assistance is available whenever an emergency arises.
Increased resale value
A home warranty can enhance the resale value of a property. When potential buyers see that a home is protected by a home warranty, it provides an added layer of confidence and assurance. A warranty offers buyers protection against unexpected repairs, making the property more appealing and potentially increasing its market value. It is an attractive selling point that sets a home apart from others on the market, giving sellers an edge in a competitive real estate landscape.

Coverage options
Typical home warranty coverage plans offer protection for one’s home systems as well as appliances, and some additional coverage as per the varying needs of homeowners.

Cover for home systems
Coverage for home systems typically includes essential areas such as electrical systems, ductwork, heating systems, interior plumbing, and water heaters.
Cover for appliances
Appliance coverage includes items such as dishwashers, garage door openers, garbage disposals, air conditioners, ovens, cooktops, and more. One can opt for optional coverage for pool equipment, refrigerators, or spa equipment.
Additional and optional coverage
Additionally, many home warranty providers offer optional coverage for systems and items like well pumps, septic tanks, built-in microwaves, multiple refrigerators, or duplicate appliances.
Comprehensive coverage
Some comprehensive home warranty plans can extend coverage to any other appliances used by homeowners, including ceiling fans, trash compactors, motors and pumps, roof, and even provide services like pest control.

Process to claim a home warranty
Home warranties are typically renewed annually with varying conditions per policy, offering primarily repair discounts. Here are the steps to follow while claiming a home warranty:

Step 1: Review the warranty contract
Most coverages are subject to service call fees and deductibles, which can vary among warranty providers. So it’s important for homeowners to review the terms, conditions, and exclusions in their contracts to understand their financial obligations and claim eligibility.
Step 2: Document the issue
Once the issue in a covered item is identified, one needs to document the repair by taking photos or videos that clearly show the problem. It’s important to have visual evidence to support one’s claim and provide it to the warranty company if requested.
Step 3: Contact warranty provider
One needs to contact one’s home warranty provider to initiate the claims process. Most companies offer multiple avenues to report a claim, including phone, email, or an online claims portal. One may need to provide the necessary details about the issue, including supporting documentation if possible.
Step 4: Schedule an appointment
When a homeowner requests a repair or replacement, a service professional is dispatched to assess the situation. The warranty company typically assign a licensed and vetted service provider from their network to handle the repairs. One may also be allowed to choose a known provider nearby and the company may reimburse the costs later. One needs to coordinate with the assigned professional and schedule an appointment that works for both parties.
Step 5: Pay the fees
If repair costs exceed coverage, individuals are responsible for additional expenses. Most home warranties require homeowners to pay a service call fee, which is a predetermined amount one needs to contribute towards the repair or replacement. One is advised to maintain a record of all communication, invoices, receipts, and documentation related to the claim. This documentation will be helpful for future reference and can serve as proof of the service performed. Additionally, individuals can choose to cancel a home warranty plan after a year or premium payment completion and explore superior alternatives.

Costs of a home warranty plan
The cost of home warranty may vary based on factors like the type of home, its location, and the company chosen. According to Forbes, the annual cost of a home warranty comes up to $600 on average, which can go as low as $275 or over a thousand dollars for more customized plans. It’s best to confirm the cost with a preferred company and compare a few offers before finalizing one.

Companies offering home warranties
Here are some reliable companies that one can consider:

Home Warranty of America
Home Warranty of America offers flexible home warranty plans designed to meet the diverse needs of homeowners. It also offers a money-back guarantee of up to 30 days on its repairs. With coverage for major systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliances, the company provides reliable protection against unexpected breakdowns.

Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard delivers comprehensive coverage plans and covers a broad range of systems and appliances, including heating, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, and kitchen appliances. Liberty Home Guard stands out for its straightforward claims process and commitment to customer satisfaction with up to 90-day workmanship guarantee. They also offer additional coverage for items like pools, spas, and well pumps.

American Home Shield
As one of the pioneers in the home warranty industry, American Home Shield (AHS) has built a solid reputation with their 30-day workmanship guarantee and an extensive network of certified technicians. AHS provides customizable plans that cover about 23 appliances and systems and also additional coverage options for leaky roofs and garage refrigerators.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by excessive levels of blood sugar. It is a severe condition that has to be treated properly to avoid future complications. Making nutritional changes can prove effective to a great extent in managing diabetes. Avoiding certain food items in your daily meal plan can help your body regulate high blood sugar better and stay healthy. Below are some food items that are best avoided for people with diabetes.

