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Reasons why you shouldn’t worry about aging

Reasons why you shouldn’t worry about aging
Aging is a part of life; there is nothing to worry about if you know what to expect and how to prepare for it in advance. Indeed, you may not be as strong and suffer from aches and pains more often. However, by ensuring that you take care of your health now, you can slow down your body’s aging process. Read on to know more about aging, its signs, and how to take care of yourself. What are the signs of aging? Aging is a subjective process and can not be generally categorized. Aging is associated with psychological, biological, and physiological changes. The most easily noticeable and early signs of aging are graying of hair followed by drastic changes that affect the working and functioning of a person. However, with timely medical check-ups, proper diet, and exercise you can ensure that you are healthy and prepared for anything that aging throws at you. What happens when you age? As mentioned above the human body goes through a multitude of changes. The heart, bones and joints, muscles, brain, digestive and urinary tracts, and senses weaken with age and do not perform optimally. The heart is especially affected by age as its muscles begin to stiffen leading to heart problems and high blood pressure.

6 nuts and seeds for managing arthritis

6 nuts and seeds for managing arthritis
Arthritis is a collective term to describe more than 100 types of joint pain or joint diseases and other related complications. If left unchecked, the pain caused by the condition could be disabling and interfere with one’s ability to perform daily tasks. One can resort to treatments and therapies to manage the symptoms of arthritis. At the same time, one can make lifestyle changes such as eating healthy foods like nuts and seeds to improve their condition. Walnuts Rich in ALA, adding walnuts to one’s meals can significantly help curb the symptoms of arthritis. The food is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids that help lower the C-reactive protein (CRP – a marker of inflammation that may heighten the risk of arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. One could add walnuts to meatless dishes and with other healthy foods like stir-fried broccoli with chopped garlic. Peanuts Eating a handful of unsalted peanuts throughout the day will ensure the body receives a healthy source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These properties may lower unhealthy low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk. They can also introduce magnesium to one’s system, which will keep blood sugar in control. Subsequently, controlling these conditions may contribute to improved symptoms of arthritis.

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.

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.

5 common outdoor cooking mistakes to avoid

5 common outdoor cooking mistakes to avoid
Barbecues or campfire cooking under the night sky with friends and family is always a delightful activity filled with chatter, laughter, and lots of food. But this enjoyable gathering can quickly turn into a disaster if one is not meticulous with the preparation. Some errors can not only affect the cooking but even pose a serious health risk and dampen the overall mood of the activity. Here are some such mistakes and ways to fix them. Forgetting to carry proper tools Anyone planning for an outdoor grill must stock up on a set of important tools. These usually include a mandatory grilling set, pots and pans, spatulas, thermometers, utensils, tongs, meat claws, oil brushes, and barbecue skewers. Depending on what one is planning to cook, the essentials may vary. Not having these handy can create a cooking mess or inconvenience and lead to frustration and disappointment. Ignoring safety Safety is paramount when dealing with fire and oil, especially outdoors, where wind, dry foliage, and other natural elements may not always be cooperative. So, one is advised to gear up and have some safety measures in place. This is not just to protect the food but also the invitees from any potential disasters.

8 superfoods that contribute to a healthy living

8 superfoods that contribute to a healthy living
Nutrient-dense foods that are considered beneficial for health are considered superfoods. These superfoods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that help achieve optimal health. They provide the body with ample antioxidants and assist the system in fighting off free radical damage. Including these superfoods regularly in the menu can help prevent the onset of chronic inflammation and other health conditions. Remember to choose high-quality, organic, and fresh options when possible. Before discussing eight popular superfoods, we highlight two lesser-known options for healthy living: spirulina and wheatgrass. Spirulina is a type of algae considered a great source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, iron, copper, magnesium, and other essential nutrients necessary for optimal body function. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even anticancer properties that reduce the oxidative damage done to cells. In addition, spirulina promotes cardiovascular health, supports the immune system, provides allergy relief, and even maintains eye health. Wheatgrass is an excellent source of natural iron, selenium, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6. Its extract is used to make a juice that promotes immunity, helps the body detox, and even prevents common diseases. Wheatgrass is commonly used for managing fever, cold, cough, common digestive problems, and even skin conditions.

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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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