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Esophageal cancer – Early symptoms and management

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Tumors arise in the mucosa region of the esophagus, which is the inner lining. Early detection of this cancer can help successfully treat the disease, so observing early signs and symptoms is essential. Also, here are some of the changes in the body to observe, possible treatment options, and prevention tips for the disease.

Trouble swallowing
Also known as dysphagia, this is a prevalent symptom of esophageal cancer, where swallowing becomes a difficult task. It usually feels like food is stuck in the chest, and also, for some people, swallowing becomes impossible, and they start to choke. As the cancer spreads, the esophagus narrows down with time, making it even more difficult to swallow. This also increases the intensity of pain in the esophagus. Those suffering from this condition are asked to switch to smaller meals, eat soft foods, and try to eat less solid foods. Getting the symptoms checked by the doctor immediately is recommended so that early detection of the disease can be done and treatment for the same can be started.

Chronic chest pain
Chronic pain is another common early warning sign of esophageal cancer, like chronic heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This chest pain feels like a burning sensation in the middle of the chest and becomes even more prominent with this type of cancer. Another sign to observe is that some people may experience chest pain right after swallowing the food in a few seconds. This usually happens when the food reaches the tumor site in the esophagus and causes pain. Seeking professional advice on how to manage this is exceptionally crucial.

Change in body mass index
If there is any change in the body mass index without any extra effort, then it may point to an underlying cause or disease. According to research, roughly fifty percent of those diagnosed with esophageal cancer have experienced unexpected and drastic reductions in body fat. This may not be a warning sign if you are putting any voluntary efforts into reduction. However, it indicates an illness otherwise, so a health checkup is essential.

Persistent coughing or hoarseness
A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks can indicate some issues with the esophagus and requires a diagnosis. A change in the voice note, often recognized as hoarseness, remains persistent along with the coughing. It has been studied that this hoarse voice could be due to the tumor’s proximity to the trachea and vocal cords and the voice note changes. If this is not treated in time, it can cause permanent damage to the vocal cords, and the hoarseness may not go away.

Indigestion and regurgitation
Due to the esophagus being infected with cancer cells, it becomes difficult to eat anything. And not just that, even digestion becomes difficult. Regurgitation can cause the food or liquid to flow back into the esophagus, and a sour taste often accompanies this. This is one of the first telltale signs of esophageal cancer.

Prevention tips
There is no way to predict the onset of any disease. However, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing it by leading a healthy lifestyle. This includes living in an environment with no air pollutants, eating the right foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, limiting or eliminating processed foods, maintaining healthy body fat, and doing regular checkups to ensure the symptoms do not get severe.

One of the best ways to reduce the risk of cancer is early detection, so make sure to get annual health checkups, which include entire body scans, blood tests, and other such assessments.

Treatment options
The treatment methods can vary depending on the disease’s severity and from individual to individual. Three different types of treatments include:

Radiation therapy
This includes using X-rays, gamma rays, and other such charged particles that fight cancer in the body. These rays directly target the infected cells to kill them.

Chemotherapy
This involves taking treatment orally or intravenously, which can fight off the cancer cells. Usually, this kind of treatment weakens the body, and some side effects can be challenging to manage if not taken care of mindfully.

Surgery
This is the last stage of treatment, where surgery removes the cancerous tissue that can spread in the body. This is usually chosen as a last resort, and other treatment methods are tried primarily to fight off the disease without any lacerations.

Combined treatments
Apart from these individual treatments, there is a possibility that the healthcare professional may suggest a combined approach to the treatment. This means that they can combine these different therapies and surgery to provide a holistic and successful solution.

  • These combined treatments include neoadjuvant therapy, which combines radiation and chemotherapy. This treatment aims to shrink the tumor cells so that they do not occur before the surgery is performed.
  • Research suggests that chemotherapy and radiation are applied together, which is most likely to halt the spread of cancer that usually starts developing beyond the tumor site. So its spreading is limited, making it comparatively easier to manage and treat further. It is also observed that when this combined therapy is used before the surgery, the patients recover more quickly than when it is performed after the surgery.

