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7 warning signs that indicate ulcerative colitis development

7 warning signs that indicate ulcerative colitis development
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects one’s large intestine. It can inflame or cause ulcers in one’s rectum and colon, which is the inner lining of the large intestine. The disease has no known cure, but there are certain treatments as well as lifestyle and food habits that can reduce its flare-ups. Below are some signs of ulcerative colitis that should prompt one to consult a doctor immediately. Warning signs of ulcerative colitis development Abdominal discomforts like cramps, nausea, and bloating If abdominal discomfort like excessive gas, nausea, cramping, or bloating occurs frequently and persists for days without any significant lifestyle changes, it may be an early sign of ulcerative colitis. Diarrhea which may contain blood, mucus, pus Diarrhea that contains blood, mucus, or pus is another common sign of ulcerative colitis. Fever and loss of appetite An inexplicable high temperature that lasts more than a day or two can be a sign of a more serious health issue. Additionally, patients with ulcerative colitis might also find it difficult to build up an appetite on a daily basis. Rectal bleeding If one finds spotting or blood in one’s stool while defecating, it’s an alarming sign of ulcerative colitis.

5 foods to avoid for boosting lung health

5 foods to avoid for boosting lung health
In an era of rising pollution levels and novel respiratory disorders, keeping the lungs healthy can be a challenge for many. While exercising and frequent physical screenings can help, what a person eats is equally critical for their respiratory health. Certain foods, such as apples, tomatoes, and blueberries, are great for the lungs. On the flip side, some foods can seriously degrade lung health in the long term. So let’s look at such foods. Ice cream Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt can worsen asthma and its symptoms in patients. Milk is a rich source of calcium and vitamins. However, milk products also have casomorphin, a chemical that has been known to increase the mucus quantity in the intestines. Ice cream is arguably the worst of them all, as overeating can inflame the respiratory tract tissues and produce excessive mucus in the lungs. Ice creams contain refined sugar, which makes them one of the worst foods for the lungs. Chocolate Speaking of sugar, chocolate also contains high amounts of artificial sweeteners, sugar, and a surprisingly low number of nutrient elements. Additionally, it has caffeine, which rapidly increases the heart rate of a person. Like milk and other dairy products, sugar is also an inflammatory agent.

6 foods to eat when running a fever

6 foods to eat when running a fever
When one feels under the weather, eating the right foods may help provide relief. Even though an appetite may be close to nonexistent, one should not remain hungry, as fever burns more calories than the body does on a daily basis. Plus, when fighting off an infection, the body requires more nutrients and energy to strengthen the immune system. Hence, one must eat right and avoid certain food items to regain the lost strength. Fever – Top 6 foods to eat Even though one might not be in the mood or have an appetite when sick, one must eat nutrient-rich food to get stronger. Some of the best foods to eat during a fever are: Chicken soup A go-to meal during sickness, chicken soup has been consumed for generations. It’s not only easy to eat but also contains calories, vitamins, and minerals that the body needs while recovering from an illness. Furthermore, chicken soup is also a great source of liquids and electrolytes, which can be helpful if one is at risk of dehydration due to fever. Moreover, the broth is rich in collagen, which may promote recovery. Coconut water One of the ideal beverages to consume when sick, coconut water contains electrolytes which are needed along with fluids when one is sweating, vomiting or running a fever.

6 gardening mistakes to steer clear of

6 gardening mistakes to steer clear of
Nothing compares to the excitement of growing your own food, especially if it’s the first time! The idea of sowing a tiny seed and watching it develop into something that may wind up on your kitchen table will make you smile. But gardening doesn’t always turn out as expected. Most amateurs make gardening mistakes that impact their produce. Here, we’ll explain some of these mistakes and how to correct them. Too much exposure to light Plants require sunlight to grow, but too much exposure is dangerous. The leaves of a plant can grow pale, turn brown, and eventually die when exposed to direct sunlight for too long. So, shield them from excessive sunshine, especially during the hot summer. Notice how the light conditions in your garden vary as the seasons change to avoid making this typical error. Watering excessively or insufficiently Consistent watering is necessary for successful harvests. Most crops thrive when they receive roughly an inch of precipitation every week. So, get a rain gauge to track the rainfall. If your garden has stagnant water puddles, the crops might suffer, and the leaves may turn yellow. To prevent that, add several inches of organic matter to your soil. Mulching will also help maintain a stable soil moisture level.

6 dental issues indicating high sugar intake

6 dental issues indicating high sugar intake
Having a sweet tooth is more common in the country than one would imagine. According to a recent survey, 59% of respondents (who snack often) in the country chose cookies as their favorite snacks, with ice cream and sweets also featuring among the top 10 picks. While desserts are instant mood enhancers, excessive sugar intake triggers several health issues, which include compromised dental health. Here are a few ways in which sugar affects oral health: Dental cavities The teeth contain two types of hard tissues—enamel and dentin. When sugar enters the mouth, it may be metabolized by oral bacteria to give rise to acid, which can demineralize the enamel and the dentin, causing cavities. Food particles may enter these cavities, leading to tooth decay and further complications. Although teeth cavities may be covered with dental fillings, this process is rather expensive, accounting for 5–10% of the healthcare budget. Plaque Plaque or tartar refers to a sticky coating of bacteria on the teeth, causing bad breath, dark stains, and hard teeth deposits. Often, tartar is formed when the molecules present in sugary foods mix with one’s saliva and oral bacteria. If left untreated, tartar may dissolve the enamel and lead to the development of dental cavities.

4 early signs of viral infections

4 early signs of viral infections
A viral infection can seem similar to a bacterial infection because of an overlap in their symptoms. However, viruses are much tinier than bacteria and need a host to survive, making treatment of viral infections differ from bacterial ones. Viruses can cause many diseases by attacking certain cells like those in the respiratory system, liver, and blood. Here are a few early signs of a viral infection that one can observe: Flu symptoms Fever, body aches, headache, and fatigue are some of the telltale signs of a viral infection like influenza. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may require immediate treatment. The symptoms here may develop suddenly instead of gradually, so it is important to seek a prompt diagnosis when one observes any of the abovementioned signs. Those with flu symptoms usually recover in less than two weeks, however, some people may experience serious complications like pneumonia. Upper respiratory symptoms Another common type of symptom to recognize is respiratory issues, like persistent sore throat, coughing, nasal congestion, and sneezing. Sinus or ear infections are some of the complications that can develop due to a viral infection. In severe cases, the virus can cause extreme inflammation in the respiratory system, which can lead to sepsis—the body’s extreme response to an infection.

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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.

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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.
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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.
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