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  • A Guide to Pollen Allergies A Guide to Pollen Allergies

    Pollen can cause allergies and hay fever, and this is a very common problem in the country. Pollen is a powdery substance produced by flowers and trees. Many people show adverse effects when they breathe in pollen. Usually, when a harmful invader like bacteria or virus enters the body, the immune system starts to fight against it. However, some people face a problem whereby their immune system starts attacking pollen when it enters the body, even though it is not harmful. This response is known as an allergic reaction, and the pollen is known as the allergens.

    Many people face this problem throughout the year while others have to deal with it only during a specific time of the year.

    Pollen count
    Pollen count is the level of pollen present in the atmosphere in a particular place. Checking this count is quite useful for the people who suffer from a pollen allergy. Based on the weather condition, the count will vary from place to place. An allergist carries out this test which helps us know the exact pollen count in an area. When you have an idea about the pollen levels outside, you will be able to plan your outdoor activities with ease.

    Usually, there are three levels of pollen count — low, medium, and high. Sometimes, you can also find detailed information about which kind of pollen is present in the air in a specific area.

    How is pollen counted and measured?
    The allergist will place a pollen counter on the top of a building. With the help of these pollen counters, air is collected through different methods available. The allergist will also place a microscopic glass on the top of the building with a jelly-like substance on it. The pollen sticks to the glass because of this substance. Experts will then examine the glass and calculate the levels of pollen. In this way, one gets the pollen count in an area. When the count is high, people suffering from an allergy will have face adverse reactions if they go out.

    Usually, most people with pollen allergies face problems in the winter. As the climate is dry, windy, and warm, it results in a high pollen count.

    Symptoms of a pollen allergy
    People with a pollen allergy exhibit various kinds of symptoms, and you need to monitor these symptoms carefully. You should also start your treatment before the condition worsens. Here are some of the more common signs:

    • Facial pain due to sinus pressure
    • Nasal congestion
    • Watery and itchy eyes
    • A runny nose
    • Coughing
    • Scratchy throat
    • Severe asthmatic reactions
    • No sense of smell or taste
    • Swollen eyes

    Tips to avoid the symptoms of a pollen allergy
    The best way to get rid of a pollen allergy is to stay away from the allergens. So, when the pollen count is high, it is suggested that you should avoid stepping out of the house.

    • When there is a forecast for dry and windy days, it is best to stay indoors.
    • When the pollen count is high, keep the doors and windows of the house closed.
    • Make sure that you are wearing a dust mask if you step out of the house on a dry and windy day.
    • Talk to your doctor to get medications that can provide relief from the allergic reaction.
    • If your medication is not working well, then your doctor may suggest taking allergy shots. These allergy shots work well and provide quick relief.

    Home remedies for pollen allergy

    • Always try to use HEPA filters in the house, even if you keep the doors and windows closed all the time.
    • When you step out of the house and step back in, you should change your clothes as there are chances that pollen gets stuck on your clothes while you are out.
    • Do not dry your clothes outside on the clothing line. You should dry them in a dryer.
    • Always use air conditioners in your car rather than keeping the windows open.
    • Try to sneeze out the pollen if you feel that it is in your nose.
    • Make sure that you clean the house and all furniture regularly using a vacuum cleaner.

    Not many people worry about the pollen count, but it can affect your health. If the count is low, then minimal care is enough. However, if the pollen count is high, you need to make sure that you take proper care and precautions. If you are allergic to a specific kind of pollen, you should try to find out if it is present in the air before you start worrying. You can consult an allergist who tests the air as they can provide the required information to you.

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  • 10 Home Remedies for Treating Hemorrhoids 10 Home Remedies for Treating Hemorrhoids

    Hemorrhoids, or more commonly known as piles, are clusters of veins which lie just beneath the mucous membranes which line the lowest part of the rectum and the anus. This condition involves swelling and distension of those veins.

    Internal and external hemorrhoids are the two types of this condition. Internal ones occur in the lower rectum whereas the external ones develop under the skin around the anus. It is widely considered that external hemorrhoids are the ones which are the most painful and uncomfortable since the overlying skin erodes due to irritation. Moreover, if there is a blood clot on the inside of external hemorrhoid, then the pain can get much more severe.

    How can one recognize external hemorrhoids?

