If you’re dealing with ADHD, food can be an essential tool in helping maintain or improve your focus and concentration. Unfortunately, certain everyday foods are the worst offenders regarding the condition’s symptoms; adopting a few healthy eating habits and eliminating highly processed snacks may improve your ability to stay focused and alert. Here is a list of six of the most common culprits that should be avoided to manage ADHD. Foods to avoid to manage ADHD Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) refers to a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting children and adults. The symptoms of ADHD include difficulty with focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, which can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning. While there is no specific meal plan for managing the condition, some foods can exacerbate symptoms and should be avoided. Here are six foods to avoid for managing ADHD: Sugary foods and drinks Consuming sugary foods and drinks can lead to a spike in blood sugar levels, worsening symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention. It is recommended to avoid processed and refined sugars found in candy, cakes, soda, and fruit juices. Instead, opt for natural sources of sugar such as fruits or honey. Artificial food coloring Research suggests that artificial food coloring may exacerbate symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity in children with ADHD. Foods commonly containing artificial food coloring include candy, cereals, instant/frozen food, and soft drinks. It is best to eliminate these foods to avoid ADHD and opt for natural alternatives such as organic and artificial color-free vegetables and fruits. Processed foods Processed foods have highly refined carbohydrates and artificial additives, which can negatively affect brain function and exacerbate ADHD symptoms. Foods to avoid with ADHD include frozen dinners, chips, and fast food. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Gluten Some research suggests that gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, may worsen symptoms of ADHD in some people.

Are you searching for ways to keep your kidneys and liver healthy? If yes, then proper nutrition is vital. Besides maintaining a balanced eating routine, including certain foods to look after these essential organs is important. Several natural ingredients can help cleanse your kidneys and liver of toxins while balancing their pH levels and boosting overall health. This blog will discuss six tasty foods that support good kidney and liver health. Read on to learn more! Foods to eat to manage kidney and liver health The kidneys and liver are two of the most vital organs in the human body. A healthy meal plan is crucial in maintaining the health of these organs. Here are six foods that are beneficial for healthy kidneys and liver: Leafy greens Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard contain antioxidants and vitamin C. These nutrients help protect against damage caused by free radicals (unstable cells causing inflammation/damage to other cells). They also contain various nutrients that support healthy kidney function, including magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Berries Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries have antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. This can be especially beneficial for the kidneys, which are prone to inflammation since they filter waste products and toxins from the blood. Berries have low calories and are high in fiber, helping maintain a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Fatty fish Salmon, mackerel, and sardines have high omega-3 fatty acids, improving liver function and reducing inflammation. Omega-3 can also improve kidney function by improving blood flow. Fatty fish is also an excellent protein source, which helps build and repair tissues in the body. Nuts and seeds Nuts and seeds have high healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them an excellent choice for reducing the risk of chronic diseases. They also have antioxidants and other nutrients that benefit the liver and kidneys.

Food allergies are unpredictable and can have mild to severe symptoms, such as bumps, rashes, choking, or breathing difficulties. One approach to managing food allergies is through adopting an elimination meal plan. This plan involves temporarily removing certain foods from your regime to identify which ones are causing your symptoms. There are several types of food-elimination nutrition plans for allergies. This article will discuss the most common ones that are used by individuals. Food elimination nutrition plans for allergies Traditional elimination plan The traditional elimination meal plan involves removing common allergenic foods from your meals for a while, typically for two to four weeks. These foods often include dairy, soy, wheat, corn, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. After this period, one food is reintroduced, and any reactions are noted. Then, you repeat the same for other foods. The traditional elimination nutrition plan is typically used for people with conditions such as eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), which is caused by an allergic reaction to certain foods. This condition may manifest as chest pain, heartburn, abdominal pain, vomiting, trouble swallowing, and stunted growth in children. Modified elimination plan The modified elimination plan is similar to the traditional one but more restrictive. In addition to the common allergenic foods, it removes other foods that may be causing symptoms, such as fruits, vegetables, and spices. The reintroduction process is the same as the traditional elimination meal plan. Specific food elimination plan The specific food elimination meal plan involves removing one specific food that is suspected of causing symptoms. This approach is often used when a specific food is identified as a trigger. For example, if a person has a known allergy to shrimp, they may eliminate shrimp from their food regime. Rotation plan The rotation plan involves rotating the consumption of certain foods regularly.