It is imperative to stay vigilant about any changes observed in the body. Keep an eye out for unusual symptoms, and always speak to your primary care doctor for an opinion on moving further for specific diagnoses and tests. Also, it is advisable to join support groups with individuals experiencing a similar condition. This will benefit the patient to talk about their fears, concerns, and thoughts, and it could be a safe place to express themselves without any judgment.

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10 best laundry detergents and their features

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free. 

Gain Laundry Detergent
Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household.

Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent
Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes. It has an active scent boost that eliminates the toughest of stains and odors so that your clothes have a fresh feel. This detergent has exceptional performance in all washing machines and provides effective cleaning at all water temperatures. The clean rinse formula and low suds ensure that white clothes stay white and bright clothes stay bright.

Kirkland Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for laundry detergents that are easy on your pocket, then choosing this Kirkland laundry detergent will be the best. The detergent offers a great combination of performance and cost-effectiveness. It has an ultra-clean formulation which enables it to travel deep in the fabrics to eliminate odor and stains. This detergent gives a fresh fragrance to your clothes which most users have found appealing. This liquid detergent is easy to dispense, which reduces the chance of wastage.

Tide Power Pods
Tide Power Pods should be your choice if you are looking for a laundry detergent to achieve heavy-duty cleaning for visible and invisible dirt. The pods are designed with 10 cleaning actives offering deep and hygienic cleaning across all loads. These pods have an innovative laundry capsule technology that enables it to enter the fibers of the clothes so that even hidden dirt is removed. This product works well in any washing machine and all water temperatures. This laundry detergent is available in different pack sizes to cater to distinct needs.

Woolite All Darks laundry detergent
Woolite All Dark is specially crafted to take care of dark-colored clothes among the many available laundry detergents. The liquid detergent has a special formula that is known to eliminate color-fading metal as well as chlorine ions from the water that is being used for washing. This detergent also smoothens the rough fibers, which can make clothes appear old and dull after regular washing. The neutral formula even aids in removing light everyday dirt from across all types of fabrics. This product can even protect delicate clothes as well as dark-colored clothes from the rough effects of washing.

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for plant-based laundry detergents suitable for sensitive skin, then the Free and Clear laundry detergent by Seventh Generation will be great. This powder detergent has a strong quadruple enzyme formula that takes care of tough stains devoid of dyes, fragrances, or artificial brighteners. The detergent also has plant-derived enzymes like Protease and Amylase, which aid in eliminating all kinds of stains from clothes and fabrics. This hypoallergenic detergent has been dermatologically tested and proved to be gentle for sensitive skin.

Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent
Individuals who opt for eco-friendly detergents can try out the Earth Breeze laundry detergent. The fragrance-free product comes designed in liquid-less sheets that provide powerful cleaning. This detergent is simple to use and store. It also has a paraben-free, vegan and cruelty-free, phthalate-free, phosphate-free, and bleach and dye-free formula, which makes it a good choice for the environmentally conscious. The eco sheets dissolve easily in all water temperatures, making them suitable for use across all washing machines.

Noodle & Boo Laundry Detergent
Noodle & Boo laundry detergent will be perfect if you are looking for a laundry detergent specially designed for babies. The liquid detergent has a plant-based formula that gently eliminates all kinds of stains and odors while preserving the softness of the garment. This detergent comes certified by pediatricians for being hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.

Molly Sud’s Laundry Detergent
This laundry detergent powder is a strong and safe option for everyday laundry. The product has 4 stain-fighting organic ingredients that are safe for the environment and your family. It is devoid of artificial fragrance, making it great for sensitive skin. This detergent powder also removes the buildup left on clothes washed in other detergents.

Mrs. Meyer’s Laundry Detergent
If you are looking for a liquid detergent that offers a clean floral fragrance, then choosing Mrs. Meyer’s laundry detergent is a good idea. The detergent is available in fragrances such as lavender, lemon, basil, and more, giving a fresh and delightful smell to your clothes. This product has a plant-based cleaning formula combined with dirt and stain-fighting enzymes so that you get perfectly clean clothes every time. The cruelty-free detergent formula works great with high efficiency as well as standard washing machines.

