Foods to eat and avoid for managing pulmonary fibrosis

Foods to eat and avoid for managing pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease of the lungs. It occurs when the lung tissue gets damaged and scarred, causing shortness of breath, dry cough, fatigue, chest pain, appetite loss, and other discomforts. Unfortunately, there’s no complete cure for pulmonary fibrosis. However, proper nutrition can help manage the condition. This article lists the foods patients must eat and avoid, along with a few medications, including Esbriet®, as treatment options for pulmonary fibrosis. Foods to eat The following foods can help manage pulmonary fibrosis: Whole grains Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice are packed with fiber. They also have nutrients that can help lower cholesterol levels and decrease inflammation, improving the quality of life among pulmonary fibrosis patients. Lean protein Protein helps strengthen the chest and abdomen muscles, reducing breathing issues. One must choose high-quality lean proteins like skinless chicken breasts, eggs, and fatty fish. Some excellent plant-based protein sources include beans, peas, nuts, legumes, and tofu. Fruits and veggies Fresh fruits and vegetables like carrots, celery, spinach, berries, kiwi, and pineapple are loaded with a slew of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help support lung health and ease pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. Plus, they’re high in fiber and can boost digestion. Foods to avoid Certain foods can worsen pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. These include: Fried foods Fried foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, and potato chips, can cause throat irritation. This may trigger cough and also lead to bloating and gastric disturbances, making breathing difficult. Moreover, fried foods can cause fat gain, which can further worsen breathing problems. Cured meats Cured meats are loaded with nitrates, which act as a preservative and help meats maintain their color. Studies show that nitrates can damage lung tissue and worsen pulmonary fibrosis symptoms. Therefore, one must avoid cured meats like bacon, hot dogs, ham, and salami.
Foods to eat and avoid to manage multiple sclerosis

Foods to eat and avoid to manage multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation in the central nervous system. The immune system attacks the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the CNS, thereby causing inflammation in the myelin sheath, a protective layer around the neurons. While several treatment options are available to manage multiple sclerosis symptoms, eating and avoiding certain foods can also relieve the condition. Foods to eat Turmeric Turmeric is rich in curcumin, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that can modulate cell signaling pathways, preventing autoimmune attacks. Adding anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric to one’s meals helps reduce inflammation, ease symptoms of multiple sclerosis, and prevent disease progression. Ginger Ginger contains 10-gingerol, an anti-inflammatory compound that regulates B cell-related immune responses. This helps manage multiple sclerosis symptoms. It reduces inflammation around the nerves and muscles, which causes stiffness and physical pain associated with the condition. Vitamin D-rich foods like eggs Fortified orange juice, mushrooms, salmon, tuna, eggs, and cereals are rich in vitamin D. Calciferol or ergocalciferol, an active form of vitamin D, is synthesized by the body. It circulates as a hormone, thereby reducing inflammation in the central nervous system. Research has shown that relapse rates decreased in patients with the condition after taking a higher dosage of vitamin D. Foods to avoid Foods with saturated fats like butter Foods such as marbled meat, butter, cheese, and high-fat dairy products are rich in saturated fats that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and aggravate multiple sclerosis symptoms. This increased inflammation can stimulate an immune response, thereby worsening the condition. Artificial sugar Cakes, pastries, cookies, and beverages that contain added sugars are low in nutrients and can cause inflammation in the body. They are responsible for the deposition of visceral fat and aggravating other symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Milk The protein present in the milk mimics a component found in the myelin sheath.
5 foods osteoporosis patients must avoid

5 foods osteoporosis patients must avoid

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the bones weaken and degenerate due to the loss of tissues. As a result, they become brittle and are largely vulnerable to pain and fractures, often leading to disability. There are certain food habits that hasten the process of bone degeneration in patients. Give below are five foods to avoid in the meals made for individuals suffering from osteoporosis plus certain medications for the condition. 5 Foods Osteoporosis Patients Need to Stay Away From Salt When the concentration of sodium in our blood increases, it leads to excessive loss of calcium through the kidneys, which can worsen the process of bone degeneration during osteoporosis. Thus, it is important to limit the amount of salt we consume or the amount of high-sodium foods we include in our meals. Carbonated beverages It has been observed that excessive consumption of carbonated beverages, such as colas and sodas, may have adverse effects on the bone density and bone health in an individual. These contain phosphorus, which has been linked to causing bone degeneration in people with osteoporosis. Moreover, the refined sugars present in such beverages are also considered harmful for bone health since they they cause excessive excretion of calcium through urine. Red meat Animal meat, especially red meat, is known to be extremely rich in protein. However, these animal-based proteins also contain a large amount of sulfur in it. To account for the higher sulfur quantity, the body compensates by excreting calcium, thus compromising bone density in people with osteoporosis. So, it is beneficial to have plant-based alternatives such as nuts, legumes, etc. Alcohol Alcoholic beverages, such as red wine, can be beneficial for the body only when consumed in moderation. However, excess consumption of spirits can have several adverse effects on the body, including loss of bone mass, decreased bone formation, and a heightened vulnerability to severe fractures.
7 foods that help reduce the risk of cancer

