7 foods that help reduce the risk of cancer

7 foods that help reduce the risk of cancer
health

In a world where most ready-to-eat meals contain excess fats and calories, finding a balance becomes necessary. The food one consumes helps maintain overall health, reduces the risk of a disease, and hastens the recovery process. This is particularly true in the case of cancer. While no food can cure cancer, intake of certain vegetables, such as the ones given below, may reduce its risk. This article additionally touches upon options for cancer treatment.

7 Foods That Help Reduce the Risk of Cancer

Berries
Berries like blackberries, mulberries, strawberries, and blueberries are rich sources of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and manganese. They also contain a high amount of antioxidants, including ellagic acid, gallic acid, and chlorogenic acid, and have anti-cancer properties.

Garlic
Garlic is a vegetable that contains an active compound called allicin. One study concluded that people who ate a large number of allicin-rich vegetables such as garlic, onions, leeks, and shallots had a lower risk of stomach cancer.

Tomato
According to some experts, this fruit is a cancer-fighting superfood. Tomatoes contain lycopene, which is an antioxidant phytochemical that keeps away heart diseases. They are, additionally, a rich source of vitamin A, C, and E, all nutrients that help reduce the risk of cancer.

Grapes
Grapes and other citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges decrease the risk of cancer, especially of the digestive and upper respiratory tract. They are also known to reduce the risk of pancreatic and stomach cancer.

Broccoli
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are known for having potent anti-cancer properties. They contain glucosinolates, which produce protective enzymes when they pass through the digestive system. These enzymes help the body to detoxify harmful chemicals that could lower cancer risk.

Apples
Each slice of an apple contains a high amount of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. These are beneficial in cancer and its recovery. Apples also contain potassium, which helps prevent fluid retention, a common side effect of chemotherapy.

Carrots
Carrots are full of vitamin A, vitamin K, and calcium. They are a good source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that shields cell membranes from toxin damage. Plus, carrots are believed to slow the growth of cancer cells.

Treatment Options for Cancer
Several studies are ongoing to find the right treatment for every type of cancer. Ibrutinib is one such medicine that is used to treat mantle cell lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and small lymphocytic lymphoma. It works by blocking the growth of abnormal protein that leads to the multiplication of cancer cells.

Flax seeds are believed to contain potent cancer-fighting compounds like alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), lignans, and phytoestrogens. Studies indicate these compounds improve survival rates among some patients by stopping certain tumors from spreading and causing cell damage. The ALA also helps counter inflammation linked to the progression of many cancers.

Also, cancer screenings are a crucial part of the treatment to manage the progression of the disease. Doctors generally suggest sensitive screening tests like a colonoscopy for colon cancer. A colonoscopy provides a complete view of the rectum allowing proctologists and oncologists to identify the extent of the spread depending on the cancer stage. Alternatively, for breast cancer, doctors suggest BRCA gene testing analysis to identify any harmful changes in mutations linked to the progression of breast cancer.

Xofigo® is an injectable treatment option for prostate cancer patients. It is used for patients in advanced stages of the condition and those who fail to respond positively to traditional treatment options like surgery or hormonal treatment. Xofigo® radium 223 cancer treatment works because of the radioactive compound radium 223, which plays the role of a radiotherapeutic agent that destroys cancer cells. It can only be used when cancer has spread to the bones of the patient and nowhere else. A healthcare professional can administer the injection, and it is generally injected once every four weeks in six doses.

Another cancer treatment method is the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy. It is a method wherein the immune cells are genetically modified in a lab so they can attack the cancer cells.

Carfilzomib is another medicine used to reduce or completely stop the growth of cancer cells. It is used for treating patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Carfilzomib can be used alone or in a combination with daratumumab and dexamethasone; lenalidomide and dexamethasone; or only with dexamethasone. It is available in powder form that is to be mixed with liquid and injected intravenously. It is typically administered over a period of 10 to 30 minutes. This medication may be given for two consecutive days every week for a period of three weeks, or it can be administered once a week over a period of three weeks.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that develops in plasma cells—white blood cells that fight infections by making antibodies. While the condition has no cure, a novel course called B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is receiving attention. BCMA is a protein that promotes B-cell survival, which helps inhibit cancerous growth. Doctors are in the process of developing therapies and treatments to target the BCMA protein for managing multiple myeloma.

Fostamatinib, a spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor, manages chronic immune thrombocytopenia. It is being investigated for  Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) as well. It is currently sold under brand name Tavalisse® and works by increasing blood platelets. This inhibitor is given after other treatments have failed. Patients should take Tavalisse® as prescribed by the doctor. Potential side effects include high blood pressure, liver problems, diarrhea, and infections.

It is believed that messenger RNA, or mRNA, could be the next frontier as a more effective cancer therapy. mRNA carries specific signals to the cells, specifically dendritic cells, that instruct them into producing proteins and strengthening the immune system to kill the invading host cells, such as cancer cells. Numerous clinical trials have been carried out to treat pancreatic, colorectal, and melanoma cancer through this form of immunotherapy.

