Home | Cat foods

The benefits of healthy food habits for sickle cell patients

The benefits of healthy food habits for sickle cell patients
Sickle cell disease, also known as sickle cell anemia, is a genetic disorder that modifies regular red blood cells into a sickle or crescent shape. The disease is more common in people with a deficiency in vitamin D and poor appetite. The condition may also lead to reduced growth and development in children. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how nutrition can help support sickle cell patients. Balance and increase nutrients When it comes to sickle cell disease, asymptomatic patients tend to show energy levels below the set threshold. This number falls to about half when illness sets in or when the person is hospitalized. Therefore, one should increase the food they eat if they wish to tackle the condition’s symptoms. Some of these foods include the following: Whole grains, rice, and cereals, which are high in vitamin B, magnesium, folate, and selenium Milk, cheese, and yogurt that are loaded with vitamin D and calcium Certain vegetable oils that are rich in vitamin E and fatty acids Meats, nuts, seeds, and beans are good sources of protein, zinc, and iron Green leafy vegetables and fruits, as these foods carry high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and even fiber Calorie intake A high-calorie intake also supports those with sickle cell disease.

7 foods that aid recovery from colon cancer

7 foods that aid recovery from colon cancer
Colon cancer refers to cancer of the rectum or colon and typically begins as growth or polyp. Rectal bleeding, constipation and diarrhea, fatigue, abdominal pain, and bowel incontinence are some symptoms of this type of cancer. Alongside chemotherapy and other interventions, a change in eating habits can provide relief from colon cancer symptoms and help patients recover better. Here are some foods that can help alleviate the effects of this cancer type: Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables, particularly broccoli, contain high sulforaphane, a sulfur-rich phytochemical that helps fight cancer. Other cruciferous vegetables like kale, cabbage, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, collards, and mustard greens are also rich in sulforaphane and can help battle colon cancer. Foods rich in carotenoids Carotenoids are phytonutrients responsible for certain foods’ red, yellow, and orange pigmentations. Studies have demonstrated that these phytonutrients have cancer-fighting properties and help protect against colon cancer. Thus, carotenoid-rich foods like carrots, papayas, pumpkins, tomatoes, cantaloupes, and winter squash are beneficial for patients with colon cancer. Lean protein sources Chemotherapy can be a harrowing process that can considerably deplete one’s strength. Thus, it is important to replenish your body with essential proteins to regain energy throughout this procedure. Lean protein sources like Greek yogurt; eggs; white-fleshed fish such as haddock, halibut, and cod; low-fat cottage cheese (in case of no lactose intolerance); skinless chicken and turkey breast; and tofu are good sources of lean protein.

Five steps for effortless weight management

Five steps for effortless weight management
Many fitness websites focus on weight loss tips, but nobody talks about how hard it can be to maintain your ideal weight. Weight management is unlike shedding pounds; it is much more complex. It requires a sheer amount of discipline and dedication, along with maintaining a consistent routine. So, here’s a 5-step guide to weight management to make the process easier for you: Step 1: Maintain a consistent exercise routine Exercising is a common way to lose weight, but do not brush it off just because you’ve shed those extra pounds. You throw your routine out the window, and chances are that you’ll be off your ideal weight again. Exercising is essential, as it helps the body burn fat and improves overall health. Also, keep in mind that the type of exercise does not matter, so you can choose any physical activity you like to indulge in. Step 2: Don’t count every calorie Diet plans that help lose weight count each and every calorie consumed and burned, but this does not work in the long run. Trying to stay fit is not possible when you’re on a restricted diet. You need to get all the required nutrients, and fats are also an integral part of the list.

Top 6 foods to combat symptoms of GERD and EoE

Top 6 foods to combat symptoms of GERD and EoE
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition wherein the digestive acids from the stomach flow back into the esophagus. People with this condition experience frequent throat aches, ingestion difficulties, and heartburn. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a condition characterized by the aggressive inflammation of one’s food pipe lining. Although both these conditions are fundamentally different, they share some common symptoms. Additionally, these symptoms can be alleviated by eating healthy foods, some of which are mentioned below. Coconut milk Coconut milk is an excellent, delicious, and creamy alternative to conventional cow’s milk. Cow’s milk contains specific proteins, such as casein, that trigger an immune response and cause esophageal inflammation. On the other hand, coconut milk can address two problems with one solution. Firstly, it does not cause an EoE flare-up. Additionally, coconut milk is highly nutritious in its own right. It is loaded with nutrients and minerals, many of which safeguard the esophagus and stomach lining from rampant inflammation. As a result, it is one of the best foods to eat to counter GERD. Oatmeal (gluten-free and without milk) Oatmeal that is used to reduce the severity of GERD symptoms must be gluten-free and milk-free. One can eat gluten-free oatmeal made using coconut milk for the purpose.