How do nutritional habits impact diabetes?
A healthy, balanced meal plan comprising nutrient-rich foods low in sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods helps you manage diabetes better. People with diabetes must focus on eating whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats like olive oil rather than processed snacks or red meats.

Sugar levels in the blood are sourced from carbohydrates taken in by a person. The more carbs eaten, the higher the blood glucose level will be, leading to conditions like diabetes. It necessitates cutting down on certain foods and drinks to keep your sugar in check. However, one must not avoid eating carbs altogether, as they are the body’s primary source of glucose and energy. Instead, eating controlled portions of carbs may help you approach diabetes management healthily.

Foods to avoid to manage diabetes
Here is a list of food items that are best avoided to keep blood sugar levels in check and keep conditions like diabetes at bay.

Dried fruits
While whole fruits can be a nutritious addition to your meal, intake of dried fruits can spike your blood sugar levels. These fruits are dried and processed with sugar content to eliminate the bitter taste. For instance, raisins have three times more carbs when compared to grapes. Even if the package mentions the words “no-sugar-added” or “low-sugar,” it is advised to monitor the portion sizes you eat. For people with diabetes, it is better to stick with low-sugar-containing fruits such as fresh berries and watermelon.

Dairy products
Dairy products provide the body with the necessary vitamins, proteins, and calcium. However, they also contain a naturally-occurring sugar called lactose that spikes blood sugar levels. Full-fat dairy products such as sweetened yogurts are high in saturated fat, which can be hard on your blood sugar level and circulatory system. On the other hand, eating dairy-free alternatives such as coconut milk, nut butter, avocado, soy milk, or almond milk may help a person meet their nutritional needs.

Trans fats
Trans fats are a significant source of calories but lack essential vitamins and minerals. Trans fats are available in peanut butter, creamers, margarine, frozen dinners, packaged and other baked goods, added to extend their shelf period. Even though trans fats don’t affect blood sugar directly, research indicates that they might cause decreased levels of good cholesterol, unhealthy body mass, insulin resistance, and impaired circulatory system functions. As a result, eating trans-fat-containing food may lead to high blood sugar levels. Furthermore, a meal plan rich in trans fats, such as processed pastries and deep-fried foods, can put a person at risk for stroke and heart disease. So switch to healthier alternatives like canola oil and vegetable oils.

Breakfast cereals
While easy-to-prepare cereal like cornflakes or chocolate-filled cereals may be comforting and convenient, many are full of refined carbs and sugars. Combining added sugars with refined carbs will increase the food’s glycemic index, implying that it will cause an uncontrollable spike in blood sugar levels. They are quickly digested, resulting in an increase in glucose levels in the bloodstream. Hence, opt for whole grains like oatmeal or whole wheat toast paired with protein sources like eggs or nuts. These alternatives may provide sustained energy throughout the morning while providing essential nutrients.

Flavored coffee drinks
Research indicates that drinking plain black coffee has certain health benefits, including its significant role in reducing the risk of diabetes. However, flavored coffee is no better than liquid desserts, like milkshakes and custard, with a high concentration of carbs and sweeteners. Thus, it may lead to high blood glucose and unhealthy BMI. Moreover, your brain doesn’t consider flavored coffee a fulfilling nutrient source. It may not change your appetite, increasing your cravings for unhealthy food choices. Hence, it is better to choose espresso or plain unsweetened coffee to prevent high blood sugar levels.

Refined grains
Refined-grain foods may increase your blood sugar levels, including white rice, white bread, white pasta, and other bakery items made from white flour. One should reduce their intake of refined sugars and starches that can lead to high blood sugar by avoiding these heavily processed grains. Opt for nutrient-rich whole grains like barley, quinoa, oats, and millet. Not only are they higher in fiber, but they also take longer for your body to break down. It also reduces the amount of insulin (thus, glucose) needed to process them.