Menopause is a normal aspect of a woman’s aging process. The transition period generally begins four years before one’s last menstrual cycle, between the ages of 45 and 55. This phase may be accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, lower metabolism, and sleep problems. However, keeping one’s body nourished can help combat some of these symptoms. Some healthy foods to eat to manage menopause symptoms are listed below. Milk Milk and other dairy items such as cheese and yogurt are excellent sources of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins D and K, which are essential to keep the bones healthy. They also contain an amino acid called glycine, which can help improve sleep quality in menopausal women. Some studies have also linked dairy intake with a reduced risk of early menopause by up to 17 percent. Soy Soy and other soy products contain phytoestrogens, which act like a weaker version of the hormone estrogen in the body. Since the rate of production of estrogen declines during and after menopause, consuming soy products such as soy milk, soybeans, edamame, tofu, miso, and tempeh, can help manage the intensity of symptoms like hot flashes in menopausal women. Wheat Whole-grain foods such as wheat, bulgur, brown rice, steel-cut oats, popcorn, millets, quinoa, Kamut, and rye, contain fiber and B vitamins such as thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid. Eating whole grains lowers the risk of heart disease and cancer, especially in postmenopausal women. Grape seed According to some studies, eating grape seed supplements (with proanthocyanidin extracts) during menopause helped reduce the occurrence and intensity of symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, and insomnia. It was also reported to increase muscle mass and reduce blood pressure in menopausal women. Broccoli Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and kale have been found to positively affect menopause symptoms and estrogen levels, according to certain studies.

Nasal polyps is a respiratory condition in which a benign growth develops along the line of the sinuses. This growth, while benign, starts to affect airflow and breathing. If an individual suffers from chronic inflammation, they are at high risk of developing nasal polyps, and can be triggered by common environmental allergens. However, some foods help fight off nasal polyps, so let’s take a look at what can be had with this condition. Mushrooms This is a superfood for fighting off nasal polyps because of its selenium content. Selenium is an essential antioxidant that is found to reduce inflammation in the body. This is especially helpful during any flare-ups caused by nasal polyps. Some other foods, which are also rich in selenium, include fish like cod and halibut, Brazil nuts, and some specific types of red meat. Turmeric Turmeric is known for its vast variety of health benefits, and one of these is its anti-inflammatory properties, which help those dealing with nasal polyps symptoms. You can add turmeric to most curry recipes and even consider adding it to some warm milk. However, make sure that you only add a pinch of it, otherwise too much turmeric can add a bitter taste to the food. Cayenne pepper This is a popular ingredient in many spicy recipes and can easily be found in the market. Research states that cayenne pepper contains a compound called capsaicin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Not just this, but the pepper is also known for its rich source of beta carotene, potassium, vitamins like B6, C, and E, and also flavonoids. These are all essential nutrients to help deal with inflammation in the body. They also play a huge part in keeping the immune system healthy to fight off any infections and symptoms. Adding a pinch of this to recipes is recommended to reap its several nutritional benefits.

The human body has a complex network of veins and arteries that transport blood to different parts. It is a crucial function because blood contains oxygen and essential nutrients to keep a person healthy. Sometimes, clots can form in the veins and arteries, restricting blood flow and leading to severe complications. When this happens, doctors may recommend treatments, foods, and lifestyle changes to eliminate such clots and improve blood circulation. Signs of blood clots Identifying blood clots in time is vital to prevent the condition from worsening. Here are the signs to look out for: Swelling A swelling in the legs, arms, or other body parts that does not go away may be a sign of a blood clot. Pain or tenderness Pain or tenderness in the affected area may also be a warning sign. The pain may be localized or spread over a larger area. Warmth or redness Blood clots can cause warmth or redness in the affected area, which should not be ignored. Shortness of breath Blood clots in the lungs may cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing. Dizziness or confusion Clots in the brain can cause dizziness, confusion, and difficulty speaking or understanding. Foods to manage blood clots Besides using the proper treatment, one may add the following foods to their meals to manage the condition after consulting a health expert: Salmon Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and prevent unnecessary blood clots from forming. Dark chocolate Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, natural compounds that have been shown to improve circulation and reduce clots by helping thin the blood. Turmeric Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent and manage blood clots. Ginger Ginger has compounds like gingerol and paradol that can help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.