The human body naturally produces antibodies to fight off disease-causing organisms. Monoclonal antibodies are biological antibodies that are prepared in labs and often used as a targeted therapy for cancer patients. They are marked to target specific cells in the body, minimizing harm to healthy cells. These lab-produced monoclonal antibodies mimic the immune system’s response to unwanted cells and destroy them by blocking their growth, destroying cell membranes, flagging cancer cells, and attacking them.

XTANDI (enzalutamide) is a recommended novel hormone therapy for prostate cancer. It is used for treating three types of advanced prostate cancer: metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC), non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC), and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). XTANDI is an FDA-approved treatment option and is used orally once daily in either four 40 mg or two 80 mg dosages. It can be had with or without food.

Genetic testing can be used to ascertain cancer presence if one is genetically predisposed to the condition or has undergone cancer treatment at a younger age. It helps assess the gene mutation in the body. A healthcare expert tests an individual’s DNA by collecting cells at a clinic or from the individual’s home. The sample helps identify the signs of cancer development and draw an adequate treatment plan.

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Home remedies and treatment options for mouth and teeth problems

Home remedies and treatment options for mouth and teeth problems

The human body has many essential body parts, and one of the most crucial parts of the body is the mouth. It entails a lot of different functions such as: Take in food as well as drinks Breathe in the air around It helps with kick-starting the process of digestion as the teeth chew the food you eat Helps in speaking and singing Since there are many different mouth and teeth problems, here are some of the most common home remedies you can adopt to cure them. Home remedies for toothache There are many home remedies that you can adopt to get rid of toothache: Saltwater rinse To use a saltwater rinse, we recommend you mix half a teaspoon of salt into a warm water glass and use it as mouthwash regularly. Cold compress Applying a cold compress to the area of a toothache can help in reducing the pain. When you apply a cold compress, the blood vessels of that particular area are constricted. Hence, it is highly advisable to go for it. Hydrogen peroxide rinse A hydrogen peroxide rinse also helps in relieving pain as well as inflammation. It not only kills bacteria but also reduces plaque and then starts healing bleeding gums. Garlic Garlic has been used for medicinal properties since time immemorial. It not only kills harmful bacteria but can also help in relieving pain. To use this remedy, you crush a garlic clove and then use it to create a paste to the affected area. Peppermint tea bags Peppermint tea can be used for numbing pain and then for soothing sensitive gums. To do this particular, allow an old used tea bag to cool down before you apply it to the affected area. Some other remedies that you can use as remedies include the following:
4 tips to manage the symptoms of menopause

4 tips to manage the symptoms of menopause

Menopause is diagnosed when a woman doesn’t menstruate for 12 months at a stretch, and it is the end of a woman’s fertility and menstrual cycles. Natural menopause occurs when the ovaries start showing signs of reduced production of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. On the other hand, induced menopause is often a result of the surgical removal of the ovaries to treat a medical condition or the ovaries getting damaged due to the consumption of certain medications or exposure to harmful radiation. Menopause can lead to pain and discomfort, along with several other symptoms, but following some simple tips can help women reduce the discomfort and pain associated with menopause: Maintain a stable weight Women tend to gain weight during menopause due to the hormonal changes that their bodies undergo, and it can also happen due to aging, genetics, or lifestyle choices. Weight gain or the accumulating fat content in the body makes women susceptible to developing heart diseases and other conditions like diabetes. The increased weight also aggravates the symptoms of menopause and increases the risk of joint conditions like osteoporosis. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the symptoms and protects the body against several harmful diseases. Avoid the consumption of trigger foods Trigger foods are the foods that cause the urge to eat more and can lead to an increase in the symptoms of menopause. These include mood swings, hot flashes, and night sweats. The most common trigger foods include alcoholic beverages, caffeinated drinks, junk food, fried food, and baked goods like brownies, donuts, pastry, and cookies. Also, women need to be mentally aware of the foods that are worsening their symptoms and stay away from them. Follow a regular workout schedule Regular exercise is a must among women during the onset of menopause to help manage the symptoms effectively.
Foods one should eat to maintain kidneys and liver health

Foods one should eat to maintain kidneys and liver health

The human body has a system of multiple inter-related processes. The kidneys and liver are crucial organs, as these cleanse your body of toxins. Any disorder or infection in these organs may interfere with the other bodily processes. One needs to be aware of certain remedies and foods that help keep these organs in peak shape. For the kidney Here are three home remedies and foods that may be beneficial to treat kidney infections: Drink water and cranberry juice If one wants relief from kidney infections, it is vital to flush out harmful bacteria. Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily is helpful. Additionally, malic, quinic, and citric acids found in cranberry juice are also beneficial to relieve infections in the urinary tract. Apply warm and moist heat To soothe irritated nerves and reduce pain, using a warm water bottle or heating pad to the affected areas is beneficial. One must cover the heated bottle with a cloth to avoid burns. Apply the heat compress for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink green tea Green tea extract is known to have an antibacterial effect on bacterial strains that cause urinary tract infections. Consuming green tea may be beneficial to alleviate the discomfort caused due to kidney infections. While these remedies may be beneficial, it is essential to seek expert guidance to help relieve pain due to severe symptoms. Moreover, giving the body adequate rest is also helpful and results in relief from the discomfort. For the liver Fatty liver disease may be caused due to excess alcohol consumption. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may occur if someone is obese or suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure, or cholesterol. Lifestyle and diet changes are essential to seek relief from this condition. Here are three home treatments and foods that may be beneficial for the liver:
Improving your mental health at home

