Constipation is characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stool. Signs and symptoms include passing fewer than three stools per week, having hard or lumpy stools, straining to have bowel movements, and needing help to empty the rectum. Experiencing two or more of these symptoms for over three months is called chronic constipation, although certain foods can help promote bowel movement and ease the pain caused by constipation. Some of these foods are: Prunes Dried plums or prunes are often used as a natural remedy for constipation due to high amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber. While the insoluble fiber (cellulose) increases the water content of the stool, the soluble fiber ferments in the colon to add weight to the stool. Besides, prunes also contain sorbitol and phenolic acids that promote the growth of good gut bacteria, producing a laxative effect on the body overall and improving stool frequency and consistency. Apples Apples are also a rich source of fiber. While they mostly contain insoluble fibers, they also have a soluble fiber called pectin which is fermented by the bacteria in the stomach to form short-chain fatty acids. These acids pull water into the colon, helping to soften the stool and ease constipation. Apples also contain high levels of water, which eases the digestive process. They must be consumed raw and whole, with their skin intact. Kiwis Kiwis are high in fiber. They are also a great source of an enzyme called actinidine, which can ease gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, pain, indigestion, and reflux. They can be peeled and eaten raw or added to smoothies and salads for a fiber boost. Artichokes Artichokes promote gut bacteria and bowel regularity. Due to the inulin content, they have been associated with having a prebiotic effect on the digestive tract by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli and reducing the growth of harmful bacteria, improving stool frequency and consistency among those who have constipation.

Headaches usually develop as pain or discomfort in the head and face region. Its intensity ranges from dull pain to throbbing pulsating sensations. There are several underlying risk factors and causes ranging from exertion to progressive chronic disorders. But no two headaches develop the same way, and this pain or discomfort should be treated promptly to avoid serious health complications. Following are the five alarming signs of headaches that require immediate medical attention. A pressure or squeezing sensation Tension headaches trigger a squeezing or pressure sensation on both sides of the head. It is the most common form of discomfort experienced by adults purely as a result of over-exertion and stress. The experience is described as someone holding the head on both sides and squeezing it with all their might. Tension pain is also slow and develops gradually around the head and neck base, progressing to the sides. Other symptoms like nausea, vomiting or increased light sensitivity can develop simultaneously. Most types of tension headaches can be treated with oral prescriptions. Severe unbearable pain Sometimes, pain can become so unbearable that it will affect daily routine and sleep. Adults over 50 are generally at a high risk of developing hypnic headaches. They cause dull, stabbing, throbbing, burning, and pulsating pain, not essentially in that order and with varying degrees of severity. Women are at high risk of experiencing these headaches. Metabolic changes due to an overactive thyroid and hypertension are among the known underlying health complications that can cause hypnic headaches. Fever and stiff neck Underlying health complications and chronic disorders are common culprits associated with headaches and migraines. For example, neurological disorders like meningitis or encephalitis cause inflammation of the brain cells and membrane that protects the organ. Fever and stiff neck are among the first warning signs of these conditions.

Unhealthy food habits may not impact the eyes immediately, but they can give birth to various diseases that eventually affect eye health. For healthy eyes, experts recommend eating meals rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, zinc, and vitamins A, E, and C. These nutrients are found in citrus fruits, leafy greens, eggs, seeds, nuts, and fatty fish. At the same time, experts recommend avoiding specific foods like those discussed below. Sweetened drinks Sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks are laden with artificial sweeteners. One serving of these drinks is estimated to have seven to ten tablespoons of sugar! Since the sugar is in liquid form, it gets easily absorbed into the body and the bloodstream. Such a high amount of sugar is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, age-related macular degeneration, and type 2 diabetes, all of which can affect eye health. Saturated and trans fat Pizza, donuts, fried chicken, coffee creamers, cakes, cookies, pies, and sweets are all rich in saturated and trans fats. These fats increase bad cholesterol in the blood, clogging the arteries and affecting the blood supply to the eyes. One should substitute these harmful fats for unsaturated fats like omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce the risk of eye diseases like macular degeneration. Some recommended foods with omega-3 are cod liver oil, sardines, oysters, nuts like walnuts and almonds, and seeds. Sodium-rich foods Processed foods and red meats like hot dogs, sausages, ham, bacon, deli meat, and canned foods are high in salt since they need to be preserved for a long time. Such high-sodium foods increase the risk of hypertension or high blood pressure. These conditions can cause fluid accumulation behind the retina, stop the blood supply to the nerves, damage blood vessels, and impair eyesight. Studies show that a high sodium intake can also increase the risk of cataracts.