7 foods that help reduce the risk of cancer

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.
5 cities with the highest rates of lung cancer

5 cities with the highest rates of lung cancer

Lung cancer is among the most common causes of cancer-related deaths in our country. While smoking and an unhealthy lifestyle are the major risk factors associated with lung cancer, the disease can also result from breathing poor quality air. Places with a lot of air pollution are therefore known to report more lung cancer cases. In this article, we have listed five cities that have the highest rates of lung cancer. Jefferson County Jefferson County, Kentucky, is one of those places that reports the maximum number of new lung cancer incidents. This city reports approximately 765 new lung cancer cases every year and about 501 lung cancer-related deaths. Marion County Situated in Indiana, Marion County ranks jest below Jefferson County when it comes to lung cancer cases. The county registers approximately 77.2 new cases of lung cancer per 100,000 people every year. It also reports 506 lung cancer deaths per year on average. Cheyenne Cheyenne, Wyoming, was once one of the wealthiest counties of our country and was known for its cattle industry. Today, unfortunately, it ranks among the cities with the most number of cancer patients. The region has a high prevalence of respiratory tract inflammatory diseases, which increases the risk of lung cancer. Besides lung cancer, Cheyenne reports several cases of cancers found in the bronchus, breast, prostate, colon, and rectum. El Paso Also known as the “Six Shooter Capital” of Texas, El Paso is the birthplace of our favorite cocktail, the margarita. Sadly, many people living in El Paso are active smokers and are thus highly susceptible to lung cancer and other respiratory disorders. Other common cancers observed in El Paso are acute myeloid leukemia and cancers of the oral cavity, stomach, liver, kidney, and renal pelvis. Tulsa While people living in Tulsa, Oklahoma, do not indulge in binge drinking, the city fares poorly in terms of smoking.
3 trigger foods that asthma patients should avoid

3 trigger foods that asthma patients should avoid

There are no foods that can be used to exclusively cure asthma. But there are ways to avoid asthma attacks by paying attention to your meals. The onset of an asthma attack can be discomforting and could make the patient conscious in public places. This is why having a rescue inhaler is important during an outdoor trip. Apart from that, here are certain foods that could trigger an attack in some asthma patients. Dried foods, pickled foods, and alcohol These foods are high in sulfites, which may trigger an unpleasant episode of asthma. Besides these foods, alcohol and wine (especially white wine) contain high amounts of sulfites that could be an irritant for asthma patients. Usually, this compound is found in foods and beverages with a long shelf life. This also includes onions and garlic. Teas, coffees, and spicy foods Tea, coffee, and spicy foods contain salicylates. An asthma patient can develop intolerance towards salicylates, regardless of whether it comes from a natural or artificial source. One will have to eliminate certain foods from their daily meals to find out exactly which foods are causing an intolerance. Beans, cabbage, and fried foods These foods can lead to problems caused by excessive bloating. They are known to increase the pressure on the diaphragm, particularly if one suffers from acid reflux. In turn, this may lead to asthma flare-ups and chest tightness. Hence, it’s best to stay away from such foods. Avoiding certain foods can help in alleviating asthma symptoms. But in certain cases, doctors are likely to prescribe medications to help manage the symptoms better. Below listed are some medicines that help manage asthma symptoms. FASENRA (benralizumab) This is a prescription medication administered in the form of a subcutaneous injection. It is used with other asthma medicines to keep the symptoms in check. FASENRA is prescribed for those aged 12 and above.
Bladder control – Foods to avoid and medication