5 mistakes to avoid when dealing with chronic pain

5 mistakes to avoid when dealing with chronic pain
Chronic pain can result from many health conditions. Here, one may not adequately prepare themselves for the constant discomfort, especially when it worsens unexpectedly. However, one can find many treatment options to relieve pain and address the underlying causes. But, exerting or unintentionally doing things that aggravate the pain can make it difficult to manage over time. So here are a few mistakes to avoid when dealing with chronic pain: Taking up excessive work Trying to take up a lot of chores or work tasks can make pain management difficult. Many chores squeezed into a small amount of time might lead to unnecessary stress—both mental and physical. So, one should avoid adding too many tasks to their to-do list to avoid feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. One should schedule their activities in a manageable way for the body to get enough rest. Making poor food choices While junk food can be a convenient meal choice, fried and ultra-processed foods lack the necessary nutrients one needs to recover from chronic pain and build energy. Further, nutrient deficiency can worsen the pain. Further, foods with excessive sugar and salt can worsen inflammation, aggravating chronic pain. So, nutrient-rich foods should make up most of the daily meals to lower pain and prevent health issues brought on by bad food habits and discomfort.

7 healthy human food options for dogs

7 healthy human food options for dogs
For most dog owners, ensuring their furry friends eat healthy foods is important. While commercial dog foods provide adequate nutrition that a pet needs, adding some human foods into their meal plan will offer them many health benefits. Certain human foods can provide essential vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that support the overall well-being of one’s pet. However, it is important to note that not all human foods are safe for dogs. Peanut butter Most dogs love licking on peanut butter treats. Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats and vitamins and has a healthy dose of protein. However, ensure it is always used in moderation since peanut butter is high in calories. Pick unsalted peanut butter to treat the dog as both salt and sweeteners, even artificial ones, can be harmful to them. Blueberries Blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants and essential nutrients. They carry most of the necessary vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. They are also low in calories and can be added as a snack or a treat. Blueberries can also be an easy option for training treats. Other berries that are healthy for dogs include raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries. However, it is important that they eat these in moderation.

Must
Reads.

4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.

Understanding the different aspects of a flu outbreak

Flu or influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It can result in mild to severe illness and health complications. A severe flu infection can result in hospitalization and can even prove to be fatal, especially in young children, older people aged above 65, and people with underlying health conditions. There are two main types of flu viruses: Type A and Type B virus. The illness can be periodical and result in seasonal flu epidemics each year. The cold, flu, and its symptoms such as cough is caused due to the type of the viruses mentioned above. Influenza may not always be considered by most people as a serious illness, its symptoms comprising a runny nose, headaches, cough, and muscle pain can be confused with those of a heavy cold. Yet reports suggest that seasonal influenza can claim up to 650,000 lives every year. That is why influenza vaccinations are important because they protect people, especially those in at-risk categories, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with vulnerable immune systems or underlying health conditions. What most of us call “the flu” is essentially seasonal influenza because it comes around in the coldest season twice a year, once in the Northern hemisphere’s winter, and once in the Southern hemisphere’s winter in temperate zones of the world. The flu circulates year-round in the tropics and subtropics, which makes it more contagious. The worst part about the influenza virus is that it constantly mutates, enabling it to evade the mechanisms of our immune systems. The virus learns from the responses of the human body and creates a suitable defensive mechanism to survive the attack by the immune system. When a new virus emerges, it can easily infect people and spread due to its contagiousness. Very little to no immunity to a new strain can lead to a simple outbreak becoming an epidemic or a pandemic within no time.

Our
Blog.

9 most common types of depression you should know about

9 most common types of depression you should know about

All of us feel low, upset, and unmotivated at some point in our life, but this isn’t classified as depression. Depression is a mood disorder that overshadows a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Signs and symptoms of this grave disorder can range from feeling hopeless and tired to completely losing the will to live. There are several types of depression and they are listed below so you can understand depression and people suffering from it better. Major Depression (Clinical Depression) The hallmark trait of this type of depression is the constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in social life or any outside stimuli. It often lasts for two weeks or more in which a person can experience symptoms such as hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) Dysthymia lasts for years and can disrupt daily life and interfere with personal and professional relationships. Individuals with dysthymia are often seen as dark, pessimistic, or complainers by others, and they have a hard time being happy in typically pleasant situations. Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder) People with manic depression experience high degrees of mood swings. Their train of thought can take them from feeling euphoric to feeling suicidal in just a few weeks.
Read More
Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Simple and practical guide points for expecting parents

Pregnancy is a new experience in every couple’s life, and one should understand a few things to ensure that the nine months are smooth and stress-free. Simply being prepared for pregnancy and looking forward to the joy of parenthood is not all there’s to childbirth. As a couple, you must understand, review, and adjust your lifestyle. Expecting mothers become their child’s nurturers and supporters from day one, but the expecting fathers, close relatives, and friends must also understand the key roles they will play right up to the due date. Here are a few simple family and pregnancy guide points to help you and your folks get started: Staying healthy Physical and mental wellbeing is extremely crucial for the expecting mother to ensure both her and the baby’s health. Diet plays a crucial role in this process, as the mother is now providing nutrition for the developing fetus as well as herself. As a family, you can take turns to ensure that the to-be mother is staying physically active, eating healthy and regularly, and not cultivating any bad habits. More importantly, family and loved ones should be prepared for the changes to come in the upcoming trimesters. Coping with changes – what to expect Morning sickness in the first trimester is quite common and can put a woman’s body under tremendous stress.
Read More