Key Things to Know About Thyroid Cancer

Ulcerative colitis is a condition that can cause inflammation and sores in the digestive tract. Further, it significantly affects the colon – the innermost lining of the large intestine. While this health condition can be painful, in rare cases, it can also become life-threatening. So, healthcare professionals suggest patients stay away from potential triggers, especially certain foods. This article will elaborate on the 11 foods that can trigger ulcerative colitis.

Broccoli
While cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli are considered beneficial for the body, they can be harmful for patients with ulcerative colitis. Generally, such vegetables contain high amounts of insoluble fiber. Moreover, when consumed either raw or cooked, these cruciferous veggies can trigger gas and bloating. So, in addition to broccoli, it is suggested that people with digestive issues avoid adding cabbage, cauliflower, and sprouts to their meals.

Beans
Quite similar to cruciferous vegetables, beans are rich in fiber, which can lead to problems like bloating and gas, thus triggering a flare-up. Therefore, healthcare professionals recommend eliminating beans from one’s meal plan to manage ulcerative colitis. But, in cases where patients cannot steer clear of it, they must try different preparations and limit the intake. For instance, one can remove the outer layer of chickpeas to ease the digestion process.

Corn
Corn or corn kernels are known for their health benefits such as managing blood sugar and regulating bowel movements. However, these kernels contain insoluble fiber that cannot be digested by the human body and can cause issues like diarrhea. So, as an alternative, it is suggested that patients with ulcerative colitis or ones experiencing an active flare-up opt for easily digestible foods such as bananas, potatoes, and white rice.

Chocolate
The prominent ingredients of chocolate are caffeine and sugar, both of which can trigger an ulcerative colitis flare-up. In most cases, patients have noticed that these ingredients cause cramping and increase bowel movements. Therefore, those experiencing an active flare-up or living with the condition must stay away from chocolate.

Cake
Food items such as cakes and pastries often contain high amounts of added sugar, which can trigger flare-ups. When one eats such foods, the added sugar can change the balance of gut-based bacteria and cause inflammatory bowel disease-like symptoms. In addition to this, the processed or refined sugar found in such food items can spike blood sugar levels and cause an increase in inflammation. As a result, people with ulcerative colitis are advised to opt for alternative foods such as cantaloupes and other cooked fruits.

Peanuts
Just like high-fiber foods, peanuts and other nuts in their raw form cannot be broken down well by the digestive system. This can cause patients to feel a sense of discomfort during both digestion and bowel movements. Besides, nuts are allergens that can trigger a response in some people, so, it is best to steer clear of this food item. Nevertheless, if one wishes to eat peanuts, they can ground them into smooth butter that can be added to smoothies.

Raw onions
Raw onions are one of the common foods that can trigger ulcerative colitis as they contain fiber that cannot be digested easily. Additionally, these veggies can cause gas, which can lead to stomach pain in some people. As an alternative, one can opt for other herbs such as basil, thyme, and parsley to add flavor to their meals. If needed, one can even cut onions into small pieces and cook them thoroughly to reap the maximum benefits of the food.

Tomatoes
Even freshly picked tomatoes are acidic in nature, which can irritate the intestinal lining. Moreover, tomato seeds can prove to be incredibly difficult to digest for ulcerative colitis patients. So, one can either limit the intake of tomatoes to half a cup or opt for other alternatives, such as squash, which can be consumed in the form of soup.

Coffee
The main ingredient of coffee – caffeine, is a stimulant that can make way for problems such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Furthermore, coffee has chlorogenic acid, which can lead to an increase in the production of stomach acids and cause heartburn. In addition, if one is used to having large amounts of coffee throughout the day, it can leave one dehydrated, worsening the symptoms of the condition. Therefore, it is best to avoid such triggers that can cause an ulcerative colitis flare-up. Alternatively, one may peel off the outer layer of cucumbers and squash and prepare a healthy snack option.

Soda
Most carbonated beverages such as soda contain high amounts of artificial sweeteners – a definite ulcerative colitis trigger. Additionally, they contain caffeine, which can increase bowel movements and gas and the bubbles in these beverages can also cause one to feel bloated and have cramps. So, people with ulcerative colitis are advised to keep away from such beverages that can irritate the gut lining and increase the risk of inflammation and flare-ups. Instead, they are suggested to opt for fresh fruit juices like grapefruit, oranges, and other citrus fruits to keep themselves hydrated.

Milk
People who are lactose intolerant can experience inflammatory bowel disease-like symptoms when they consume milk and other dairy products. This is because milk contains certain proteins called casein, which can lead to intestinal inflammation and other gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Thus, ulcerative colitis patients are suggested to either completely avoid milk and dairy products or limit their intake to keep flare-ups at bay.

The above foods can trigger ulcerative colitis as well as Crohn’s disease, both of which are inflammatory conditions. However, one must keep in mind that ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are different health conditions related to the digestive tract. While both of them have similar symptoms such as rectal bleeding and diarrhea, the former affects the lining of the colon, the latter causes chronic inflammation of the complete gastrointestinal tract.