    • Itchy or burning sensation around the anus
    • A painful lump or swollen area near the anus
    • Difficulty in sitting down
    • Painful bowel movements
    • Fecal incontinence

    There are different types of both homemade and surgical remedies available for curing external hemorrhoids. Some of the common ones have been explained in brief as follows:

    • Witch hazel: Witch hazel is an astringent which causes tissues to shrink and reduce bruising. Along with this, it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. To use it, one has to add a small amount of witch hazel to a cotton ball and then dab it on the affected area to get relief from the symptoms. However, if there are signs of irritation, then one should go for a more indirect method. It is advised to not add alcohol to witch hazel in an attempt to dilute it as it can cause further irritation.
    • Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and can help with hemorrhoid symptoms like reducing irritation and swelling. Moreover, it can also reduce provide relief from the itchiness experienced.
    • Aloe vera: Aloe vera is a popular anti-inflammatory plant which is used widely to treat wounds along with a variety of other issues. Aloe vera can help in the treatment of external hemorrhoids by providing relief from itching, burning, and swelling. However, it is important to ensure that one uses aloe vera in its pure form as using store-bought aloe vera gel could contain preservatives and additives that could worsen the symptoms.
    • Ice packs: Applying ice packs to ease inflammation and pain is a common tactic that is widely used in various cases. One can apply ice packs wrapped in a small towel for around 15 minutes or so when seated or when the hemorrhoids flare up so as to reduce the swelling and temporarily numb the pain experienced.
    • A warm bath: This common trick works, especially if one includes Epsom salt in their bath as it can help ease the symptoms of external hemorrhoids. Some people, however, prefer to add apple cider vinegar as well. One can then sit in the warm bath with water that submerges the legs so as to help reduce swelling and irritation.
    • Fiber-rich diet: Making lifestyle changes, such as including more fiber in one’s diet, can also provide relief from hemorrhoids. This is because fiber can absorb water which can soften the stool and can aid in better bowel movements.
    • Drinking plenty of liquids: Research states that problems like hemorrhoids can be caused by the lack of liquids in the diet. The solution to this is simple—to drink plenty of liquids throughout the day. This will help in keeping the stool soft which will result in less irritation while passing it.
    • Proper clothes: Wearing loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear and pants can help support the healing of hemorrhoids by preventing the surrounding area from getting irritated due to excess sweat.
    • Correct bathroom habits: It’s important to not stress bowel movements since straining might make the condition worse. It’s best to wait for a couple of minutes and then get up to try later if the bowel movement hasn’t occurred. Having a regular schedule for passing stools will help. People suffering from hemorrhoids should listen to their body and pass the stools accordingly.
    • Wipes: When it comes to hemorrhoids, softness is the key and, therefore, using toilet paper which is less irritating or without additives will help. Alcohol-free baby wipes and damp toilet papers will help provide relief during wiping. Moreover, hemorrhoid-specific wipes or wet wipes can be purchased for better effects.
    • Surgical treatments: If the hemorrhoid is intense and one is unable to get any form of relief, then it is best to seek medical attention. Hemorrhoids can be removed through hemorrhoidectomy or by burning the affected tissue with an infrared laser and electrical coagulation. Another method used is sclerotherapy that helps reduce the hemorrhoids.

    External hemorrhoids are extremely sensitive and proper care should be taken to prevent chemicals or perfumes from getting in the affected area. With the right care, one can experience great relief from the pain caused by external hemorrhoids.

  • Kegel Exercises and Their Significance for Both Men and Women Kegel Exercises and Their Significance for Both Men and Women

    We all lay focus on hitting the gym and indulging in heavy workouts to keep the body in shape, but did you know that there are several other exercises that are equally important to keep some parts of the body, which are not visible otherwise, healthy and strong? One such area of the body is the pelvic floor, and Kegel exercises and the best Kegel exercisers are recommended for this.

    Kegel exercises involve exercises that make the pelvic area of the body stronger. Pelvic area is the one between the hips and has the reproductive organs of an individual. Strengthening of this area is usually done by stretching the muscles and then clenching the same to put pressure on the pelvic floor. So, why should we resort to the best Kegel exerciser to strengthen the pelvic area? Well, the answer is simple; a stronger pelvic area leads to a better ability to control the bladder or bowel. Kegel exercises are quite easy to undertake and carry out, and once you start these exercises, you will be able to perform them anywhere, anytime.

    Kegel exercises can be done by both men and women; however, it is recommended that before jumping into any particular exercise, you must consult with the doctor if you have any health issues. Poor health of the pelvic floor in men can lead to erectile dysfunction and incontinence associated with orgasm. To overcome these problems, men should work on making their pelvic stronger. Women tend to have a weakened pelvis floor owing to pregnancy, weight gain, and aging. A stronger pelvic area supports the womb, bowels, and bladder and hence such exercises are a must for women as well. Kegel exercises are also important to be practiced as several pelvic-related problems start surfacing with age, which can make the routine bodily activities cumbersome.

