Cholesterol is a naturally-produced essential fatty substance in the body. The type of fat found in the blood helps the body build healthy cells, thereby ensuring it functions smoothly. However, excess cholesterol is harmful as it can lead to fatty deposits in the blood vessels, narrow or clog the arteries and increase the risk of heart conditions. Below are six foods that help lower cholesterol levels and also improve heart health. 6 superfoods that help lower cholesterol levels Apples Apples are rich in a type of soluble fiber called pectin that brings down cholesterol levels by about 10 percent. It also helps reduce triglycerides, which is a type of fat in the blood. In addition to their fibrous content, apples also contain polyphenols, which could help control cholesterol levels. Avocados Avocado contains monounsaturated fatty acids or MUFAs, which keep the cholesterol levels in check and help in keeping the heart healthy. This fruit contains about 10 grams of fiber. You can pair it with whole grain, pumpernickel, or rye toast to make it even more fibrous. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle some herbs like oregano for extra flavor. Dark chocolate Cocoa in dark chocolates contains flavonoids that control blood pressure levels and lower cholesterol. However, dark chocolates contain sugar and fats, so it is advisable to opt for unsweetened variants and have them in limited quantities. Fatty fish Having salmon, mackerel, and sardines regularly helps prevent serious heart conditions. The omega-3 fats in the fish are full of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and polyunsaturated fats that prevent cholesterol from shooting up and decrease triglycerides in the bloodstream. This maintains heart health.  Nuts and seeds Almonds, walnuts, cashew, hazelnuts, pistachio, peanuts, pecans, and other varieties of seeds are full of vitamin E, protein, magnesium, and potassium that lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart ailments.

Eczema, scientifically known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that leads to dry and itchy skin on the body. It is usually caused by inflammation. One can tackle this condition’s symptoms by eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones. The wrong foods can often trigger flares and worsen the condition. Read on to learn more about the foods that should be eliminated from your meals if you have eczema. Cow’s milk Cow’s milk is one of the most common eczema triggers in children. In rare cases, it can also cause flares in adults. However, completely removing milk and dairy products from a child’s meals can lead to vitamin and other deficiencies. Instead, this food should be avoided only in cases of severe eczema. Doctors can also suggest food substitutes for cow’s milk. Eggs Eggs are commonly known as eczema triggers in both adults and children. While the reason behind this is unknown, studies show that almost 70% of those who have eczema are allergic to eggs. Aside from this, long-term consumption of raw eggs can lead to biotin deficiency, triggering eczema. Soy Soy and soy products are rich in amines that can trigger eczema. Individuals suffering from eczema can avoid soy by reading the labels carefully because soy is present in many foods including chocolate and tea. Tomatoes Those suffering from eczema should avoid tomatoes and foods that contain tomatoes. Tomatoes are rich in salicylates, amines, and natural MSG. All these chemicals are known to trigger an eczema flare. Peanuts Peanut is one of the most common allergens across the globe. It is so common that people with eczema are more likely to develop a peanut allergy. It is crucial to avoid peanuts and foods containing peanuts to prevent an eczema flare-up. Oranges, kiwis, and grapes All three fruits are highly acidic and are rich sources of salicylates and amines.

Having 20/20 vision or poor eyesight is not in one’s control. Any changes in eyesight are predominantly dependent on one’s genetics. Not to mention, age can also play a role in worsening one’s vision. But, experts also believe that many everyday habits could be a factor in this deterioration. In this article, we focus on understanding these habits, how they harm us and discuss ways to tackle them. Avoiding eye protection One of the biggest causes of eye and eyesight damage is the lack of proper eye protection when doing certain tasks. There are many everyday tasks where dangerous elements can enter the eye. The only way to prevent eye damage in such cases is to use proper safety sunglasses. Excessive screen time These days we rely on technology for even the most simple task. This has led to an increase in screen time for almost all professions. Not to mention, screens are also used in personal aspects. We love watching TV and browsing the Internet on our phones. But, all this screen time can have an adverse effect on one’s eyes. Staring at screens can make us blink less, which eventually dries out our eyes. Dry eyes tend to become red and itchy, affecting eyesight in the long run. While avoiding screens completely may not be a feasible option, the trick is to take breaks. It is also essential to avoid staring at screens at night as it can also lead to eyestrain and damage your sleep cycle. Not eating healthy food Our eyes need various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to function properly. This makes it very crucial to eat proper, balanced, and healthy meals throughout the day. Foods with vitamin C, A, E, and omega-3 fatty acids are a must-have. Don’t skip out on green leafy veggies. Also, keep reminders to drink water as dehydration can lead to dry, red, and itchy eyes.