Fruit juices
Although fruit juices seem like a healthy alternative to soda, they often contain added sugars and sweeteners that can cause blood sugar to spike fast. So choose fresh fruits like apples and oranges instead of juices whenever possible. Moreover, the high fiber content of fruits will be lost in the juice form, reducing its impact on better management of sugar and cholesterol levels. Like other artificially sweetened beverages, fruit juices lead to heart ailments, insulin resistance, and unhealthy body mass. Instead of fruit juices, drink plenty of water for hydration and drink lime water as a refreshing dessert to control excessive blood sugar levels.

Eating less-sugary foods is the most effective way of lowering high blood sugar levels. Besides avoiding the food mentioned above, it is essential to maintain a balanced nutritional regime with plenty of fruits and vegetables. A healthy nutritional plan should include nutritious food groups, be low in calories and fat while high in fiber and protein, and effectively prevent or manage diabetes. Moreover, it is advised to monitor your glucose level often and regularly consult a nutritional expert to manage diabetes better.

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) occurs when the usually stable and regular electrical impulses in the heart’s upper chambers (atria) begin firing chaotically, causing them to quiver or twitch (fibrillate). This can cause blood accumulation and clotting in the atria. These clots can reach the lungs through the blood vessels and cause pulmonary embolism or can reach the brain, resulting in a stroke. Let’s look at the forms, signs, and causes of Afib and its treatment options:

Types of atrial fibrillation
Afib can be classified as one or more of these:

First-diagnosed Afib: Regardless of symptoms or the number or length of episodes, this refers to individuals diagnosed for the first time with Afib.

Asymptomatic Afib: This condition is also called silent Afib, given the lack of signs or symptoms. A random electrocardiogram (ECG) could reveal asymptomatic atrial fibrillation.

Paroxysmal Afib: Two or more episodes of the conditions that spontaneously resolve within a week are categorized as paroxysmal Afib.

Persistent Afib: This refers to two or more episodes of atrial fibrillation that last seven days or more.

Long-term persistent Afib: If the condition persists for more than a year, it is referred to as long-term persistent Afib.

Permanent Afib: This is a chronic condition that cannot be managed using common treatment options. So here, the patient and doctor decide to stop treatment to get the heart rate back to normal and begin considering other management options.

Causes and risk factors
Typically, the condition is brought on by coronary artery disease or high blood pressure. Often, atrial fibrillation is triggered by an irregular heartbeat. However, it might occasionally be difficult to determine what triggered such irregularity, and there may be no apparent cause in some cases. In most cases, Afib runs in families, so if one has a family history of the condition, i.e., a close relative has the condition, the likelihood of developing the condition increases. Further, the risk of this kind of rhythm disturbance can be a result of factors like:

Cardiomyopathy
Atherosclerosis—the hardening of the arteries—or coronary artery disease brought on by persistent and uncontrolled high blood pressure
Rheumatic heart disease in children
A heart surgery
Heart diseases
Heart valve dysfunction
Pulmonary embolism
Age
Chronic pulmonary disease and stress on physiological processes

Symptoms
Some people may not experience clear Afib symptoms, while others could experience the following:

Feeling faint or light heart palpitations (a feeling that the heart is beating too hard or skipping a beat)
General weakness that cannot be explained by an apparent cause; a quick heartbeat, or an irregular pulse
Breathlessness, especially when exercising, resulting in inexplicable exhaustion
Finding it more difficult to exercise

Management options
Doctors may recommend one or more of the following methods to treat atrial fibrillation, depending on the severity and type:

1. Prescription options: The initial line of treatment for atrial fibrillation is prescription options. While these may not treat atrial fibrillation, they frequently assist in making the symptoms bearable. This could include:

   Controlling the heart rate : During atrial fibrillation episodes, slowing down or regulating the heart rate can significantly relieve the symptoms. Prescription options are recommended by doctors to regulate heart rate during bouts of atrial fibrillation.

   Stroke prevention : Patients with a high risk of stroke may be prescribed blood thinners, and other prescriptions may be recommended for those at a lower risk. Devices or surgical options that could eliminate the cause of the stroke may also recommend to patients.