Our lungs help us breathe in oxygen and filter out harmful pollutants from the air. Therefore, it is essential to care for the lungs and keep them healthy. Poor lung health can increase the risk of several respiratory conditions that impact a person’s quality of life and lead to other complications. Keeping this in mind, we have put together a few simple tips to ensure your lungs remain healthy and functioning properly. Reduce exposure to air pollution A great way to maintain healthy lungs is to reduce exposure to environmental pollutants. Stay indoors as far as possible on high air pollution days and wear a face mask before leaving the house. While we cannot always control our environment, these steps will help prevent you from inhaling tiny particles that can harm the lungs. Regular exercise Another way to keep your lungs healthy is to exercise and indulge in physical activity regularly. Taking long walks amidst nature or practicing yoga can improve lung function and reduce the risk of respiratory diseases. Managing stress Research suggests stress can impact respiratory health by causing rapid breathing and inflammation. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing and pursuing a hobby are two ways to cope with stress and thus support the lungs. Proper nutrition and hydration Nutrition plays a vital role in improving the function of many organs in the body, including the lungs. So, follow a balanced meal plan and drink sufficient water throughout the day. A few healthy foods are beet greens, peppers, apples, blueberries, and turmeric. Regular check-ups Going for regular check-ups can help keep the lungs healthy. A healthcare expert can use different diagnostic tests to detect any problem in the organ early and ensure you receive the care you need for a speedy recovery. Vaccination Staying updated on vaccinations can defend the lungs against respiratory conditions and prevent their spread.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune health condition with symptoms that are easily visible such as dryness, redness, and peeling of the skin. It is generally known that these symptoms are the result of chronic inflammation. However, not many people are aware that psoriasis causes systemic inflammation, which means the inflammation affects not only the skin but also the internal organs of the body. This can eventually lead to other health complications. Psoriatic arthritis Psoriatic arthritis is one of the most common conditions linked to psoriasis. The symptoms include swollen and stiff joints with severe pain. Early onset of psoriatic arthritis is usually indicated by symptoms such as red or swollen joints along the spine, fingers, and elbows. Metabolic syndrome The metabolic syndrome results from elevated blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, and high levels of body fat and cholesterol. This syndrome further increases the risk of health conditions related to the heart and type 2 diabetes. Cardiovascular disease Cardiovascular disease or heart-related conditions include heart stroke, arrhythmia, heart failure, and problems related to the valves of the heart. It is estimated that those with psoriasis have twice the risk of developing cardiovascular complications. However, the risk increases for those who have been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome in the past as a result of psoriasis. Anxiety and depression Psoriasis affects the most visible organ of the body, which is the skin. The severe skin lesions, skin dryness, itchiness, and recurrent periods of inflammatory flare-ups can often prevent those with psoriasis from living a full life and lead to isolation. The inability to participate completely in social, personal, or professional activities can increase the risk of anxiety and depression. Inflammatory bowel disease Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are caused due to inflammation. In some cases, the same type of inflammation may result in psoriasis and IBD, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological condition that results in developmental issues, particularly affecting a child’s communication and interaction skills. The progressive disorder triggers certain deficits in social skills that limit their range of interests, behavior, and insights. Autism significantly impacts a child’s normal development with communication and behavioral traits that begin to affect their daily routine. Here are the early signs of autism in children requiring immediate specialist consultation for prompt diagnosis and assessment. Slow response and reaction to emotional cues The baby or child responds slowly to emotional cues. Being slow to smile or laugh, resisting holding or even cuddling, and not showing keen interest in objects around are all early signs of autism in children. Babies start to avoid eye contact, have difficulty listening, cannot babble naturally, and even develop facial expressions that don’t match the expected reaction. Another critical sign of autism is the baby failing to respond to their name being called out in the first 12 months. Abrupt emotional patterns Toddlers and preschoolers who don’t engage in pretend play (any activity that creates a caring emotional connect with an object or person) are indicative of the early stages of autism. Between 12 and 18 months of age, parents must observe and see if their child prefers playing alone and deliberately avoids social interactions. If yes, then it is a clear indicator of developing social isolation. Speech problems Young kids also develop unusual speaking and engaging patterns as autism progresses from the early stages. Some noticeable speech changes include speaking in a monotone voice or responding in an unusually disturbing rhythm. Kids may also stop responding to requests or start giving completely unrelated answers to questions. If there is a repetition of certain words or phrases, this is a serious sign of cognitive dysfunction that should not be ignored.