Lung conditions affect a lot of people across the globe. In most cases, people tackle these conditions and diseases with various treatments. But, aside from treatments, individuals can fight these ailments and promote lung health with the help of food. Certain foods can strengthen the lungs and keep symptoms at bay. But, some can aggravate the condition, negatively impacting lung health, increasing the risk of lung diseases. Read to know foods that you should avoid. Bread Bread is one of the foods that can contribute to poor lung health. Bread is made of simple carbohydrates such as refined flour and sugar. These foods are known to affect the overall health of the body. They can even have a negative impact on lung health. This is because these foods are harder to break down and require the body to work harder to metabolize. Foods that are low in carbohydrates are less taxing on the body. They also produce less carbon dioxide in the body, which bodes well for those with existing lung conditions. To promote better lung health, individuals can opt for complex carbohydrates instead. Chips Processed foods, in general, are not good for the overall health of the body. They are packed with saturated fats, preservatives, and other harmful food additives. Processed foods such as potato chips can wreak havoc on your lung health. The salt in these foods contributes to increased blood pressure. It can also increase water retention in the body, which can eventually leak fluids into the lungs and make it difficult to breathe. Processed foods also negatively affect the cardiovascular system and heart. Carbonated beverages Carbonated beverages are also filled with sugar, carbohydrates, and carbonation. All these elements can contribute to an increase in weight and also result in bloating. Not to mention, bloating or the development of gas in the digestive system can lead to an increase in pressure on the lungs.

Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative condition that affects the movement of the individual. It affects the brain and the nervous system and leads to symptoms such as uncontrolled movement, stiffness, tremors, and loss of balance and coordination. Approximately one million people in the country have Parkinson’s disease. Read on to learn more about the effective ways to manage this condition. Here are the treatment options, foods to eat and avoid, and lifestyle changes to manage Parkinson’s. Treatment options Although Parkinson’s disease is not curable, there are many treatment options. These help slow down the progression of this degenerative condition and tackle the various signs and symptoms. Here are some of the common treatment options prescribed for Parkinson’s disease: Levodopa One of the most potent treatment options for Parkinson’s disease is levodopa. It can often cause nausea and vomiting. This is why it is usually prescribed or available in combination with carbidopa. Levodopa is a precursor of dopamine, and it is used to control the bradykinetic symptoms that affect movement. Carbidopa Carbidopa is a class of treatments called decarboxylase inhibitors. It focuses on preventing the breakdown of levodopa into dopamine before it reaches the brain. RYTARY® RYTARY® is an extended-release carbidopa/levodopa oral capsule. It contains beads of carbidopa and levodopa that dissolve and get absorbed at different rates. Common side effects include nausea, confusion, and dyskinesia. ONGENTYS® ONGENTYS® (opicapone) is a prescription treatment that is used to manage “down” or “off” periods with Parkinson’s disease. It is prescribed in combination with levodopa and carbidopa. It is a once-a-day capsule. Serious side effects include falling asleep during activities, low blood pressure, sudden movements, hallucinations, and unusual urges. The most common side effects include constipation. Meal plans Aside from treatment, eating the right foods can help patients manage their symptoms to a certain extent.

Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably. There are two main types of lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) makes up about 80% to 85% of all lung cancer cases and is slow-growing with a better prognosis. Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) makes up for around 10% to 15% of lung cancer cases and spread rapidly. Some treatment options, foods, and lifestyle changes that can help manage lung cancer are discussed below: Know the treatment options One of the most important aspects of cancer treatment is choosing the right treatment options. When it comes to lung cancer, individuals usually opt for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or targeted therapy. GAVRETO (pralsetinib) is a prescription treatment option for certain cancers including NSCLC. It is mainly prescribed for the treatment of cancers that are caused due to the abnormal rearranged during transfection (RET) gene. These include NSCLC in adults and medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) in adults and children over the age of 12 years. GAVRETO is also a treatment option for cancer that has spread to other parts of the body beyond the lungs. However, GAVRETO has a range of side effects that can be mild or severe. Some common side effects include constipation, fatigue, diarrhea, and musculoskeletal pain while more severe side effects include lung disease, hypertension, tumor lysis syndrome, and lowered wound healing abilities. The healthcare practitioner will be able to determine which mode of treatment works best based on the stage and type of lung cancer. Eat the right foods While treatment can help tackle NSCLC and SCLC, certain foods can help improve lung function. Peppers are known to be rich sources of vitamin C, which acts as a powerful antioxidant and improves lung health. Turmeric also has antioxidant properties and contains curcumin, which has been found to be beneficial to lung function.

Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses a multitude of symptoms and health conditions. It can impact a patient’s memory and cognitive functioning. Statistics provided by the World Health Organization suggest that there are more than 55 million dementia patients worldwide. Symptoms can differ from one patient to another; however, some warning signs of dementia remain common irrespective of its cause. It is more commonly seen in patients above 60 years. Short-term memory changes Issues with one’s memory are the most common and noticeable signs of dementia. These subtle changes observed in patients are often associated with their short-term memory. These changes include forgetting their tasks and the placement of items. Problem finding the right words Problem with communication of thoughts or the inability to find the right words to express one’s thoughts is a common sign of dementia. This can lead to stopping in the middle of a sentence. Conversing with dementia patients, therefore, takes a longer time. Mood change The slightest of things can cause mood changes in dementia patients. Differences in their surroundings, disruption of routine, inability to find items, and more can make them anxious, upset, agitated, or give rise to other emotions. It is one of the early warning signs of dementia. Confusion Dementia patients are prone to confusion. Their poor memory causes them to forget landmarks, people, events of the day, and more. The loss of their belongings and the inability to recognize their surroundings are some of the many reasons that can give rise to confusion. Problem completing tasks Change in the person’s ability to carry or complete a task can also be a warning sign for dementia. These can involve day-to-day tasks that were once easily accomplished. New activities can be daunting for the patient. Difficulty accepting change A typical early sign observed in patients with dementia is their inability to accept change.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder that progresses well into adulthood. ADHD mainly affects a patient’s ability to pay attention, control their impulsiveness, or avoid being extremely overactive. But it is one of the few neurodevelopmental disorders that can be treated with prescriptions, therapy, and even a combination of natural remedies and the following lifestyle changes. Here are the best suggested natural treatments for ADHD. Behavioral therapy Therapists can help teach how one can deal with mood changes and improve the overall outlook. Suggestions include creating a productive routine, learning to organize, and better managing distractions. All this can be done by bringing about a discipline in lifestyle. Exploring new opportunities, setting goals, and managing expectations can enforce positive thinking. Monitor foods and avoid allergens There are many substances found in processed foods that have been linked to increased hyperactivity among young children. It is advisable to avoid foods and beverages that are laced with artificial coloring or flavoring. In addition, immediate medical attention is advisable if the patient shows symptoms of food allergies. Chemical preservatives, certain dairy products, and even natural fruits/vegetables containing salicylates are trigger allergens to avoid with ADHD. Physical activity Exercising or any form of physical activity can help the body lower cortisol levels and decrease stress. Also, exercising helps the body release endorphins, commonly known as feel-good hormones, crucial for regulating mood and preventing trigger symptoms linked to ADHD. Physical activity also improves concentration and focus, enabling patients to better navigate daily tasks without getting distracted or highly frustrated. Alternative therapies Research suggests meditation techniques can further help boost mood, bring about discipline, and help increase awareness. Meditation and deep breathing can help the mind and body unite and allows a person to feel more conscious and connected with oneself.

Muscle pain, also known as myalgia, can affect the entire body or specific regions. Almost everyone experiences such pain at some point in their life. While it can be treated, knowing the cause is essential to develop a treatment plan. The pain could be triggered by various factors, including injury, trauma, and even severe diseases or infections. Read on to learn about the five most common health conditions that may cause muscle pain. Lupus Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain throughout the body. Muscle aches and pains are widespread in people with the condition. It is usually the first symptom that causes people to seek diagnosis and treatment. When lupus and muscle ache exist together, it is called lupus myositis. Patients may experience severe pain and inflammation in their shoulders, upper arms, hips, and thighs. This can make it difficult for them to get up from a chair, climb stairs, or brush their hair. Although muscles do not weaken in lupus, the pain can be intense. Multiple sclerosis This is an autoimmune disease that damages the nerves in the body. Sometimes, it affects the nerves that control muscle movement, causing acute pain. The muscles usually become stiff or weak and trigger painful muscle contractions. This pain usually occurs in the arms and legs, affecting the ability to sit, stand, walk, or move about easily. Myofascial pain syndrome This is a chronic disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system. It can impact either a single muscle or a muscle group. Some people with myofascial pain syndrome experience muscle pain occasionally, while the problem persists for others. The pain appears in specific trigger points in the body that usually develop in the upper back, neck, or shoulder muscles. It gets worse when the affected muscle is stretched or strained.