Flu is a contagious illness known to be spread by the influenza virus through the air. Some of the common flu symptoms include fever, cough, cold, runny nose, body aches, headaches, fatigue, vomiting, or even diarrhea. Certain home remedies, including some foods, can be used at home to relieve the symptoms. If symptoms do not improve in a few days, it is best to consult a doctor for a detailed diagnosis. Having elderberry Eating elderberries can help in deactivating the flu virus and also help in boosting immunity naturally. Studies have shown that consuming 15 milliliters of elderberry syrup four times a day for five days may help relieve the symptoms of the virus. If you have been experiencing sinus pain as well, then these berries can aid in reducing inflammation. Doing a salt water gargle This is an effective remedy to soothe a sore throat. Here’s what you need to do: Take a glass of warm water and mix ½ tsp of salt with it. Take a sip of this salt water and then pull this water at the back of the throat by looking up. Gargle for 20-30 seconds, allowing the water to rinse your mouth and throat. Spit it out into the sink and then repeat this process 2-3 times. Do not swallow the water, but if you accidentally do, do not worry; start again and be careful. This helps in reducing inflammation and also helps with any throat pain caused due to inflammation. Drink ginger tea Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, so it is recommended to sip ginger tea throughout the day. There are some other spices and herbs that are known to help, like cloves, turmeric, and even black pepper. Boil a cup of water and add some dried ginger and tea leaves to this boiling water and let it stew for 2 minutes.

Electromagnetism forms the crux of several industries and devices, including cell phones and towers, radar, GPS, and radio waves. Healthcare also uses electromagnetic waves and fields, but most people may not know about their sheer depth and benefits in the field. An underrated application of electromagnetism in healthcare is the super-effective electromagnetic field therapy, a treatment alternative with several wide-ranging health benefits for individuals undergoing it. Here are some reasons to try electromagnetic field therapy: Improving cardiovascular health Electromagnetic field therapy boosts the production of nitric oxide in the body. This chemical compound is critical for the overall growth and development of cells and blood vessels in individuals. Nitric oxide calms down artery-related stress and, as a result, prevents abnormal blood clotting and coagulation. This dramatically improves blood circulation and, as a result, boosts the cardiovascular health of individuals. That, in itself, is one of the prime reasons to try electromagnetic field therapy. Improving sleep Several research studies and real-world applications have found that pulsing magnetic fields can stimulate melatonin production, a hormone that improves sleep and facilitates anti-aging in individuals. As a result, electromagnetic field therapy is directly linked with improved sleep cycles and more sustained rejuvenation in individuals. Reducing pain and inflammation Electromagnetic field therapy can enter skin layers and reach the bones and muscles to ease inflammation and pain in the body. Additionally, by improving circulation, this therapy ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach damaged tissues and muscles much more quickly to speed up the healing process. Detoxifying the cells Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) assists with detoxifying cells and strengthening the immune system of people undergoing the treatment. Doing so not only improves a person’s immunity but also enhances certain biochemical functions that speed up the digestion of food and detoxify molecules by healthily raising body temperature.

Oral health is an extremely important part of overall health. Keeping the teeth, tongue, and gums clean and healthy by removing harmful bacteria is essential to having strong teeth. But this requires a lot of care and attention. To make the process easier, you may try some natural remedies at home and add some foods to your nutrition regime to keep your teeth shining bright and healthy. Take a look. Strawberries These berries are not just delicious but also great for oral health. Strawberries contain malic acid, which is known to be a natural enamel whitener. They also contain citric acid, which can help enhance the white appearance of the teeth. However, citric acid is known to demineralize the teeth; so always make sure you don’t go overboard. You can try rubbing cut strawberries on your teeth and leave them on for a couple of minutes before rinsing your mouth. Carrots Plaque and tartar buildup is common on teeth and it can lead to decay faster than its normal timeline. Carrots are especially great for breaking down plaque and tartar. Because of the thick texture of these vegetables, eating carrots can help you fight against tooth decay by cleaning up the teeth. Also, because carrots take longer than other soft foods to be chewed, they help create more saliva than usual, which also helps in breaking down plaque and tartar buildup. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, hard cheese, and even milk can be used to whiten the teeth. They contain lactic acid and calcium, which is an enamel-fortifying mineral. These two not only whiten the teeth but also add strength. Chewing on hard cheeses is especially great as it prompts the production of saliva, which is essential in cleaning teeth by removing unnecessary food particles and stains. Leafy greens This may sound surprising but leafy greens like kale and spinach are great for teeth whitening.

