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Managing heartburn – 5 triggering foods to avoid

Managing heartburn – 5 triggering foods to avoid
Heartburn is a common discomfort that many people experience at some point. It occurs when the acid in the stomach flows into the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the upper body or chest. This may worsen after eating and while lying down or bending over. Heartburn can mostly be managed by making certain lifestyle changes, including avoiding triggering foods. Keep reading to know about which foods to avoid that can trigger heartburn. Chilli Peppers Chilli peppers, known for their spicy kick and vibrant flavor, are a problem when it comes to heartburn. They contain capsaicin, a compound responsible for the fiery sensation in the mouth. Capsaicin also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is a muscular ring that separates the stomach from the esophagus. When the LES is relaxed, it allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, resulting in heartburn. To minimize the risk of heartburn, individuals prone to this condition must consider milder alternatives. Sausages Sausages can trigger heartburn due to their fatty content. These foods slow down the emptying of the stomach, leading to increased pressure on the LES. This pressure can force stomach acid into the esophagus, causing heartburn. Pizza Pizza, a beloved comfort food, can be a heartburn culprit due to its potential triggers:

7 signs of foundation problems in a house

7 signs of foundation problems in a house
The foundation of a house functions as the backbone of the structure, providing essential stability and support and ensuring that the building stands strong in the years to come. However, over time, various factors can cause foundation problems that, if left unattended, may result in costly repairs. This article explores the telltale signs that a house may be experiencing foundation issues, assisting homeowners in identifying and addressing these problems in a timely manner. Cracks in the walls One of the most common indicators of foundation problems is the appearance of cracks in walls, both inside and outside the house. These cracks may start small but can widen over time. Horizontal cracks, in particular, are a cause for concern, as they often suggest a shifting or settling foundation. Vertical cracks can also be problematic, especially if they are wider at the top than the bottom, as they may indicate sinking or settlement issues. Uneven or sloping floors Noteworthy signs of foundation problems include floors that are no longer level or that slope in specific areas. This can manifest as a noticeable tilt in a room or a feeling of unsteadiness when walking. Uneven floors are typically the result of foundation settlement, which can cause various parts of the house to sink at different rates.

5 clear signs of halitosis

5 clear signs of halitosis
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a prevalent concern usually brought on by certain foods, health conditions, and habits. Persistent bad breath can impact social interactions. Often, one may not be aware that they have halitosis, as their own senses adapt to the symptoms over time. So, recognizing its signs is the first step toward addressing this concern. Here is a look at the top signs of the condition: Persistent unpleasant odor One of the most prominent signs of halitosis is a persistent and unpleasant odor arising from the mouth. This odor often lingers despite regular brushing and oral hygiene practices. It is crucial to distinguish between temporary bad breath, which can be caused by pungent foods, and the long-lasting, foul breath associated with halitosis. Lingering bad taste Those with halitosis often complain of a persistent, unpleasant taste in their mouths. This taste may be described as metallic, bitter, or foul. It can linger throughout the day and may intensify after having certain foods or beverages. Dry mouth Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by rinsing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria. When the mouth does not produce enough saliva, a condition known as xerostomia or dry mouth can occur.

8 things one should never clean with paper towels

8 things one should never clean with paper towels
Wiping surfaces and other items with paper towels is an easy way to clean them quickly. Once the towel has served its purpose, the individual can throw it away and use another. However, some surfaces and products should never be cleaned with paper towels. While one might get that region dry and sparkly clean, it could damage it in the long run. On that note, one should avoid cleaning these eight things with a paper towel. Electronics Several people use paper towels to clean electronics like televisions, laptops, and smartphones, especially the screens. But while it might not look like it, paper towels are abrasive in nature. So when an individual uses the towel, it could scratch the body of the device and even the screen. Instead, one should use a microfiber cloth dedicated to cleaning these surfaces. Cutting boards It’s easy to want to wipe a cutting board with a paper towel to soak meat juices because it’s convenient and quick. But one should know that the towel might not absorb the liquid as well as it should, causing one to use more, which results in a lot of wastage. A clean, damp cloth that is washable and reusable is better suited to clean cutting boards with such residue.

5 early warning signs of hereditary angioedema

5 early warning signs of hereditary angioedema
Hereditary Angioedema or HAE, as referred by specialists, is a rare condition that is passed down genetically. It affects the immune system, causing erratic control over inflammatory responses. As a result, one might experience swelling in vital organs, primarily affecting the skin, respiration, and even the gastrointestinal tract. HAE symptoms may develop as early as puberty or later during adulthood and present moderate to severe symptoms. Here is a brief overview. Common triggers of HAE HAE can be the result of stress, anxiety, or even develop as a side effect of certain prescriptions given to manage other known conditions. Further, complications from a surgical procedure, underlying chronic illnesses, allergic reactions to certain foods or beverages, and even external environmental factors can result in the following symptoms. Skin problems Visible changes in the texture and surface of the skin are among the first signs of developing angioedema. Skin tightness and a tingling sensation are among the first signs of skin problems that one might notice. The severity of the disease progression will determine the intensity of the swelling. Initially, there is no pain, but as the symptoms persist, swelling in the hands, feet, face, mouth, genitals, and even the buttocks, where the skin will become more painful to touch.

5 common mistakes people make with their fridge

5 common mistakes people make with their fridge
It is a common practice for many people to stuff their grocery haul into the fridge and call it a day. While stocking a fridge is quick and easy, this approach can do more harm than good. It can increase the risk of food spoilage and hamper the optimal functioning of the fridge. To ensure the appliance’s durability and lower the risk of food spoilage, avoid these common mistakes people often make with their fridge. Not making the most of the fridge space A common problem many face is that the fridge space is not enough to store everything they want. But if one looks closely, they will find many things inside the fridge that have eaten up some necessary space—for instance, bottles of expired sauces or juice boxes and yogurt tubs that have gone bad. A common mistake many people commit is forgetting to declutter their fridge, making it difficult for them to make the most of the available space. Keeping the temperature too high or too low It is important to set the fridge temperature at the correct level depending on the weather conditions. For instance, the fridge temperature can be at the lower end during warm and hot months and towards the higher end during colder months.

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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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