   Controlling the heart rhythm : Afib events can be avoided by maintaining the heart’s rhythm in the normal sinus rhythm, i.e., the healthy state. For low-risk patients, prescriptions referred to as antiarrhythmic options can help manage cardiac rhythm.

2. Catheter ablation: Here, the doctors may carefully remove portions of the heart tissue. In this minimally invasive operation, doctors focus on eliminating the source of the faulty electrical signals or rerouting the signals that are causing irregularities in the heartbeat. Typically, thin, flexible wires (catheters) are inserted into a vein to the heart. The wire’s tips have electrodes that transmit radio waves, which produce heat and damage the chosen cardiac tissue to stop the abnormal signals in the heart.
3. Left atrial appendage closure: People with A-fib who are unable to use blood-thinning treatment options can reduce their risk of blood clots and stroke with LARIAT surgery. Here, the doctor threads a catheter with a suture to the heart. The left upper chamber is then closed, and as a result, blood clots cannot leave the chamber and travel to the brain, where they could cause a stroke. The LARIAT procedure is carried out by making tiny punctures in the skin as opposed to standard surgical procedures, thereby enabling quicker recovery and lower risk of problems.

4. Surgical procedures: Some people benefit from surgery, in addition to prescription options and catheter ablation. For those with the conditions listed below, the “traditional” or “cut and sew” MAZE treatment is a surgical option. It is usually recommended when:
   
   Despite other treatments, atrial fibrillation symptoms persist
   One experiences serious symptoms
   One requires surgery for a valve or a coronary artery bypass graft
   One has a heart attack

   The MAZE method places electrical barriers or blocks in the atria, the upper heart chambers, which reroute the aberrant electrical signals from the heart that cause atrial fibrillation and restore regular heart rhythm. A heart-lung bypass machine is used during this open-heart surgery, which is conducted by making a sternotomy incision in the patient’s chest.

5. Pacemaker: A pacemaker may be helpful for persons with certain heart rhythm issues, especially when the heart pumps too slowly. A pacemaker is a tiny, battery-operated device that administers modest electrical impulses to the heart, assisting it in establishing regular, efficient beats. Permanent pacemakers are placed in the chest using local anesthesia and non-invasive surgery. The doctor will make a tiny incision in the wall of the chest just below the collarbone, after which cables (called leads) are inserted into the upper chest and reach the heart.

The immune system makes inflammation a natural response for healing during an infection or injury. The affected area becomes swollen, and blood flow to that area automatically increases. However, the immune system may mistakenly cause inflammation without infection or injury. When such inflammation affects the joints, they become unstable and painful. This condition is called rheumatoid arthritis. This autoimmune disease can be managed with timely diagnosis and treatment options.

Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, impacts each person differently. While in some, it may advance slowly over time, it may progress quickly in others. The symptoms of pain and stiffness may be persistent or flare up occasionally and be dormant for some time. RA causes pain and stiffness in the affected joints, particularly in the morning or after staying in the same position for long durations. It can also cause a lack of appetite, low BMI levels, and fatigue. In some cases, RA can cause inflammation in the chest, causing severe chest pain.

Complications of rheumatoid arthritis
If left untreated for a long time, the disorder can lead to immobility and other serious health issues like:

• Carpel tunnel syndrome
• Inflammation in the heart’s pericardium
• Sjogren’s syndrome – inflammation of the eye
• Inflammation in the lungs causing COPD or pulmonary fibrosis
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Inflammation of the blood vessels
• Cervical myelopathy
• Joint damage
• Rheumatoid nodules

Common mistakes to avoid if you have rheumatoid arthritis

Getting treatment from a general physician
A general physical may be able to diagnose RA, but they may not have the expertise in treating the condition. Rheumatologists are specialists doctors with adequate qualifications, training, and experience in treating RA. They will be updated with the latest development in treatments that can benefit your overall health.

Not learning about RA
Right after diagnosis, one of the first steps for patients and caregivers is understanding the facts about RA. Rheumatoid arthritis is a common disease, and there could be a lot of myths and misinformation doing the rounds. Talk to your rheumatologist or healthcare providers to understand its impact, the treatment, and the prognosis. There will be clarity about the steps you must take and lifestyle changes you can make to slow the progression of RA. You can learn about the new findings and inventions in the treatment of RA and volunteer to participate in clinical trials.