Bladder control – Foods to avoid and medication

Nutrition plays an essential role in overall health and helps in reducing symptoms associated with overactive bladder. Statistics suggest that more than 30% of women in the country have bladder control issues. While there are medications that can help manage the condition, changes in your food regime can help prevent the condition as well. Read on to know more about the foods to avoid and the medication options to manage bladder control issues. Foods to avoid Caffeine Caffeine products such as coffee, tea, energy drinks, and carbonated drinks are some of the primary triggers that can be counterproductive for bladder control. This is because they have a diuretic effect, which means they worsen bladder control by promoting frequent urination. Alcohol Like caffeine, alcohol is also believed to have a diuretic effect as well, aggravating bladder control issues. It increases the pressure in the detrusor muscles, reducing the control over natural signals indicating the brain to empty the bladder. So, an occasional indulgence in wine or beer may not harm, but binging on hard liquor can affect bladder control. Spicy foods Bladder-related issues such as bladder leakage are typically seen more in women. Bladder leakage can also be greatly affected by spicy foods that contain chili powder, peppers, horseradish, and other pungent spices. They worsen bladder control by irritating the inner lining of the bladder and increasing the urge to urinate. Moreover, consuming spicy foods also increase the tendency to drink more water, further worsening urinary incontinence. Artificial sweeteners Artificial sweeteners can also worsen bladder control as they contain compounds that can make the bladder muscles hyperactive. This increases the risk of suffering from urinary tract infections, especially in women due to frequent urination. This can make urinary incontinence difficult to control. Medications These food regime changes can help manage bladder control.
High-risk cancer foods to avoid

High-risk cancer foods to avoid

A healthy diet is one of the essentials of living an illness-free lifestyle, including lowering your risk of cancer. Understanding nutrition is essential if you are either managing this illness or trying to avoid it. Speak to a doctor in detail to know why these following foods should be avoided to reduce the risk of cancer. If you are managing your symptoms, you can also read about immunotherapy that may be helpful for your recovery. Processed meats These are primarily red meats like hot dogs, salami, sausage, corned beef, beef jerky, and ham. These meats are preserved using smoke, curing, salting, and canning and these processes can create carcinogens in the food. Several reviews suggest that over-consumption of processed meat is related to breast, stomach, and colorectal cancer. Fried foods According to research, a compound called acrylamide is formed when starchy ingredients are cooked in high temperatures, and this compound is responsible for damaging DNA and causing the death of cells. As over-consumption of fried foods can lead to obesity and risk of diabetes, it also increases oxidative stress in the body. These unhealthy reactions in the body may increase the risk of cancer. Alcohol The liver in the body breaks down alcohol into a compound called acetaldehyde. This compound is carcinogenic, and it promotes oxidative stress and damage to the body’s DNA. When such a reaction occurs in the body, it weakens the immune system, making it difficult to kill any cancerous cells in the body. Studies suggest that women who drink too much alcohol are at high risk of getting estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Immunotherapy treatment This is a type of therapy that works with the immune system to fight cancer cells. A healthy immune system can fight off the infections and diseases in the body, which are major health risks.
Foods to avoid for managing multiple sclerosis

Foods to avoid for managing multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease that affects the central nervous system. It results in the deterioration of myelin, a protective covering around the nerves, disrupting brain-body communication. Although there is no cure for MS yet, patients can manage the disease’s symptoms and discomforts with the help of lifestyle changes, medications, and targeted treatment. Moreover, a healthy nutrition plan is essential, and eliminating the following foods can help provide further relief. Saturated and trans fat Both saturated and trans fats are bad for MS. Saturated fats like coconut oil, palm oil, dairy fats, and meat fats can increase cholesterol levels. And since MS patients are at risk of cardiovascular problems, high cholesterol raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. Trans fats can have a similar effect and may trigger inflammation of blood vessels. These fats are mainly found in baked goods and confectionaries as they are made with hydrogenated vegetable oils and shortening. Foods rich in sugar and salt Research studies say that increased sodium levels in the body can lead to a relapse of MS symptoms. It also increases the risk of high blood pressure, leading to significant circulatory problems if left unchecked. On the other hand, sugar contributes to unhealthy weight gain, which can put a lot of strain on the heart and body. It can even lead to fatigue, one of the more common MS symptoms. Moreover, both sugar and salt are inflammatory foods and should hence be used in moderation. Refined grains Refined grains are stripped of all essential nutrients and minerals that the body requires for proper functioning, adding no nutritional value. Moreover, doctors recommend a high-fiber food regime for MS. So, whole grains are better substitutes for refined white rice, white pasta, white bread, etc. Fiber-rich foods help relieve the effects of constipation, one of the common symptoms among MS patients.
Tips, home remedies, and foods to manage dry eyes