These are just a few of the many options for laundry detergents that are available in the market. Most of these are available in varying pack sizes that will meet the requirements of most families. It is noticed that people spend billions of dollars every year on laundry detergents. Most people opt for a detergent that smells good, or is perfect for their needs, or the one that is on sale. However, to choose a detergent that is best suitable for you, ask your dermatologist for a recommendation if you have any skin issues.

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Managing AFib – Best foods to consider

Heart-related issues are some of the most concerning health concerns in the country. Of these, a key condition is atrial fibrillation or abnormal heart rhythm. The country sees over 454,000 hospitalizations with atrial fibrillation as the primary diagnosis, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, one can prevent and manage the condition by making lifestyle changes, including healthy eating habits. Here are some heart-healthy foods to help deal with atrial fibrillation:

Causes and symptoms
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is heart arrhythmia or abnormal heart rhythm. The condition usually causes an irregular or fast heartbeat and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Atrial fibrillation is caused by an imbalance between the electrical impulses that control the heartbeat’s rhythm in the left atrium—the top section of the heart. One may have this irregular heartbeat for several months before or after being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The condition develops when the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly and chaotically. An irregular heartbeat can cause severe damage to blood vessels, making them leak fluid. If left untreated, this fluid buildup can lead to organ failure and other serious complications. Here are some of the common causes of AFib:

  • High blood pressure: One’s blood pressure rises when exercising and decreases when fasting. However, one should opt for regular checkups with the doctor if they have abnormal blood pressure fluctuations or high blood pressure (hypertension).
  • Damage following a heart attack or surgery: If one has had a heart attack recently or major surgery on one of the arteries—such as an angioplasty—the risk of developing AFib increases significantly. AFib occurs in 20% to 40% of patients after getting a coronary artery bypass surgery.

Common symptoms of atrial fibrillation are:

  • A fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness
  • Sweating, palpitations (or rapid, pounding heartbeat), and shortness of breath (dyspnea). 

Additionally, people with the condition could also experience chest pain or weakness and shortness of breath when walking up the stairs or participating in a similar physical activity.

Best foods to manage AFib
Protein sources
Chicken and fish are rich in protein and iron. While beef is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B6, it is rich in fats that can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of AFib. So, one should substitute red meat with plant-based protein sources like tofu.

Yogurt
Yogurt is made by fermenting milk. It contains probiotics, which are known to improve digestive health and strengthen the immune system. According to some studies, probiotic-rich food is also good for the skin and hair. Probiotics are live bacteria or yeast cultures naturally occurring in the human gut. When consumed, these bacteria or yeast cultures ferment the lactose (the sugar found in milk) into lactic acid, which creates beneficial acids like butyric acid (fatty acid) and acetic acid (fruity). Probiotics can help one’s gut health and reduce the risk of digestion issues and heart problems.

Fresh fruits and other antioxidant-rich foods
Bananas contain high amounts of potassium and fiber, which help lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease. Fresh fruits are also low in sodium, a component of most foods responsible for increasing the risk of high blood pressure or heart disease. Further, foods like berries, nuts, and green tea have been shown to have favorable effects on the immune system. These foods contain antioxidants essential for the immune system, helping it prevent many diseases. Regular intake of antioxidants can also help significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, as well as fibers that may help improve one’s overall health. Additionally, nuts like walnuts or almonds contain healthy fats that can lower cholesterol levels, while green tea is an excellent source of antioxidants.

Whole grain cereals and legumes
These plant-based foods are a rich source of nutrients beneficial for the heart. Whole grain cereals and legumes contain fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, essential for maintaining heart health and one’s overall health. These foods also contain phytonutrients that may have anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessels.

Fish
Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, effectively reducing the risk of AFib by lowering one’s blood pressure levels. Additionally, fish such as salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3s, so one can add seafood to their daily meals. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower the risk of abnormal heart rhythm in study subjects at risk of developing atrial fibrillation or flutter. The same study also showed that people with heart diseases who had more fish were less likely to develop cardiovascular diseases over time than those who did not eat fish regularly.