Resting for long periods
Rest is an important part of RA treatment, as you can feel a lot of pain and fatigue. However, too much rest and minimal exercise can increase joint stiffness and BMI levels. Therefore, it is important to start with about 30 minutes of light exercise like walking, Tai Chi, yoga, or stretching and gradually increase the duration and intensity. You can take a break when you have a flare-up.

Not taking treatment as advised
Since RA is a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease, your symptoms may sometimes worsen. Visit your doctor for periodic review and follow-up. They may use blood and urine examinations and X-rays to monitor your condition and adjust dosage and treatment accordingly. Missing treatment can lead to the worsening of RA and its complications.

Not giving up on pro-inflammatory foods
Food triggers can cause a RA flare-up, and avoiding such foods is essential. If you have been diagnosed with RA, avoid the following foods:

• Grilled, fried, and broiled meat
• Food with trans and unsaturated fat
• Sugary foods like candies, cookies, and cakes 
• Food-rich in carbs
• Gluten-rich foods like wheat, kamut, and spelt.
• Flavor enhancers and synthetic additives

Not focusing on emotional wellbeing
RA causes pain and immobility; if the condition is severe, you may need support from friends, family, or caregivers to help you with your daily activities. It is important to share thoughts with family and friends and communicate with your healthcare providers to prevent depression and anxiety from others.

Foods to manage arthritis
Healthy eating is an integral part of RA treatment. Six foods that help to manage RA include:

Fatty fish
Fatty fish generally have darker flesh and are rich in omega-3 and polyunsaturated fats. They help in fighting inflammation and can reduce joint pain and stiffness. Include the following fatty fish in your regular meal plans:

• Sardines
• Mackerel
• Salmon
• Snapper

Fruits and vegetables
Mix RA-friendly fruits and vegetables and create a healthy menu for your everyday meals. Choose the following foods that are rich in antioxidants and help in fighting inflammation:

• Dark green leafy vegetables
• Sweet Potatoes
• Carrots
• Peppers
• Squash
• Onions
• Garlic
• Leeks
• Eggplants
• Tomatoes
• Potatoes
• Berries
• Apples
• Banana
• Oranges

Whole grains
Replace refined grains with whole grains as they are rich sources of fiber and antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Whole grains suited for RA include;

• Oats
• Bulgur
• Barley
• Quinoa
• Amaranth
• Brown rice
• Millets

Probiotics
New studies reveal that there is a link between changes in gut bacteria and RA progression. Increase the intake of probiotics and prebiotics, which can improve gut health. Examples of gut-friendly food include:

• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Miso
• Fermented tofu
• Pickled beets and garlic
• Greek yogurt
• Buttermilk
• Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables

Calcium-rich foods
Calcium-rich foods can keep the joint tissue and nearby bones healthy and help reduce pain and joint stiffness. Some calcium-rich food includes:

• Low-fat milk
• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Green leafy vegetables
• Soya based beverages
• Fortified food
• Almonds
• Sardines
• Pilchards

Iron-rich foods
Iron-rich foods can help fight fatigue, a common outcome of RA. A flare-up can cause anemia and further worsen fatigue. Iron-rich food that can help fight fatigue include:

• Lean meat
• Green leafy vegetables
• Peas
• Beans
• Lentils
• Fortified cereals

Top five smoothies for joint relief
Smoothies are easy to make. Choose from a range of RA-friendly fruits and vegetables and whip up a tasty and healthy smoothie to relieve joint pain.

• Blend a quarter pineapple, ½ mango, one peeled orange, and one carrot with ½ teaspoon of turmeric, ½ teaspoon of ginger, and water.
• Blend two kiwis with 100 grams of kale, one mango, one peeled orange, and water.
• Blend one apple, two celery stalks, ½ pineapple, and a handful of spinach with ½ teaspoon of ginger, one teaspoon of ground turmeric, and one teaspoon of coconut oil.
• Blend ¾ cup blueberries, one cup kale, one banana, 1-2 seedless dates, and ½ spoon nut butter with low-fat almond milk.
• Blend one banana, ½ teaspoon of honey, two teaspoons of matcha green tea powder, one scoop of vanilla protein powder, and one cup of low-fat milk.