Taking a bath every day seems so basic, right? It’s nothing new, and it’s an activity that requires the least effort or thought. All one needs is a steady supply of fresh water, some soap, a quality loofa, and time on hand. But surprisingly, many people unknowingly develop habits while bathing that can cause the skin to lose its natural shine and cause more harm. Bathing too long and using the wrong soap are just a few to name among the following bathing mistakes. Taking extreme hot water showers Hot water may work as an effective disinfectant, especially when used with a quality antibacterial soap. But bathing in super-hot water also strips the skin of essential lipids that lock in the oil and prevent cells from drying out. Therefore, it is advisable to mix hot and cold water to arrive at a tolerable temperature. Using a soap without moisturizer Water and soap mix to form a lather that helps clean out dead skin and dirt off the surface. But at the same time, this lather also sucks out the natural moisture. Using just soap is never enough. It’s better to switch to a moisturizing soap that helps lock in the natural oils and prevents the skin from drying out. Waiting to apply lotion The best time to apply a good skin hydrating lotion or moisturizer is right after taking a bath when the skin is still mildly damp. Damp skin allows the moisturizer to soak in effectively and quickly preventing the skin from drying out. Showering too often It is a good habit to maintain general hygiene and take a bath regularly. But many experts agree that showering or taking a full body immersive bath daily robs the skin of its natural moisture and oils. The dry skin can result in microscopic cracks that allow the bacteria to enter and trigger a skin infection.

Junk food is known to be delicious, but opting for it regularly may do more harm than good. Eating right is one of the most important things to do to take care of the body and mind. In fact, increasing amounts of evidence suggest that certain foods may help ease the symptoms of depression. Hence, people dealing with depression are often suggested to eat healthy foods to nourish the body and mind. Managing depression – Foods to eat Eating regular meals is one of the first steps to becoming healthy. Furthermore, picking the right foods and avoiding certain items may also help manage mental health conditions such as depression. Thus, here are some of the nutrition-rich foods one can consider adding to their meal plan. Walnuts Multiple studies have confirmed that omega-3 fatty acids support brain function and even help in the reduction of depression symptoms. As walnuts are one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, experts suggest adding them to one’s meal plan. Some of the other omega-3-rich foods include flaxseed oil, canola oil, nuts, and fish. Avocado Usually, the brain needs healthy fat content to function smoothly. So, one can add avocados to their meal plan in the form of salads to ensure that the body and mind receive the required nutrition. Additionally, avocados are rich in other nutrients such as monounsaturated fats, vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E12, and different forms of vitamin B. The fruit is also a good source of oleic acid, which can help combat depression and its associated symptoms. Apples Fresh fruits, such as apples, are an excellent source of pectin, a soluble fiber found in vegetables and fruits. Several studies have shown that consuming high amounts of fiber is associated with a lower risk of depression symptoms. Research has indicated a strong connection between the gut microbiome and depression.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a prevalent health condition that leads to itchy, inflamed, cracked, and rough skin. It can be triggered by various factors, including foods (like dairy, nuts, and eggs) and environmental stressors (pollen, fragrances, and extreme heat). Further, the added ingredients in some types of soaps are notorious for worsening the symptoms. To control eczema flares, one must work with a healthcare practitioner to identify their triggers and find alternative products. Cocamidopropyl betaine This is a surfactant or foaming agent commonly used in cleaning products like soaps. When mixed with water, it produces a thick lather to remove dirt. Although extracted from coconut oil, this surfactant can trigger symptoms of eczema around the eyes, scalp, hands, and mouth. Added fragrances Using a scented soap might seem like a brilliant idea, but it may trigger symptoms of eczema. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), 8 to 15% of eczema patients are allergic to added fragrances. Soaps with fragrances may also contain dyes that further trigger the skin, leading to eczema flares. Although some products are labeled “unscented” or “fragrance-free,” they have certain chemical compounds to mask unpleasant natural odors from other ingredients. Experts recommend avoiding soaps with ingredients like cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol, isoeugenol, geraniol, hydroxycitronellal, oakmoss, and natural essential oils that are used for giving soap an appealing smell. Antibacterial agents Antibacterial soaps are harsher and can trigger eczema symptoms, especially if one has sensitive skin. A specific antibacterial chemical, benzalkonium chloride, is also present in no-wash hand cleansers such as sanitizers. Even a tiny amount of these products can trigger eczema symptoms. Added preservatives like MCI and MI Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI) are common preservatives added to skincare and cosmetic products to increase their shelf life, reduce the growth of fungi and bacteria in them, and protect their formulation.