Mediterranean food plan
In addition to making changes to daily meals, one can consider following the Mediterranean nutritional regimen. It is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, helping reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The critical components of this food plan are:

  • Fruits (especially berries): Fresh fruits like berries are high in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
  • Lean meats: Red meat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, so it is best avoided if one is dealing with AFib. However, lean meats such as chicken and turkey are great heart-healthy alternatives.
  • Fish: Salmon contains an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to decrease triglyceride levels.
  • Olive oil: This is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which helps reduce inflammation that can lead to blood clots and strokes. Olive oil also contains antioxidants that help improve blood flow and lower harmful cholesterol levels in the blood (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL).

 One can choose from a variety of heart-healthy foods to help maintain heart health and avoid developing an irregular heartbeat. If dealing with AFib, one should consult a doctor or a nutritionist before introducing drastic changes to their meal plans. Discussing food choices with an expert can help one avoid nutritional deficiencies.

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10 Early Warning Signs of Seizure

Seizures can be frightening and disruptive, affecting individuals of all ages. Recognizing the early warning signs of a seizure is crucial for prompt intervention and ensuring the safety and well-being of those experiencing them. While seizures manifest differently from person to person, there are common indicators that can help identify an impending episode. By understanding these signs, one can be better prepared to recognize and assist someone in need, promoting a safer and more supportive environment.

Aura
This is the most common sign of a seizure. An aura usually happens before the seizure occurs. Auras can be experienced in multiple forms, including unusual taste, smell, visual disturbances, or even as a déjà vu. Auras are hard to take note of as they are only present for a few seconds before the seizure occurs. It is often considered to be the first sign of an impending seizure. Therefore, it is important to learn to understand and recognize the aura experienced by the individual, as it can serve as an indicator of an upcoming seizure.

Emotional changes
People who experience seizures may sometimes experience abrupt or sudden changes in their moods or emotions. It is notable in the sudden eruption of anxiousness, agitation, or irritability in the patient for no apparent reason. The changes can range from minor to significant shifts in mood. People may even experience a wave of fear or sadness that is disproportionate to the situation being dealt with. This shift in emotions can often act as an indicator for patients and their families of the upcoming seizure and give them time to prepare for it.

Altered sensations
Some patients have also noted a change in their sensations before a seizure occurs. This alteration in their sensations can occur in the form of a tingling sensation in their body. Or it could be numbness spreading down their limbs. Some patients also complained about feeling weak or heavy. These unusual sensations anywhere in the body serve as a warning to take precautionary measures. It allows patients and their caregivers to try and reduce the risk of an impending seizure.

Unusual tastes and smells
Some types of seizures can lead to olfactory hallucinations in patients. These hallucinations can lead to their perception of unpleasant or strange smells. These smells are also known as phantosmia, or phantom smells and can include olfactory hallucinations of rotting food, chemicals, burning rubber, and more. Some patients also complain about experiencing strange tastes like bitter or metallic taste sensations. The presence of these gustatory sensations might serve as a timely indicator that a seizure is about to take place.

Visual disturbances
Another warning sign of seizure is the presence of visual disturbances in patients. These disturbances can be experienced as distorted or blurry vision, flashes of light, temporary loss of vision, or tunnel vision. If patients often experience these disturbances, they must discuss them with their doctors and take the necessary steps. Patients should be mindful of taking the necessary precautions when they suspect such abnormalities.

Jerky body movements
Certain types of seizures are often characterized by behavior and movements of the body that are not often considered normal. These can be a jerking or repetitive movement of the limbs, lip smacking, aimlessly wandering, or facial twitches. Grand Mal seizures are one of the most common types of epileptic seizures that show the presence of this symptom. These convulsions may last from a few seconds to minutes.

Dizziness or lightheadedness
In some individuals, the feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness can often present as a warning for an oncoming seizure. It can also be accompanied by a loss of balance. The loss of coordination can prove risky or dangerous for the patients. Therefore, the patients must find a safe place for themselves that has a lower risk of potential injuries or mishaps.