Eczema is a common skin disorder that affects nearly 10% of the population in the country. It causes the skin to dry, triggers itching, and causes red blistery patches to develop on the skin. While there is no cure for the condition, managing the symptoms and preventing flare-ups is entirely possible. Dermatologists suggest active daily nutrition and lifestyle changes and use these seven popular topical lotions and balms to soothe the skin. The Honest Company Eczema Soothing Therapy The steroid-free itch relief formula is one of the best topical lotions for eczema treatment to buy for small children and infants. The formula is safe for sensitive skin, completely hypoallergenic, and approved by dermatologists for regular use. The formula also contains no parabens, silicone, mineral oil, steroids, petrolatum additives, or preservatives. Buy the 3. oz balm from the official website for just $14.95 today. La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay is one of the top picks that is also fragrance-free and recommended for eczema treatment. The steroid and antibiotic-free formula soothes eczema flare-ups in specific places on the hands, body, and even the face to visibly reduce signs of skin damage. The lotion is dermatologically approved, allergy tested, suitable for sensitive skin, and pediatrician tested, making it suitable for children over 3. The 200 ml lotion sells for $15.99 on the official website. Wild Naturals Eczema and Psoriasis Cream Eczema can often trigger other skin conditions like psoriasis when the symptoms flare up. Wild Naturals cream provides dual benefits and soothing relief from dry skin, red itchy surfaces, or cracked skin. The active formula boasts a pH balance of 5.5 that is suitable for the skin and is completely free of steroids, dyes, fragrances, or harsh preservatives. Wild Naturals is slightly pricier, with the 4. oz bottle costing $24.95 on the official website.

For several women, excruciating pain and cramps are synonymous with periods. Research suggests that approximately 80% of individuals who menstruate experience period pain at some point. Adequate care and rest are essential to overcome period pain and avoid nutritional deficiencies during this time. Alongside maintaining a proper meal plan, avoiding certain types of foods, and staying as physically active as possible, avoiding these few common mistakes can help women manage better during their period. Using scented tampons or pads Besides causing irritation and discomfort, scented tampons and pads also alter the vagina’s pH balance, leading to problems like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Scented tampons and pads can also contribute to vaginal itching and odor. Thus, it is important to use unscented menstrual products at all times to avoid compromising menstrual health. Staying dehydrated The body loses more fluids during periods than on regular days. Consequently, it requires more water to perform daily functions like lubricating joints, controlling body temperature, regulating bowel movements, and providing nutrients and oxygen to the cells. Dehydration can slow down these processes significantly, aggravating one’s discomfort and weakening their immunity. It helps to set water reminders on one’s phone or smartwatch to stay hydrated during the menstrual cycle. Avoiding healthy foods About 50% of women in the country report having chocolate cravings during their period. While it is permissible to have small quantities of such foods to satisfy one’s cravings, avoiding healthy foods can deprive the body of basic essential nutrients. While menstruating, it is essential to incorporate foods like cruciferous vegetables, dates, leafy greens, fatty fish, whole grains, and lean meats, which can replenish the body with the required nutrients and control PMS symptoms. Not tracking one’s cycle Many women commit the mistake of tracking their periods only while trying to get pregnant. However, tracking one’s menstrual cycle can also help manage various health issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and understand one’s moods, hormonal changes, and other factors better.

The menstrual cycle duration varies between women, but the average is 28 days. Though a slight change in this average is considered normal, if one experiences an irregular menstrual cycle for several months, it might signify an underlying health condition that must be diagnosed and promptly treated. In such scenarios, it is advised to seek the help of an ob-gyn and watch out for some unhealthy lifestyle habits that must be changed. Sudden rigorous exercise routine Regular and moderate exercise can improve heart health, mood regulation, and a steady sleep cycle. Moreover, changing your exercise routine and trying a new regime won’t impact your menstrual cycle much. However, problems will arise when one suddenly switches to an extreme exercise/training routine, which can affect one’s menstrual cycle. It is commonly observed in women who start training for marathons or triathlons. Excessive stress Dealing with excessive stress levels for longer periods is another aspect that can impact one’s menstrual cycle. It is because stress leads to the higher production of cortisol, which can interfere with many crucial bodily functions. As a result, there is lower production of estrogen and progesterone. All these factors combined will hamper one’s menstrual cycle. Unhealthy sleeping habits Not maintaining a healthy sleep cycle is a major lifestyle mistake many people commit. Not having a regulated sleep cycle will mess up your body clock, affect hormone balance, and, in turn, impact the menstrual cycle. Besides a regular sleep schedule, sleep quality also affects your periods. Poor nutrition Eating fast food for a few days will not affect the menstrual cycle. However, changing one’s food habits repeatedly can hurt one’s periods. When the body does not receive enough nutrients or calories, the menstrual cycle might stop. Moreover, frequent changes happen in the body’s overall mass in such scenarios. Excessive or unexpected body mass loss can cause your menstrual cycle to go haywire.