Top 7 subtle signs of schizophrenia

Due to its incurable and terminal nature, cancer scares the living daylights out of everyone. People do their best to stay away from things that may cause them to develop cancers of any kind. There are many well-known carcinogens that healthy people actively avoid, such as soot, certain types of radiation, and cholesterol-heavy foods. However, there are many elements within one’s own house that can be carcinogenic in nature. Some such household items are:

Room spray
Formaldehyde is one of the most dangerous carcinogens out there. Room sprays contain this chemical, but most of them do not mention it in their ingredients list column. This is mainly because these sprays contain preservatives and chemicals that are scientifically termed “formaldehyde-releasers.” So, when these chemicals are inserted into a formula, they undergo a series of reactions and release the dreaded carcinogen. Apart from room sprays, one will find formaldehyde in face care and body care based makeup products.

If possible, one can seek and purchase formaldehyde-free products and non-toxic room sprays to keep their house smelling sweet even without the cancer-causing element.

Perfumes
Just like formaldehyde, styrene is another chemical that can eventually cause cancer in people if they are exposed frequently to it. Fragrances are the most common products that contain styrene as one of its main elements. However, like formaldehyde, perfume manufacturers do not list this chemical in the ingredients of their products. This happens because perfumes contain hundreds of naturally occurring and artificial chemicals. However, IFRA (the International Fragrance Association, a global representative body of the fragrance industry) lists all the ingredients of the products their member fragrances use, and styrene makes nearly all those lists.

To sidestep this problem, consumers can again purchase non-toxic perfumes that contain only organic elements.

Insect repellents
Nearly everyone has some or the other kinds of insects residing in their houses. To keep these insects at bay, people commonly use insecticides and repellents. The toxic and deadly nature of insecticides and repellents is well known, which is why people wash their hands after using these products. This helps prevent the deadly chemical from entering their mouths. However, insecticides are much more dangerous than most people know. Insect repellent sprays contain many carcinogenic chemicals such as carbamate, organophosphate, and organochlorine as active ingredients. These components are effective in eradicating insects and pests from one’s house, but they also hold the capacity to cause lung cancer if inhaled in the long term.

Apart from that, exposure to insecticidal sprays can also cause central nervous issues in people. So, it is not uncommon for people who inhale these sprays inadvertently to suffer from problems related to their brain, spinal column, and nerves, the three main components of the nervous system.
Due to these reasons, one needs to purchase organic insect repellents and ones that do not contain any heavy chemicals, if possible.

Some types of scented candles
As the header says, not all scented candles are toxic, but many commercially-sold candles, unfortunately, fall into that bracket. To cut their production expenses, many candle manufacturers do not think twice before using cheap but effective manufacturing chemicals such as petroleum, paraffin, and perfumes while producing scented candles. Unfortunately, these chemicals give out fumes while burning. These fumes are not much different from the exhaust fumes that come out of a car when being driven. As almost everyone knows, the fumes coming out of a car’s exhaust pipe are highly toxic and carcinogenic in nature.

Crispy, brown foods
While foods do not necessarily fulfill the criteria of home-based items, they are technically a part of the perishable things one will find in their house. Brown foods include, among others, eatables that contain potatoes. When one heats potatoes to high temperatures, the vegetables burn and emit a chemical named acrylamide. Several research studies have found that test animals that were given this chemical through drinking water or air have gone on to develop and succumb to cancer in the long run.

To cut down on the amount of brown foods one consumes, one can eat foods that are roasted, fried, or baked until they have a natural tan color. In this way, they will not compromise on taste and keep themselves relatively safe from developing cancer.

Cushioned furniture
Soft, cuddly furniture that contains cushions is often layered with a chemical known as TDCIPP. Many kinds of mattresses, sofas, and chairs that contain foam of any kind often need this flame retardant to become perfect for purchase. Unfortunately, this chemical is a major carcinogen, and it can lead to people developing lifelong malignancies if they come into regular contact with it. In fact, research studies found that live test subjects with this chemical in their blood are likely to have some or the other kinds of tumors in their body. What’s more, TDCIPP is also a chemical that is commonly found in household dust.