Fatigue or sleep disturbance
Studies suggest that poor sleep or disturbance in the sleep schedule can also lead to seizures in patients. Similarly, fatigue also serves as a trigger for the condition. On the other hand, patients might even experience excessive fatigue, disturbed sleep, or difficulty falling asleep as an indicator of an oncoming seizure. It is important to maintain healthy sleeping habits and not tire oneself to avoid any epileptic episodes. Managing fatigue is instrumental in reducing the intensity and frequency of seizures.

Loss of bladder and bowel control
This symptom is more common in children that live with epilepsy as opposed to adults. However, it is still prevalent in grown-ups. Bladder and bowel control loss should be taken seriously in patients with seizures. It can precede an upcoming epileptic episode and might only be early enough to warn the patient of what is to come.

Muscle stiffness
Muscle stiffness is another common warning sign of seizures in patients. It can lead to patients experiencing soreness and rigidity in muscles. It is a common symptom among patients experiencing tonic-clonic seizures, also known as grand mal seizures. This sudden onset of rigidity of muscles might even cause the patients to lose their balance and fall to the ground.

While taking note of the possible warning signs of seizures, it is also important to know which symptom is associated with various types of seizures. At times, patients might be dealing with seizure clusters, also known as acute repetitive seizures. These are diagnosed when the patient suffers from multiple bouts of seizures within 24 hours. Seizure clusters can prove to be more challenging to deal with and treat than isolated seizures.

It is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of seizure clusters in order to seek proper treatment. Patients, at times, might even experience warnings such as increased frequency or intensity of seizures preceding the occurrence of seizure clusters. To be able to treat seizure clusters and get timely attention, it is important that patients and caregivers work in close contact with their healthcare providers. The doctor might want to adjust the patient’s treatment regime, implement rescue protocol, and even ensure a safe environment for the patient.

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Top 8 foods that relieve nasal congestion

If your nose is stuffed up and you have a hard time breathing, the last thing you probably want to think about is food. However, some of the most common remedies for nasal congestion caused due to nasal polyps can be found in the kitchen. Eating specific foods may relieve your symptoms and help reduce inflammation in your airways. Discover the eight best foods you should eat to alleviate nasal congestion and other symptoms.

What does nasal congestion mean?

Nasal polyps (or nasal congestion) are small, non-cancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages. They often appear as soft, painless, teardrop-shaped tissue lumps hanging down and may block the nose completely. Though typically harmless, it is important to be aware of nasal polyps if you have allergies or other chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or cystic fibrosis.

Nasal congestion may cause a runny nose and difficulty breathing. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. The following eight food items may provide natural relief from your nasal congestion – some of which may already be in your kitchen.

Garlic
Garlic contains allicin and ajoene compounds, which have the following benefits:

  • Antiviral properties (the ability of a compound or organism to prevent the growth and spread of viruses)
  • Antibacterial properties (the ability to reduce the growth and reproduction of bacteria)
  • Antifungal properties (the ability to stop the growth and proliferation of fungi such as yeast and mold).

These properties make garlic a great addition to any remedy for nasal polyps. Additionally, garlic may promote expectoration (coughing or spitting out the accumulated mucus from the respiratory tract). This helps expel irritants from the nasal passages.

Following are the homemade ways to consume garlic:

  • Garlic milk
    Add one or two cloves (minced) of garlic to a cup of warm milk and let it sit for 15 minutes. Strain the milk before consuming it warm.
  • Garlic tea
    Another remedy for reducing nasal congestion is garlic tea. Heat two cloves of minced garlic with one cup of water and get it to a boil, then let it simmer for ten minutes. Strain and have it warm while taking in the garlic-induced vapor.

Ginger
Ginger provides antibacterial, expectorant, and antimicrobial qualities, which may help reduce the symptoms of nasal congestion. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory properties work together to reduce the redness and swelling caused by nasal polyps.

To reap these benefits of ginger, you may prepare a soothing cup of fresh ginger tea to relieve nasal congestion. Grate some fresh ginger and mix it in boiling water, adding honey or stevia afterward for sweetness. This natural remedy may help reduce inflammation, sinus pressure, and mucus production.

