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7 household items that may cause cancer

7 household items that may cause cancer
Certain environmental factors are among the most common cancer-causing agents. However, when people discuss environment-based carcinogens, not many focus on the threats within the household. Several household items pose just as grave a danger as radiation exposure for vulnerable people. The risk is more significant as people spend more time indoors than away from home. That said, here are a few household items linked with cancer that one should vary of: Non-stick cookware Non-stick cookware is a staple commodity found in most, if not all, homes. Non-stick items are helpful to avoid soaking utensils in water overnight and scraping off stuck food from pans. However, non-stick cookware is created using a chemical compound named polytetrafluoroethylene. This chemical is the main component of such cookware’s “non-sticky” coating. Several research studies have found that polytetrafluoroethylene is a carcinogen and can cause other harmful health effects and allergies if consumed for long periods. While purchasing cookware, one can check the percentage of polytetrafluoroethylene and look for substitutes. Couches and sofas Now, couches and sofas are the default resting spots for most people. However, the health risk associated with couches and sofas goes much deeper than how they make people averse to daily exercise.

6 common myths about IUD debunked

6 common myths about IUD debunked
Intrauterine device, also known as IUD are one of the most effective forms of birth control, with a less failure rate. However, despite their effectiveness, many myths and misconceptions surrounding IUDs prevent some women from considering them as an option for birth control. This article will debunk six common myths about IUDs that one needs to know to provide accurate information and help women make informed choices about their reproductive health. 6 myths about IUD Women who have children are the only ones who should use IUDs. One common misconception about IUDs, also known as intrauterine devices, is that they should only be used by women who have already given birth to children. Women of all ages and marital statuses can use an IUD for birth control. Young women who have never given birth are drawn to IUDs because they effectively prevent pregnancy. IUDs may cause infertility. Another widely held misconception regarding IUDs is that they could cause infertility. This is false, though, as studies have demonstrated that having an IUD does not impact a woman’s fertility or capacity to conceive after removing it. Moreover, studies have shown that compared to not using an IUD, utilizing one does not raise a woman’s risk of becoming pregnant.

6 common period mistakes women make

6 common period mistakes women make
Taking care of the body and maintaining proper hygiene during the menstrual period is incredibly important. This also includes using safe and hygienic menstrual products, which are extremely affordable. However, one can make a few mistakes while on their period, which can cause issues in the long run. Read this article to learn more about menstrual products and tips on how to avoid some common mistakes while on a period. Common mistakes made during the menstrual period Using scented tampons or pads In most cases, usage of scented menstrual products can lead to skin irritation and even cause burn-like symptoms. Hence, healthcare professionals recommend using fragrance-free products without any additives, such as aloe vera. Furthermore, one can also use organic products that contain no chemicals. Not keeping track of the period The menstrual cycle is often one of the markers of overall health. In fact, for some health conditions such as diabetes, celiac disease, and thyroid dysfunction, the menstrual cycle can be an indicator of the condition. Furthermore, irregular periods in women can also indicate certain forms of cancer. Hence, one can use period and ovulation tracking apps to ease the process of period tracking and maintain overall health. Additionally, seeking medical advice is suggested in case of a missed period.

5 foods to avoid when dealing with DVT

5 foods to avoid when dealing with DVT
Deep vein thrombosis or DVT develops when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body. These blood clots are usually observed in the legs and can cause leg swelling and pain. However, in rare cases, no symptoms or signs can be seen. A few health conditions that affect clotting may also increase the risk of developing the condition. Food can play a role in managing DVT. Signs In most cases, a DVT develops in the arms or legs, and up to 30% of people with the condition do not experience any symptoms. However, in some cases, people may experience mild symptoms that may not raise concerns. So, one should look for signs like swelling in the arm or leg, larger-than-normal veins near the surface, and pain or tenderness in the arms or legs. Other common signs are red or discolored skin, abdominal or flank pain, warm sensation in the affected areas, and severe headache. Foods to avoid In most cases, healthcare professionals may suggest a few lifestyle modifications, including include avoiding a few foods, to better manage DVT and even prevent it. White bread White bread and other refined foods often contain high amounts of starch.

8 constipation mistakes to steer clear of

8 constipation mistakes to steer clear of
Constipation, characterized by irregular bowel movements or difficulty passing stools, is a common condition that affects many people. It may be accompanied by symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite, which add to the discomfort. Various factors, including a lack of fiber in the food, dehydration, specific treatments, and a sedentary lifestyle, can cause constipation. Following are a few mistakes people make when constipated, which worsens their symptoms. Not drinking enough water This is one of the most common mistakes people make when trying to relieve constipation. The stool becomes hard and difficult to pass when the body does not get sufficient water. Experts recommend that individuals drink at least eight glasses of water daily to keep the body hydrated. However, the exact amount of water one needs can vary depending on age and activity levels. Eating fried foods Fried foods like French fries, fried chicken, and onion rings are high in fat and low in fiber. As a result, they can slow down the digestive process, contributing to constipation. Moreover, fried foods are often cooked in oil, which can cause inflammation, increasing the risk of other digestive problems. Therefore, one should limit the intake of fried foods and use healthier cooking methods like grilling, roasting, or baking.

Top 6 fitness mistakes to avoid

Top 6 fitness mistakes to avoid
There are endless physical and mental benefits of consistently following a good workout routine. Apart from their positive effects, many exercises are easy to manage and master over time if one commits to the task. However, it is also common for one to miss key steps and make mistakes while working out. While some lapses may be harmless, others can have serious consequences on health. So, here are critical fitness mistakes to avoid: Choosing only cardio exercises Cardio-based exercises could be running, hiking, cycling, walking, and quick sprints. These exercises boost endurance, stamina, and cardiovascular health. Despite all their benefits for the heart and lungs, only taking up cardio every day would make one miss out on other activities and the benefits they offer. Doing cardio exclusively only enhances some aspects of fitness. For instance, resistance training, which includes strength training exercises like resistance band workouts and plyometric exercises, improves the body’s flexibility and endurance in a different way. It also builds balance, coordination, and stability. So, one needs to prioritize overall fitness by incorporating different types of workouts into their routine. Not drinking enough water Water helps eliminate toxins from the body in the form of sweat and urine.

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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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