Migraine is a neurological condition identified by recurrent episodes of moderate to severe headaches and differs from regular headaches. Symptoms like sensitivity to sound and light, vomiting, watery eyes, and nausea accompany migraine headaches. While multiple treatment options exist for migraines, there is no known cure. However, it is possible to manage the condition with the help of food and lifestyle changes. Multiple forms of exercise also help in better migraine management. Tai Chi This is a fluent form of martial arts that combines fluid movements and deep breathing and is an effective form of exercise to help with migraine pain. Since stress is a common migraine trigger, it can help patients manage their symptoms. It also effectively reduces blood pressure and improves the patient’s overall health. Pilates Pilates helps strengthen the core muscles, improves body posture, and promotes relaxation. In addition, it can help relax and decrease the frequency and intensity of migraines. This improvement in posture and muscle relaxation may contribute to reducing migraines. Strength training Muscle tension and poor posture can both contribute to the list of migraine triggers. Strength training exercises like resistance band training or weight lifting can help with both problems. Building a strong neck can also help reduce the likelihood of tension headaches by providing better support for the neck and shoulders. Yoga Yoga promotes physical and mental relaxation by combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It helps reduce stress levels, reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. In addition, specific yoga postures can increase blood flow to the brain, relieving the tension in the shoulders and the neck. Since these are some of the most common areas of tension and pain in people with migraine, yoga can be highly effective. Cardiovascular exercises Aerobic activities that are responsible for increasing heart rate and breathing can be of assistance when trying to help lower migraine pain.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a condition that causes inflammation in the esophagus. This chronic immune system disease is characterized by the aggressive growth of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the lining of the esophagus. EoE flare-ups can resemble allergic reactions. So, certain triggers, such as specific weather conditions, other disorders, and foods, can worsen symptoms of EoE. Here are some of the foods to avoid when dealing with the condition: Milk Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, butter, cheese, and cream can trigger EoE flare-ups. These products are made up of components like casein, diacetyl, lactalbumin, lactose, tagatose, whey, rennet casein, and more that cause undesirable chemical reactions in the esophagus of those with dormant EoE symptoms. Once that happens, the growth of eosinophils becomes even more aggressive, causing symptoms like pain and discomfort. Pasta Most types of pasta contain gluten, another protein that triggers or worsens EoE symptoms. Gluten or wheat sensitivity and inflammation are observed in people with EoE. As wheat and gluten are the building blocks of pasta, cereals, white bread, and crackers, these foods must be avoided when affected by EoE. Alternatively, one can opt for foods like rice, quinoa, tapioca, beans, barley, and legumes, as they offer similar nutritional value without gluten. Eggs Eggs are also one of the foods to avoid for EoE management, as it contains ovalbumin, an element known to trigger inflammation in the esophagus. Instead of eggs (including yolks, dried powdered, whites, or solids), one can use substitutes for egg-based recipes. For instance, mashed bananas, applesauce, and a combination of flax and water can be alternatives for such snacks. Tofu Soy-based foods can also trigger EoE flare-ups. So one should avoid soy sauce, tofu, miso, and edamame if they are dealing with the condition. Here, one can use soy sauce substitutes like refined soybean oil, coconut aminos, and soy lecithin.

Food is fuel for the body. Therefore, maintaining a balance of essential vitamins, nutrients, and minerals sourced from daily foods is necessary to ensure proper bodily functions. Take the case of skeletal structure; there are 206 bones in the human body. It means a significant portion of daily nutrition intake goes into bone maintenance, growth, and repair of connector joints. Bones require calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which are abundant in the below foods. Dairy Dairy is one of the richest sources of calcium necessary for maintaining bone health. Full-fat milk, skim milk, buttermilk, plain yogurt, and Greek yogurt are all nutritious sources of calcium that can be easily incorporated into one’s daily meal plan. Even different types of cheese contain enough calcium to supplement bone health. Parmesan cheese tops the list, with cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese following suit. People who are lactose intolerant can substitute these products with soy milk, soy-based yogurt, almond milk, or even rice milk to get the daily dose of calcium and vitamin D. Seafood Sardines, salmon, and tuna are the top picks among seafood, being rich sources of calcium and vitamin D. Sardines can be consumed directly from the can in many ways. Canned salmon and sliced tuna are also acceptable options when taken in moderation. These fish are also excellent sources of natural proteins that promote muscle growth and tissue repair to create strong muscular support for bone joints. Eggs Eggs are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb the calcium essential for bone health directly from foods and supplements. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids further prevent and reduce inflammatory responses that affect bone health. So, including a few egg yolks and whites for calcium and protein supplementation in the daily meal plan will benefit.