Thankfully, this is a problem that can be dealt with just as easily. People can simply replace all the cushioned furniture purchased prior to 2013 with new ones. This works because, after 2013, manufacturers have been asked to stop using this flame retardant while making their products. This means that more recent furniture purchases have a lower risk of giving people cancer.

Arsenic-infused drinking water
Now, most people get water that is free of chemicals and harmful toxins. However, many zones across the country still have people extensively using groundwater to fulfill their daily work, including washing utensils, drinking, and bathing. Due to extensive industrialization and soil pollution, groundwater is often mixed with heavy doses of arsenic. This chemical causes cancer if people are exposed to it for even a short amount of time. To counter this problem, people must stop the intake of polluted groundwater and use the water processed and sent to their homes through the tap.

Apart from these elements, some other household items that may cause cancer are hand sanitizers, carpets, and fabric softeners.

Peeing is such a natural part of our daily lives, that we rarely stop to think about it. It is an important bodily function that helps get rid of waste that the body does not need anymore. Moreover, peeing habits and hygiene practices can contribute to a range of urinary and bladder issues over time, impacting one’s day-to-day activities. Here are seven common peeing mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder.

Holding pee in for too long
At times, holding pee in is unavoidable, whether at concerts or long car trips. However, making it a habit can be detrimental to bladder health. Full bladders are more susceptible to infections as the bacteria can grow and multiply at a quicker rate. Over time, the practice of holding urine in for too long can also stretch out the bladder and cause loss of bladder function.

On the other hand, those who are not able to hold their bladder at all or suffer from urinary incontinence must visit a urologist or pelvic floor therapist for a proper diagnosis.

Not emptying the bladder fully
When peeing, it is important to empty the bladder fully. Failing to do so can stretch out the bladder and contribute to bladder troubles over time. This may not always be a conscious decision, it may occur when someone is in a rush or has urinary retention (a common symptom of blockages, infections, swelling, or even neurological conditions).

Some symptoms of urinary retention include pain or swelling in the lower abdomen, frequently urinating in small amounts, feeling the urge to pee even after urinating, and having a slow stream.

Staying dehydrated
This is one of the most common mistakes to avoid for a healthy bladder. Our fluid intake plays a crucial role in maintaining bladder health. Drinking the right amount of water makes the pee appear clear or light yellow. Dark yellow or amber urine is a sign of dehydration, which can increase the risk of UTIs and kidney stones. To maintain kidney health and bladder function, keep sipping on water throughout the day.

Having excessive caffeine
Caffeine is a known bladder irritant, which means it can increase the urge to pee and cause pain. It is commonly found in tea, coffee, and soda. Excessive caffeine intake can increase the urge to pee throughout the day, impacting the quality of life and productivity. According to the FDA, 400 mg of caffeine (or about 4 cups of brewed coffee) per day is considered a safe amount for most healthy adults.

Ignoring recurrent UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria infect the urinary tract, bladder, or kidneys. Some common symptoms that people experience include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, a strong urge to urinate, and foul-smelling urine.

The risk for UTIs increases with anatomical issues, pregnancy, and menopause. Since women have a shorter urethra, they are more susceptible to UTIs in comparison to men. Among adult women, a recurrent UTI is diagnosed as having over three infections in a year. However, since men are less likely to experience UTIs, they must receive medical attention immediately.

Not paying attention to pinkish or reddish urine
Several factors determine the color of our urine, including the amount of fluids we consume and the food we eat. Passing pinkish or reddish urine can be a sign of hematuria or blood in the urine. It could be a result of a UTI, kidney disease, stones, injury, or even bladder cancer.

Consuming too much vitamin C
Vitamin C is highly regarded for its immune-boosting properties. However, consuming too much vitamin C increases the oxalate levels in the body, which in turn, increases the risk of kidney stones. According to the FDA, the recommended daily intake of vitamin C for adult men and women is 90 mg per day and 75 mg per day respectively.