An adult has 206 bones compared to an infant’s 306; as one grows, the bone fuses, and the bone tissues constantly break down and rebuild. The length of bones stops growing between the ages of 16 and 18, but bone density continues growing until age 35. Individuals begin to lose bone tissue between the ages of 35 and 40, but this can be hastened by conditions like osteoporosis, which leads to drastic bone loss.

What is osteoporosis?
Bones have a thick outer shell and an inner mesh resembling a honeycomb. The mesh contains proteins and minerals like collagen and calcium. Our body needs minerals like phosphorus and magnesium to build new bones regularly. As we age, if our body loses more bones than it can produce, it cumulatively results in bone loss. This condition is called osteoporosis, which develops and progresses slowly over many years.

The bone’s outer shell and honeycomb-like mesh gradually become thinner when osteoporosis happens. The bone becomes weak, putting the person at a high risk of bone pain and fractures. Osteoporosis does not have any specific symptoms. Most men and women may not know they have had osteoporosis until the bone pain and stiffness become too intense or if they suffer a sudden fracture. Fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist are the most common impact of osteoporosis. Weak bones can break at the slightest movement and cause fractures when the person falls. In severe cases of osteoporosis, even a sneeze or a cough can cause a fracture.

Five diseases that cause osteoporosis
Whatever the cause, bone loss can only be delayed but not reversed. Genetic, autoimmune, hormonal, liver and allergic, psychiatric, and neurological disorders can cause osteoporosis. Five such diseases are:

Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited and life-threatening disease that causes thick sticky mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and internal organs. It leads to low bone minerals, causing the holes in the bones to become big, making them weak and brittle. The condition is a leading cause of bone loss and fractures. Doctors have yet to identify a cure for cystic fibrosis and use a combination of prescription treatments, anti-inflammatory treatments, antibiotics, and gene therapy to manage it. 

Anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder where one restricts their food intake, fearing they may become overweight. They may be very thin and underweight, but they are still anxious and irrational fear about putting on weight. They tend to avoid meals and eat very little. The lack of proper nutrition can affect hormone production, irregular menstruation, low estrogen production, and excessive production of cortisol that triggers bone loss. Each of these factors impacts affects bone growth. Both men and women can develop anorexia nervosa and osteoporosis due to malnutrition and low bone density.

Doctors treat anorexia nervosa with a combination of healthy foods, prescription treatment, nutritional counseling, group therapy, and, if necessary, hospitalization.

Celiac disease
Celiac disease affects the intestines and is an autoimmune condition where our body cannot absorb or tolerate gluten. When the immune system senses gluten, it starts attacking the small intestine, damaging the lining. The small intestine then becomes unable to absorb nutrients. Without adequate nutrition, a person with Celiac disease may become malnourished and have consequences like anemia, weight loss, delayed growth, or lack of adequate growth, resulting in a small frame. Osteoporosis and consequent bone loss and loss of mass bone are common complications of Celiac disease. A gluten-free food regime is the best treatment for this condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition. It is an autoimmune disease that damages the connective tissue in the joints. As the disease progresses, it results in joint stiffness and the weakening of bone tissue around the affected joints. Osteoporosis is a co-morbid condition of rheumatoid arthritis. The treatments for RA can trigger bone loss, pain and joint stiffness, making mobility difficult, and the resultant inactivity can trigger fractures around the joints. There is no cure yet for RA, and doctors use a combination of prescription treatments, nutrition, physical therapy and frequent screening to arrest its progression.

Chronic renal disease
If a person has chronic renal disease, their kidneys cannot flush extra minerals out of their system, resulting in the build-up of phosphorous and calcium in their blood. Excess phosphorous causes the calcium in the bones to mix with blood. The kidneys are also unable to convert food and sunlight into vitamin D, causing its deficiency. Cumulatively the bone begins to become weaker, leading to osteoporosis.

Doctors treat chronic renal disease with a combination of prescription treatments and low-phosphorous and low-calcium meal plans. Doctors may also prescribe dialysis for people with advanced renal disease.

Other risk factors for osteoporosis
Aside from diseases, there are several reasons why one can develop osteoporosis. Though aging is the primary cause of the condition, not every person will be affected by it. Some natural, lifestyle and other health factors significantly increase the chances of osteoporosis, like:

Age
Men and women above 30 are at a higher risk.
Gender
Women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men.
Menopause
Estrogen promotes the growth of osteoblasts, cells that produce bone. After menopause, the production of estrogen and osteoblasts reduce, resulting in gradual bone loss. Menopausal women are at a higher risk for developing osteoporosis.
Body mass and build
A person with a thin frame and low body weight is at higher risk than people with larger frames.
Family history
If any of your older family members have a history of hunched shoulders or frequent spine or hip fractures, you, too, are at a higher risk of the condition.
Prescription treatment
Long-term use of certain prescription treatments like steroids, immunosuppressants, and anticoagulants can lead to osteoporosis. Treatments for managing epilepsy and thyroid problems can also increase the risk of bone loss.
Nutritional deficiencies
Malnutrition and imbalances in calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and vitamin D levels can also increase the risk of bone loss.
Lifestyle
Long-term use of specific addictive products, lack of physical activity, and sedentary lifestyle increase the risk of bone loss and fractures.
Underlying diseases and disorders
As seen above, diseases like chronic liver disease, metabolic disorders, certain cancers, rheumatologic diseases, and diabetes can also lead to osteoporosis.