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that leads to swelling in the small intestine resulting in problems like diarrhea and stomach pain. The swelling makes it tougher for the body to absorb the nutrients in food. Certain foods can also trigger the symptoms and lead to flare-ups; the triggers can differ from person to person. Nevertheless, here are a few common foods that should be avoided to prevent worsening Crohn’s disease symptoms. Spicy food For those with Crohn’s disease who love chilies or spicy food, restricting these foods is important to manage the symptoms. This is because certain spices can worsen the pain and other symptoms associated with the condition. Alternatively, one should use mild herbs and natural flavorings such as lemon in limited quantities. Dairy products Many people with Crohn’s disease experience worsening symptoms after consuming dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk. For them, it is better to try milk alternatives, like almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, and oat milk. People with the disease can also try low-fat substitutes like kefir. Deep-fried foods People with Crohn’s are advised to limit their intake of fried and greasy foods as these contain unhealthy fats that may aggravate the symptoms and lead to problems such as loose motion and cramping. This is because foods rich in fat, including heavy sauces, are often not completely absorbed by the small intestine. Seeds and nuts Irrespective of the high nutritional value of these foods, they are not suitable for people with Crohn’s disease as they can cause irritation in the lining of the gut, worsening the symptoms. Seeds and nuts are also hard to digest for people suffering from the disease. Raw fruits and vegetables with skin The health of those with Crohn’s disease may worsen if they have apples or cucumbers along with their skins.

Skin disease can be caused due to a variety of reasons, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, genetic factors, contact with irritants, or even due to a weak immune system. Some skin diseases are mild, while others can cause extreme discomfort and distress and may require specialized treatment. If you are suffering from a skin disease, here are a few things you should avoid to control the spread and intensity of the disease. Avoid using strong soaps, detergents, and shampoos Skin disease can worsen when you wash your body or clothes with strongly scented soaps, detergents, and shampoos. Soaps made with chemicals remove the natural oils from the skin and make it dry and itchy. Fragrance-free, mild soaps and detergents are best, and rinse your body and clothes well. For severe skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis, it is best to avoid using soap unless it is essential. Avoid hot water Extreme temperatures can inflame the skin and trigger a flare-up in people with skin conditions. To soothe your skin, use lukewarm or cool water for a shower. Hot water will dry the skin and cause redness, itching, and sometimes peeling. Avoid excessive sunlight Having sufficient exposure to sunlight is essential, but it can be harmful to people with skin diseases. Sunburns can cause inflammation to your skin and can lead to flare-ups. People with skin diseases should keep sun exposure to a minimum. Use mineral sunscreen to block out the burning rays. Avoid stress Stress can make skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis worse. When stressed, your body’s hormones cause inflammation, further irritating your skin. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation. Also, ensure you get enough sleep to reduce stress. Avoid all types of allergens Pet dander, dust, and mold can come into direct contact with the skin and cause flare-ups.

Premature aging is a condition when the natural effects of growing old start early. The condition makes a person’s skin appear older than its actual age. The most visible signs of aging are age spots, dryness, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and more. The aging process could also accelerate due to multiple skincare and lifestyle missteps. Here are some commonly made mistakes that one must avoid to maintain skin healthiness and counteract the signs of aging. Avoiding sunscreen Premature aging happens when you ignore sunscreen as part of your skincare routine. Sunscreen aids in protecting the skin against harmful UV rays from the sun, thus, preventing skin damage. When sunscreen is not applied to areas of the body exposed to sunlight, it can result in problems such as dark spots, damage to collagen, dilated vessels, and wrinkles. It is important to wear proper sun gear to save the body from UV rays. It is also significant to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is sweat and water-resistant. If you want extra protection, you can also choose to wear clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) tags. Extreme exfoliation People use scrubs to get rid of dead skin cells and gain soft, smooth skin. However, this can often cause bruising of the facial skin and inflammation. Furthermore, using scrubs can cause the pores to open, making the skin dry. It can lead to premature aging, fine lines, and wrinkles. Constant rubbing and tugging while scrubbing the skin can cause damage and compromise the protective layering of the skin. Therefore, it is essential to undertake exfoliation gently through the fingertips or a silicone scrubbing pad. Going to bed with makeup A daily skincare routine should involve properly cleansing the skin and removing all makeup before sleeping. It is crucial because the skin gets exposed to various kinds of dirt, bacteria, and pollutants in the environment.