Tips to keep the bladder healthy
Here are some tips that may help manage bladder health.

• Use the washroom as required and try to pass urine once every three to four hours to reduce the risk of bladder infections.
• When peeing, be in a relaxed position and don’t rush to finish. Take enough time to fully empty the bladder.
• Women must wipe from front to back, especially after passing stool. This reduces the risk of any gut bacteria finding its way to the urethra.
• Urinate after intercourse to reduce the chances of UTIs.
• Doing pelvic floor exercises regularly can help strengthen the muscles around the bladder and keep infections at bay. Moreover, exercising regularly can help reduce constipation and prevent bladder problems.
• Wear cotton underwear to keep the area surrounding the urethra dry; moisture can lead to increased bacterial growth.
• Certain foods and drinks can increase the risk of bladder problems, including sodas, artificial sweeteners, and spicy foods. Keeping a close watch on food intake can help.
• Drink lots of fluids, especially water. While the required water intake can change from person to person depending on where they live, their activity levels, health conditions, and other factors, aim to drink 6-8 glasses of water per day.
• Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and sodas as they can irritate the bladder and increase the frequency and urge to urinate.
• Stool buildup in the colon can also increase the pressure on the bladder, not allowing it to expand to its full capacity. Avoid this by eating high-fiber foods such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits and staying hydrated.
• In case of frequent urination, keeping a bladder diary can help track one’s washroom trips and fluid intake throughout the day.
• Stand up and move around for five minutes after every hour of sitting to reduce the risk of developing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as incomplete emptying, urinary frequency or urgency, or a weak urinary stream.

Despite the widespread prevalence of diabetes and a lot of awareness about it, many myths and wrong information surround it. Patients tend to believe that only sugary foods can increase blood sugar and that avoiding sweets can help cure them. However, desserts are not the only source of sugar. Plenty of ordinary, seemingly healthy foods can also increase blood sugar. If you have diabetes, it is important to understand which foods to avoid.

Five surprising foods that can increase blood sugar
Aside from food, other factors that cause blood sugar’s sudden rise and fall are lifestyle, stress, certain underlying diseases, and prescription treatments. Lack of exercise, dehydration, and lack of sleep can also cause a spike in sugar levels. While most of us know that sugar and high-carb foods can cause fluctuation in blood sugar, here are five surprising foods that can increase blood sugar:

Brown rice
Brown rice captivated the hearts of fitness-conscious people as a superfood with many benefits. Many converted from white rice to brown rice. It is rich in fiber and antioxidants and helps in building immunity. However, it still has a high carb content that can be broken down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream after metabolism. Do not take more than 1/3rd cup of brown rice – anything more can spike your blood sugar.

Oatmeal
One cup of oatmeal contains about 27 grams of carbs. If you have been having packaged oatmeal or cooking plain oats on your own, both can cause an increase in your blood sugar. Instead of eating oatmeal alone, reduce the portion size and pair it with another dish like egg, yogurt, fruits, or nuts to reduce oats and control blood sugar. Use cinnamon or berries to add flavor. Do not add milk, dried fruit, artificial sweeteners, honey, or cream to your oatmeal, as it can spike blood sugar.

Sweet potato
Sweet potato is often considered an alternative to potatoes for people with diabetes. However, this should not be the case. All potatoes may have about 30 grams of carbs each. One or two boiled, roasted, or baked sweet potato can cause a significant spike in your sugar level.

Yogurt
Yogurt is a very popular snack and dessert as it contains probiotics and is very tasty. Unfortunately, store-bought flavored yogurt contains artificial sweeteners and preservatives. It is also heavily processed – all of which can increase blood sugar. If you love yogurt, you can learn to make Greek yogurt at home and add diabetic-friendly fruits as toppings instead of consuming processed yogurt.

Whole wheat bread and pasta
Whole wheat bread and pasta have been widely promoted as healthy alternatives to white bread and pasta made from refined flour. Though it may contain more vitamins and fiber than white bread, it may not benefit diabetes patients. These food items contain as many processed carbs as white bread!