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.

When we sense an impending danger, our body creates a survival mechanism by sending adrenaline to our blood, enabling us to stay and fight or leave the scene. Sometimes, this happens when one perceives some danger to themselves, even though there is none. If such alerts happen frequently, our body becomes hyperalert and sends signals in the form of physical changes. These changes are called anxiety disorders and are a type of mental illness.

What is anxiety?
An anxious person typically tends to exaggerate or, in some cases, imagine a threat. They could have thoughts like:

• I am in a dangerous situation right now
• I cannot cope with it
• The worst is going to happen to me

Along with such thoughts, they may also see some physical changes, including:

• Tension
• Perspiration
• Sudden intense blushing
• Increase in heart rate
• Tremble or shakiness in legs
• Wringing of hands
• Lump in the throat
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Irritable bowel syndrome or a sudden urge to pass stools

Once the physical symptoms begin, they may feel they cannot survive and want to escape. If they feel anxiety, they are likely to isolate themselves from others by avoiding people and specific places, or they may go there only with a companion. The cycle of thoughts and symptoms continues viciously and causes impediments in the ability to participate in day-to-day domestic, professional, or societal activities. To prevent this, treatment and management of anxiety are necessary.

Importance of managing anxiety
Anxiety can happen to anyone, irrespective of age and gender. Besides interfering with a person’s ability to lead an everyday life, anxiety can be distressing and debilitating. It can lead to reduced workplace productivity or poor academic performance. It can affect a person’s ability to engage and maintain relationships within a family and society. Structure treatment and self-care coping strategies can help people with anxiety recover and lead healthy life.

Ten best management options for anxiety
Self-care works well to manage anxiety, provided one reads and learns about these techniques. However, it would be better to consult a therapist once before trying to manage it yourselves. Here are some of the ten best management options for anxiety.

Education
Knowing what anxiety is and its physical and emotional impact is the first step in managing it. Knowing the typical symptoms of anxiety can help identify it and help one control them. One can also become a support group member that works with people with anxiety disorders.

Trigger identification
Knowing what causes anxiety and its associated symptoms is another important step in personalizing the treatment. By paying close attention, one can determine if a person, group of persons, a past event, or location causes anxiety. One can also identify if there are any patterns in these triggers and make a journal of such information so that one can work on it or work with a mental health professional.

Confrontation of unhelpful thoughts
When feeling anxious, one may lose control of their thoughts. Recognizing if their thoughts are unrealistic and if they assume everyone is talking about them is noticed. One may also exaggerate and blow things out of proportion. For example, one could worry about the impact of the perceived bad things and blame themselves for everything.

Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique that helps one stay with their complex thoughts without suppressing or encouraging them. It teaches them to respond to their thoughts instead of reacting impulsively and instinctively. Mindful meditation reduces stress and helps focus on the situation without imagining consequences.

Assertion
An anxious person may refrain from saying what they think as they fear a conflict. They can stop communicating with friends, family, or caregivers. It is essential to improve their ability to convey their thoughts honestly. It gives them self-confidence and makes them ask for help from their network.

Relaxation techniques
Along with mindfulness, you can also participate in relaxation techniques that help you release the tension in your muscles and body. It can help in reducing physical symptoms like hyperventilation and dizziness. Some of the relaxation techniques that are effective in controlling your breathing patterns are:

• Abdominal breathing instead of breathing through the chest
• Progressive muscle reaction
• Isometric relaxation exercises

You can practice these techniques every day for fifteen minutes and in the instances that cause anxiety.

Graded exposure
Graded exposure is an approach that helps you fight your fears by staying in a situation that makes you anxious until your fears subside. You expose yourself to such situations incrementally and in measured doses and come out when your anxiety has reduced significantly. You can use the benefits of mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help you overcome anxiety. Over time you can increase the duration of exposure and continue this routine until you can face your anxieties without any physical symptoms.

Physical activity
Physical activity does not cure anxiety but is very helpful in managing symptoms like increased heart rate, stiff muscles, and shallow breathing. Engage in activities like jogging, walking, biking, aerobics, or Zumba for thirty minutes at least five days a week. Start with ten minutes a day; you can increase the duration as you get more comfortable. It can help you destress, stabilize your heart rate and regularize your breathing.

Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes are a crucial self-care management option for anxiety. Increase the consumption of magnesium, Vitamin B, and calcium, as these deficiencies can lead to stress and anxiety. Increase the consumption of rainbow-colored vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Avoid stimulants like caffeine and liquor, as they can interfere with your sleep patterns and make you tired the next day.

Professional care
Apart from the self-care techniques, a person who shows signs of anxiety must get professional care from a certified mental health professional. They typically combine prescription therapies, counseling, and cognitive and behavioral therapies to treat anxiety. The goal of treatment is to improve their patient’s physical symptoms, help them cope with unpleasant thoughts, and gradually build self-confidence.