Inhaling ginger-flavored vapors directly may also help. Add some chopped ginger to hot water in a large pan. Then, cover your head with a towel and sit with your face facing the pan. Inhaling the steam for 5 minutes can provide soothing comfort to nasal passages.

Chili peppers
Chili peppers contain naturally-occurring compounds called capsaicinoids. These compounds cause heat sensation after coming in contact with pain receptors in the tongue or lips. They help open up blocked nasal passages, draining mucus and relieving pressure from the nasal polyps. This may reduce the discomfort caused due to congestion and make breathing easier.

Chili peppers are a great way to treat nasal congestion and other respiratory illnesses (pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, etc.) You may incorporate them into your favorite dishes, sauces, dips, soups, and stews.

Hot tea
Hot tea can be a great option for naturally relieving nasal discomfort. It’s packed with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and antioxidants that help clear away blocked mucus. Additionally, its steam is often effective in loosening up stuck blockages.

A cup of hot tea may help fight attacks from foreign pathogens (influenza and viruses) that can cause inflammation in the nasal passages.

Honey
Raw honey contains properties that help reduce inflammation in the nose and prevent thick, sticky mucus from forming. You can break up mucus and clear blocked airways by adding a teaspoon of raw honey to a glass of warm water or tea. Additionally, its antibacterial properties attack germs and act as a natural remedy. Honey is also a natural antioxidant and contains antibacterial agents (triclosan, chlorhexidine, and polymyxin B sulfate) that may help reduce infection in the sinuses.

Furthermore, as a mild expectorant, it cleans the nasal tract, removing allergens and other impurities (smoke, dust, and pollen). The soothing nature of honey helps to dampen the airways and reduce the irritation that may cause nasal congestion.

One of the most effective to use this ingredient is to mix a spoonful of honey in warm water or tea and drink it before bed. Another easier option is to have a tablespoon of honey undiluted.

Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain natural ingredients that may help you fight nose blockage. The antioxidants in citrus fruits (hesperidin and limonene) may help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and the throat. Additionally, these antioxidants may also reduce mucus accumulation.

Vitamin C is the primary nutrient found in citrus fruits. This vitamin is more than just a delicious addition to your morning juice – it possesses powerful healing properties. Not only does vitamin C help strengthen the body’s immune system, but its circulatory-boosting benefits offer relief from congestion and other sinus issues associated with colds or infections.

Turmeric
Curcumin, a compound present in turmeric, has many health benefits (eases joint pain and boosts body immunity), including the ability to fight off nasal congestion. In addition, curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that may reduce inflammation in nasal polyps.

Curcumin naturally supports healthier mucus secretions in the nasal tract. These secretions form a protective barrier of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, which trap foreign particles while providing lubrication for smoother breathing. In addition, adding 500-600 mg of turmeric to daily food preparations may reduce inflammation and congestion.

You may reap the benefits of this age-old household remedy by drinking turmeric tea or adding turmeric powder to salads, soups, and sauces.

Broths
Broths are hugely beneficial to overcome nasal polyps. Adding vegetables and herbs to a broth stock provides essential oils and nutrients, relieving nasal polyps and other cold symptoms. The cooking process breaks down the fibers in the vegetables, enabling them to release vitamins and minerals that boost your immune system.

In addition, broths are also a rich source of minerals, especially zinc. Zinc has excellent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help reduce swelling of the nasal passages.

Plenty of foods help fight nasal congestion, from ginger and garlic to chilis. All these superfoods may help clear up nasal polyps in no time. While it’s great to include these items in daily meal plans, it’s important to note that the best way to treat a cold or an allergy is by resting, exercising, and having balanced meals.

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9 common habits that affect bone health

The bones are arguably the most critical element in the human body. Bones provide structure and facilitate any movement the body makes. However, many people worldwide do not think twice about their bone health. Certain foods and lifestyle habits are detrimental to one’s bone health. Every time an individual eats such foods or carries out those habits, they reduce the strength and longevity of their bones. Here are a few such habits:

Drinking too much coffee
Drinking coffee is a favorite activity for many people.  Millions worldwide drink the beverage to keep themselves awake and going while they are working. Unfortunately, caffeine, the chief component of coffee, is not suitable for one’s bones.