Five signs that indicate excess blood sugar
Blood sugar can suddenly shoot up not just for people with diabetes but also for those recovering from heart disease or an infection. It is not a concern if you occasionally experience excess blood sugar, as it can return to normal on its own or with treatment. Excess sugar that does not come down for a long time is a cause for concern and leads to severe health complications. Knowing the early signs of excess blood sugar can help you identify it for yourself or your family member. Once you observe the changes in your body and identify possible signs of excess blood sugar, you can take corrective steps to reduce it. Visit your primary physician for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Five signs that indicate excess blood sugar are:

Frequent urination
An unusual and frequent urge to urinate is one of the first signs of high blood sugar. This happens as the kidneys work extra to send the sugar out of the body. If you urinate more than 20 times during the day, it is an indication of excess blood sugar.

Increased appetite
You may feel hungry even right after a meal. In people with type 2 diabetes, since the body is insulin resistant, the muscles can’t get energy from the food they eat and send a signal saying they want energy. This signal is what people with diabetes feel as hunger. The constant hunger is an indication of excess blood sugar.

Extreme thirst
Our body pulls the fluids from our tissues to dilute the excess sugar in the blood. The tissues become dehydrated, and as a result, you constantly feel thirsty even after drinking water. Increased urination also adds to the thirst. Extreme thirst is an early indication of diabetes and excess blood sugar.

Delay in the healing of wounds and bruises
Excess blood sugar causes blood vessels to stiffen, restricting blood flow to injuries and bruises. Because of this, it takes more than the standard time for wounds to heal. If you notice that cuts and bruises take longer than normal to heal, it could indicate excess blood sugar.

Frequent and unexplained infections
Bacteria thrive in blood with high sugar, putting diabetes patients at risk for frequent infections. Women are at higher risk for bladder and vaginal infections. It could be a sign of high sugar if you notice frequent infections.

Prevention of chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes
Both types of diabetes put patients at high risk for chronic kidney disease. It develops slowly and, in most cases, does not show any symptoms. Here are some ways by which you can prevent chronic kidney disease if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes:

Do not miss a doctor’s appointment; take the prescription on time without missing or altering the dosage.
Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and keep them within normal range.
Test your sugar level periodically as advised by your doctor.
Do an A1C test at least twice a year.
Maintain blood pressure and cholesterol within limits.
Avoid food rich in phosphorous, sodium, and potassium.
Increase the number of fruits and vegetables.
Exercise regularly.

Water is a vital component that supports the body’s functioning on almost every level. For instance, it ensures optimal oxygen supply to different organs, provides energy, regulates internal temperature through perspiration, lubricates the joints, and facilitates other essential functions that promote one’s overall well-being. But unfortunately, most people overlook this basic need of the body in their busy schedules and fail to drink adequate amounts of water, which turns out detrimental in the long run.

Side effects of insufficient water intake
The required daily water intake can vary from person to person depending on their age, activity level, and other factors. However, the recommended amount is 2.7 liters for women and 3.7 liters for men. A person’s body may not show signs of thirst on not meeting this requirement. However, it can lead to several complications over time. In most cases, these complications are mistaken for other health concerns but are actually the side effects of a lack of water intake.

Below are a few immediate and long-term side effects of drinking insufficient water:

Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water through vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating than it receives. This can lead to imbalances in bodily functions and cause physical symptoms like dizziness and a dry mouth. Sometimes, it can also lead to reduced urination, which can cause further complications. While dehydration could result from other underlying health issues as well, one should proactively increase their water intake and see if the discomforts subside.

Joint and muscle pain
Hydration is crucial for joint lubrication, joint cushioning, and proper muscle function. Insufficient water intake can lead to joint stiffness, increased risk of injuries, and muscle cramps. Drinking water is especially crucial during physical activity to prevent these issues. Hence, individuals visiting the gym should carry a bottle of water and keep sipping it between workouts.