Improving your mental health at home

While your physical well-being is important, keeping your mind healthy is a must. If you are suffering from anxiety, stress, or any other brain disorder, it will reflect in your physical health too. People who are suffering from poor mental health exhibit symptoms like hypertension, an abnormal increase in the rate of the heartbeat, or a sharp pain in the chest. You must make an effort to enhance your mental health on a daily basis. Home activities for improving mental health Exercise Apart from keeping your body fit, exercise helps in improving your mental health too. It is a very effective way to let go of nervousness and all the anxiety that has accumulated in your body as a bundle of negative energy. You do not have to indulge in rigorous exercise. Doing some simple exercises at home should work as a good stress-buster. Yoga, pilates, cycling, or swimming, pick an exercise of your choice and make it a point to do a bit of it every day. The trick lies in being regular and disciplined with whatever you choose to do. Meditation Most people lead such busy lives that they find it difficult to even stop for a moment to catch their breath. The kind of lifestyle we lead does not give us enough time to pause, look within, and introspect. Thus, it is very important to carve out some time from your busy schedule and meditate for a while every day. It is, perhaps, the most important relaxation technique known to mankind and one which helps you cleanse your mind off all the accumulating stress, anxiety, and other forms of negativity. Meditation is also recommended for people who are suffering from mood swings. Start writing Writing is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress. You might not think yourself to be very good with words, but every human being feels the need to express himself or herself in one way or the other.
Multiple sclerosis – what are the treatment options

Multiple sclerosis – what are the treatment options

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a kind of condition in which the immune system does not respond as it should. It gets directed against the working of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS entails optic nerves, spinal cord, and the brain. It is meant to work in tandem with the immune system. However, when MS occurs, it fails to do so. Let’s take a look at some of the treatment options for multiple sclerosis. Treatment for multiple sclerosis Depending on the type, here are the common treatments for multiple sclerosis:   There is no particular cause for multiple sclerosis. As a result, the treatment focuses on recovering fast after an attack rather than getting to the root. Here are the common measures:  Corticosteroids, such as intravenous methylprednisolone and oral prednisone Plasmapheresis   Modifying progress To deal with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, ocrelizumab is usually recommended. It is the only FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy available. For particular types of multiple sclerosis, where it keeps recurring, the doctor may use different treatments, depending on the intensity of the condition. Some of the common treatments for these include:  Beta interferons Glatiramer acetate Fingolimod Dimethyl Fumarate Teriflunomide Siponimod Some of the other treatments for the signs and symptoms of MS include:  Physical therapy Muscle relaxants Medicines used to reduce tiredness Medicines to help increase walking speed Home remedies for multiple sclerosis There are plenty of other treatments available to help relieve the symptoms and deal with problems related to multiple sclerosis. Consume the following: Vitamin A Vitamin A has proven to show results in delaying macular degeneration associated with age. It also consists of antioxidants, which can be helpful people with multiple sclerosis.  Vitamin B-1 Vitamin B-1 is also known as thiamin. It helps in the proper functioning of the brain and is also essential for nerve, muscle, heart function, and metabolism.
Treatment options and home remedies for gout

Treatment options and home remedies for gout

Uric acid crystals result in gout. It is an inflammatory condition that usually affects men as a type of arthritis. It causes severe joint pain around the knees, feet, and ankles. However, there are certain measures that one can take for gout treatment. We will discuss these as well as home remedies in this article. Types of medications Some medicines may be prescribed to the patient on a regular basis; these can help to alleviate the symptoms of this condition: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications These medications are known to reduce the duration of the attack. If one takes them within the first twenty-four hours, then it really helps. They are usually prescribed to reduce the inflammation and relieve the pain. Corticosteroids These types of medications are usually administered orally or may even be injected into the body. They not only help in the reduction of the swelling but can also combat inflammation. In some cases, the doctor may also inject a hormone known as an adrenocorticotropic hormone to help the body produce corticosteroids naturally. The doctor may also give a combination of both at different times to help with alleviating the symptoms. Colchicine Colchicine is derived from a plant, which has been used to reduce the symptoms of gout for over 2,000 years. It helps to reduce pain and swelling. However, this may come with a specific side effect such as abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Reducing uric acid levels The most ideal way to treat gout is by controlling uric acid levels in the body. Once they are controlled, the chances of a gout attack reduce considerably. The following medications can be consumed for reducing uric acid levels: Probenecid Allopurinol Lesinurad Febuxostat Pegloticase In most cases, the doctor will wait until the most recent gout attack before he goes on to prescribe a dosage of the aforementioned medications.