Tips, home remedies, and foods to manage dry eyes

Dry eye syndrome is a condition characterized by the tear glands not producing adequate fluid to keep the eyes lubricated. This condition can lead to symptoms such as scratchy eyes, eye fatigue, heavy eyelids, pain, light sensitivity, and even blurred vision. These can disrupt one’s daily schedule and be very painful, causing further distress. This article shares some home remedies that one can try to relieve the symptoms of dry eyes. 5 Tips and Home Remedies to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome Use warm compresses Warm compresses basically stimulate the tear glands to promote the production of tears. This can be a regular practice and can provide great relief when done every day. Have a good night’s sleep Lack of sleep can instigate dry eyes and eye fatigue in people who would not have the condition otherwise. It is recommended to take short breaks between screen time and get some shut-eye. Use a humidifier People who reside in a region that is dominated by dry and cold weather must invest in a humidifier for it retains the moisture in the air and helps relieve the discomfort caused by the dry weather. Stay hydrated An adequate intake of water is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for patients with dry eye syndrome. Having enough water can further help to keep the eyes lubricated, which helps in soothing the dry eye symptoms. Use eye drops or ointments Any over-the-counter eye drops available can help soothe the dry eye syndrome and provide temporary relief. You can also opt for eye drops that induce artificial tears to lubricate the eyes; however, remember to buy the ones without preservatives. Foods to Have for Dry Eye Syndrome Foods that are a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids significantly help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes when eaten over a period of time.
5 effective tips to manage hyperhidrosis

5 effective tips to manage hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that impacts the quality of the everyday life of an individual. Excessive sweating can lead those affected to feel embarrassed, sad, anxious, and angry. To combat these emotional and mental feelings, one can bring some effective changes in everyday life. Mentioned below are some of the lifestyle tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine to cope with hyperhidrosis. Let’s have a look at some. Exercise Working out is a great way to help reduce stress and maintain physical health. People with hyperhidrosis should not feel embarrassed while working out, as it is normal for them to sweat during intense physical workouts. Also, regular exercise will help you keep your body in shape and help reduce sweat in normal situations. Wear light and breathable clothing Out of the many lifestyle tips for hyperhidrosis, this one is about paying attention to what you wear. Natural fibers like cotton and linen will help keep sweat to a minimum. Thick fabrics like flannel can trap sweat which can worsen your sweating. People with hyperhidrosis should wear light and breathable fabrics, which can reduce the body temperature, and in turn, stop sweat. Stay hydrated It is important for people with hyperhidrosis to maintain an adequate level of hydration. Sweating leads to the loss of electrolytes from your body. It is generally recommended to drink eight glasses of water a day; however, people with hyperhidrosis may need to drink more. Diet A change in diet can help reduce sweat levels. Certain foods and drinks can trigger sweat production. Eliminating or limiting them from your diet can help in sweat reduction. Limit the consumption of spicy food, highly processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol, which are some foods that can cause excessive sweating. Keep your feet dry You should wear sandals that allow easy air circulation in your feet, preventing them from sweating.
Foods to avoid for managing melanoma symptoms

Foods to avoid for managing melanoma symptoms

Melanoma is a skin cancer that develops when melanocytes — cells that give our skin its color — grow out of control. If left undetected and untreated, the disease can spread to other parts of the body. While melanoma can be cured, patients must follow a healthy nutrition plan for a better prognosis. This article lists the foods one must avoid with melanoma and other skin cancers, along with suitable medications like OPDIVO®. Coffee Though coffee is an excellent beverage for keeping one awake during those long office hours, it is harmful to those with melanoma. Coffee contains caffeine, a property known to cause dehydration. And since cancer treatments require the patient to be hydrated all the time, patients must stay away from the beverage as far as possible. Processed and red meats The WHO has classified red meats (beef, pork, lamb, etc.) and processed meats (ham, bacon, frankfurters, salami, etc.) as Group 1 carcinogens. This is because they contain specific chemicals, both naturally occurring or artificial, that can lead to different cancers and worsen the symptoms. Desserts and sweets As tasty as they are, desserts and sweets do not provide much nutritional value to the human body. Moreover, having too many sugar-rich foods can reduce the effect of healthy foods that can fight cancers. So, a person with melanoma must avoid or cut down on sweets and candies to improve their overall strength. Apart from steering clear of the foods listed above, melanoma patients can consider using the following medications after consulting a doctor: OPDIVO® (nivolumab) OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is a prescription medication for treating melanoma when skin cancer has spread (advanced melanoma) and cannot be removed by surgery. In addition, OPDIVO® Rx medication also provides relief to those with lung, bladder, and kidney cancer. YERVOY® (ipilimumab) YERVOY® (ipilimumab) is another prescription medication used for melanoma relief in adults and kids below 12.