Impaired cognitive function
Prioritizing water intake can help optimize cognitive function, enhance mental performance, and promote overall brain health. On the other hand, dehydration can lead to the narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, causing cognitive impairments like memory retention issues and an inability to concentrate. Not drinking water regularly can also negatively impact one’s mood and lead to anxiety.

Sunken eyes
Studies show that a lack of water in the body can darken the areas around the eyes, making them appear shadowy and sunken. If the region surrounding the eyes seems thin or papery, it is likely due to insufficient water.

Digestive problems
Water helps with the digestion and absorption of nutrients and the smooth movement of food through the digestive tract. A lack of it can cause constipation, indigestion, and bloating, making bowel movements uncomfortable and irregular. It can also make one susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs) since the bacteria are not flushed out regularly.

Increased risk of kidney stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the organ and appear like lumps or crystals. They can occur for various reasons, from a family history of the condition to a lack of hydration. Regardless of the cause, kidney stones cause pain and cramps and affect urination. Drinking adequate water is one way to prevent them from forming.

Impaired physical performance
Water is crucial in helping people work, exercise, and perform well in physical activities. Not drinking enough can reduce a person’s physical capabilities, cause muscle cramps, and decrease stamina. Therefore, individuals should stay hydrated if they intend to perform any task that requires intense body movements.

Weak immunity
Water is necessary for a robust immune system. It helps transport oxygen and nutrients to cells while flushing out toxins and waste products. Without adequate hydration, the immune system may become compromised, making an individual more susceptible to illnesses and infections that could otherwise be easily avoided.

Fatigue
When the body is dehydrated, it can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels. Water is essential for transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells, providing them with the energy needed for optimal functioning. Insufficient hydration can leave one feeling tired, lethargic, and less motivated.

Interrupted or sluggish bowel movements
Water helps digest food and ensures it easily passes through different digestive tract organs. It also helps flush out waste through urine, sweat, and bowel movements, ensuring proper detoxification. Further, it softens the stool, prevents constipation, and promotes regular bowel movements. When the body lacks proper hydration, the colon absorbs more water from the stool, resulting in dry and hard feces. Long-term dehydration can also increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Poor skin health
Skin elasticity depends on how much water is present in the body. Proper hydration ensures the skin is elastic and has a healthy glow. To know if the skin is well hydrated, one can pinch the skin. If it does not bounce back, the person may need to drink more water. Besides ensuring elasticity, drinking plenty of water helps prevent scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. It keeps the skin youthful and vibrant for a long time.

Fluid imbalance in the body
The human body is made of 70% water, so lacking it can lead to a severe fluid imbalance. This can cause blood thickening, which can put more pressure on the heart to pump blood and supply iron and oxygen to all body parts. Consequently, one’s heart rate and blood pressure may increase, and their body may find it challenging to maintain an ideal temperature.

While hydration is essential, individuals must also focus on the quality of the water they drink, as it can affect their health. The drinking water should not have a peculiar taste or be contaminated or discolored. One way to ensure this is to use a trusted filtration system. A household water filter removes impurities from water, making it safe for consumption.

The second most common cancer in men is prostate cancer. It impacts the prostate gland, which secretes seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is usually localized and does not migrate. Early cancer detection results in less harm and more successful treatment of cancer. Although there are treatment alternatives, there are active clinical trials for more advanced treatments for prostate cancer. Read on to learn more about the warning signs and foods to eat and avoid for prostate cancer.

5 early warning signs of prostate cancer
Frequent urge to urinate
The prostate tumor exerts pressure on the urethra and the bladder, leading to a person getting an urge to urinate, especially at night. 

Weak flow of urine
Weak urine flow need not always be a sign of prostate cancer as one experiences trouble urinating as one ages. However, if one experiences a weak flow of urine or has no control over starting and stopping it, it is advisable to consult a doctor. 

Numbness or pain
As cancer advances, one might experience unexplainable pain in the hips, chest, or lower back. Some men may also experience numbness in the legs.