Many studies have found that coffee drastically reduces bone density in postmenopausal women. About six milligrams of bone calcium are lost for every 100 milligrams of caffeine one consumes. Therefore, to avoid osteoporosis, a health condition in which the bones become incredibly weakened and porous with time, one must stop drinking caffeine-rich foods or consume them in moderation.

Failing to get enough sunlight
Vitamin D is a vital element when it comes to keeping the bones healthy. Sunlight is an abundant source of vitamin D. Therefore, people must go outdoors more often to expose themselves to early morning sunlight, arguably the richest source of vitamin D. This habit can keep their bones strong and healthy for many years.

Conversely, people who do not get sunlight or cannot step out of their house long enough to expose themselves to the sun are vulnerable to weakened bones and joints.

Sitting on the couch for too long
The body needs frequent movement to prevent stiffness and other flexibility-related issues. If an individual sits on a couch or a chair for too long, they are depriving their body of this all-important movement. Over time, their bones weaken and become less resilient to strain. Also, just as with bad posture, sitting or sleeping for too long can affect the shape of bones in the long run.

Many workplaces have employees sitting in one position for hours before a computer screen. In such workplaces, such individuals must be encouraged to take a quick walk or some rounds of exercise after every few productive hours. Doing so will keep their bones and the rest of their body healthy for a long time.

Consuming too many sugary snacks
Having a sweet tooth is not a problem; however, one needs to keep their sugar consumption in check to keep their blood and bones healthy. When people consume too many sugary snacks, such as donuts and pastries, they may skip other meals because sugary snacks are pretty heavy. This, in turn, means that such individuals are not eating as much nutrient-rich food as they should. Over time, this causes significant bone issues in individuals.

Not performing weight-bearing activities
A weight-bearing activity, as the name implies, is an exercise in which an individual uses their body weight to create the resistance that drives the workout. So, activities such as jogging, hiking, weight training, and walking are considered effective weight-bearing activities. These activities are crucial for boosting one’s bone intensity and mass. Missing out on these activities can come at a cost for individuals. After all, not doing these activities often keeps one’s bones from becoming sturdier and more resilient to knocks and blows.

Spending too much time indoors
Staying perpetually indoors, even if one moves around frequently, is not just detrimental to one’s bones because they are not getting sunlight exposure. Keeping oneself inside a house for long periods deprives them of pure, fresh oxygen and increases their chances of developing weaknesses and sicknesses. Not experiencing the sights and sounds of the external world can cause people to lose interest in any movement or exercise.

Eventually, this can result in poor health and immunity. Ultimately, not stepping out of one’s house is very likely to make one’s bones weaker and more susceptible to osteoporosis due to the sheer lack of sunlight and the other nutrients one can get by breathing fresh air outdoors.

Not working out regularly
Exercise is linked to increasing one’s strength in every way imaginable. Additionally, exercising regularly (if not daily, at least two to three times a week) builds a person’s stamina and strength. The exercise does not have to be overly complicated or taxing on the body. All one needs to do is walk a few rounds in a nearby park or do stretching exercises. Exercising speeds up the process of breathing in and out.

Additionally, workouts help increase the rate of blood circulation in the body. This causes oxygen and nutrients to travel to different vital organs and bones of the body on a much quicker basis. As a result, the bones get nourishment and proper testing regularly, maintaining strength.

Having a poor posture
Many people cannot sit with a straight back due to laziness or back pain. A person develops bad posture when sitting with a bent back in front of their TV or while playing video games for hours daily. This is arguably an even worse problem than insufficient movement throughout the day. While that problem makes the bones weaker, this one can cause bone deformation if kept up for a long time.

Eating food that has too much salt
Salt is a bad food when it comes to blood pressure or bone health. The more salt a person eats, the more calcium they lose. This element extracts calcium from one’s bones and teeth, leaving them brittle and porous. Therefore, while salt is unavoidable, consuming it in moderate proportions daily is still recommended.