Burning or painful urination
Burning or experiencing pain while urinating is called dysuria. It is a common symptom of UTIs. However, it may also be a symptom of prostate cancer. It is better to get it checked.

Blood in the urine
Hematuria is a symptom of prostate cancer but can also be a symptom of health issues like UTIs. It always helps to get it checked.

Meal plan for prostate cancer
A well-balanced meal plan with ample fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates from whole grains, and healthy proteins can prevent prostate cancer and improve one’s overall health. Additionally, even when diagnosed with prostate cancer, paying attention to what is on one’s plate can go a long way in aiding your treatment. 

5 foods to manage prostate cancer
Broccoli
Broccoli contains complex compounds that can protect a person from cancer. This cruciferous vegetable boasts phytochemicals like sulforaphane that can target cancer cells while leaving out normal healthy prostate cells. Other vegetables like cauliflower, kale, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts also contain phytochemicals and can protect the prostate. 

Green tea
There must be some health benefits when a billion people have been drinking this for years. Green tea has several compounds like xanthine derivatives, antioxidants, and epicatechin that improve overall health. Researchers now believe that green tea can potentially minimize the risk of prostate cancer by targeting tumor cells and hormones that signal their growth. 

Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene, which can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Several studies indicate that lycopene can potentially decrease cell damage and slow down the production of cancer cells. Additionally, research shows that people who eat more tomatoes are less likely to develop prostate cancer. Since lycopene is tightly bound to the cell wall in raw tomatoes, it is best to eat them cooked or puréed to enjoy its benefits. 

Legumes
Legumes are food items that include beans, lentils, and peanuts. These plants contain an active compound known as a phytoestrogen. This compound can reduce the risk of prostate cancer by as much as 20%. The antioxidant properties found in legumes affect hormone regulation and cell death, which can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. 

Pomegranates
Pomegranates are replete with antioxidants and can help reduce oxidative stress, thus inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer cells. Pomegranate juice impedes the production of prostate cancer cells and therefore is beneficial for preventing this disease. Including pomegranate seeds in salads or adding pomegranate juice to sparkling water to improve prostate health is healthy. 

5 foods to avoid during prostate cancer treatment
Dairy products
Consuming large amounts of dairy products tends to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Whole milk seems to accelerate the progression of prostate cancer. Skimmed milk also has a similar effect, especially in the early stages of the disease. It is best to reduce the intake of full-fat cheese, yogurt, butter, and cream. Instead, look for non-dairy options like flax, rice, almond, soy, cashew, or coconut milk.  

Red meat
Regular meat consumption can increase one’s risk of prostate cancer. Heterocyclic amines are a type of carcinogen present in large amounts in red meat. It is best to avoid beef, pork, and other red meats to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Alternatively, one could turn to lean poultry, legumes, nuts, and canned fish.

Sugary foods
Sugary foods do not provide any nutritional value to one’s body. They are high in sugar and glycemic carbohydrates. Sugar-laden foods like cakes, cookies, pies, and sugary drinks can hamper a person’s immunity and lead to other health conditions. Too many sugary foods lead to a shoot in blood sugar levels, impacting the prostate gland. 

Saturated fats
Saturated fats are present in processed foods, baked goods, dairy products, meats, and salad dressings. Saturated fats have a direct link to increased risk of several conditions, including heart conditions, as well as several cancers, including prostate cancer. Reducing the intake of saturated fats is associated with a healthy prostate and overall improved health. 

Sodium
High salt intake is linked to increased urinary tract symptoms associated with prostate cancer. Sodium tends to affect the kidneys and the prostate, so one should avoid excess salt consumption. It is best to follow a low-sodium meal plan and reduce intake of canned foods, cured meats, and frozen bread-based dinners. 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating the right kind of foods is important during the prostate cancer treatment period. Maintaining healthy eating habits will help prostate cancer patients feel better by aiding in relieving the symptoms. Making healthy meal changes can aid a person’s recovery from prostate cancer.