    The following Kegel exercises are the best to bring about remarkable outcomes:

    • The bridge is the exercise wherein a person lies down on the floor and lifts the area below the waist at an angle of 30-45 degrees with the feet touching the ground. It is beneficial for both the pelvic and glutes. Keep the body in that position for 2-4 minutes initially and once you get comfortable with it, you can extend the time. It strengthens the abdominal muscles as well, which helps in giving you a toned body.
    • Clamshell is the next exercise on our list, which can be done without any prop. Here, you lie down straight on any side of the body, with or without your hand under your head. Lift the leg that is on the upper side with the thigh area perpendicular to the body and the calf and foot perpendicular to the thigh. Just like the bridge exercise, this one should be started with 2-4 minutes and extended with time and comfort. Such exercises are beneficial for sexual health as well.
    • If you wish to add some fun to your Kegel exercises such as introducing some dance moves, stand straight with your legs a little apart, place your hands on the hips, and shake your hips side to side. Do this exercise with your life partner to add more fun and excitement to the exercising session.
    • CalExotics’ Inspire Remote Kegel Exerciser is considered the best Kegel exerciser that produces good results with minimum strain on the muscles. The exercise is meant for women only. Working out becomes super easy with this Kegel exerciser, which is one of the best ones.
    • Je Jou’s Ami Set is another instrument to help you undertake the task of strengthening the pelvic area conveniently. It comprises of three ball-like instruments made of silicon. The strings on the ball are to be pulled gently against the instrument so that pressure is exerted on the kegel.
      These are just a few of the several exercises that people, especially women, can perform to make their pelvic healthier and to strengthen it. If one is not certain about how to do a freehand Kegel exercise properly, they can resort to any of the best Kegel exercisers that can be purchased from the market. For better and faster results, you can take professional guidance from doctors and professional gym trainers as well.

    If anyone who has just started doing or has been doing Kegel exercises experiences pain in the abdominal area, they should stop it immediately. There are chances that they have been doing it wrong. If you are certain about the techniques of the exercise that you have been following and still feel some sort of pain, get in touch with your doctor. Over usage of anything comes with adverse side-effects; hence if you are in the mood of leveraging the benefits of Kegel exercises in a short time, don’t push yourself beyond capacity. It will only worsen the situation. Just have some patience before the exercises start reflecting the desired results.

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  • Causes of Bad Breath and Ways to Cure It
    Causes of Bad Breath and Ways to Cure It

    Halitosis or as it is commonly known, bad breath, is an embarrassing condition. Gum, mints, mouthwashes, and other products designed to fight bad breath are only temporary measures as they don’t address the cause of the problem. Some food items, health conditions, and habits are the main causes of bad breath. You can cure bad breath with proper and consistent dental hygiene. The malodor may vary depending on the underlying cause. If self-care techniques don’t work, it is best to see your dentist or physician to make sure that it isn’t a symptom of other serious condition.

    Symptoms
    Some people may have bad breath and don’t know about it. Other people worry too much about their breath even though they have little or no mouth odor. It is hard to self-assess your breath. Therefore, ask a close friend or relative to check if you have bad breath.

    Causes
    There are many probable causes for bad breath. They are:

    • Food
      The breakdown of food particles in your mouth increases bacteria and causes a foul odor. When you eat certain foods like onions, garlic, and spices, they enter your bloodstream, are carried to your lungs, and affect your breath.
    • Tobacco products
      Smokers and oral tobacco users are prone to having gum diseases, which could lead to bad breath. Tobacco has an unpleasant odor as well.
    • Poor dental hygiene
      Food particles remain in your mouth and cause bad breath if you don’t brush and floss daily. Plaque, a colorless and sticky film of bacteria, forms on your teeth. This plaque can irritate your gums and eventually form plaque-filled pockets between your teeth and gums if you don’t brush regularly. Not only your teeth, but the tongue can also trap bacteria that produce odors.
    • Dry mouth or xerostomia
      Saliva helps cleanse your mouth. If you have a problem with your salivary glands, it may result in chronic dry mouth. Dryness can contribute to bad breath due to a reduction in the production of saliva. Bad breath in the morning occurs due to dry mouth while sleeping. If you sleep with your mouth open, it gets worse.
    • Medications
      Some medications result in a dry mouth and indirectly contributes to bad breath.
    • Infections
      If you have a surgical wound after oral surgery or tooth decay, gum disease or mouth sores, it may result in bad breath. Sometimes bad breath stems from small stones that form in the tonsils which are covered with odor-producing bacteria. Also, infections in the nose, sinuses or throat can cause bad breath.

    Treatment

    Dental measures
    To cure bad breath, your dentist may recommend a toothpaste that carries an antibacterial agent to kill the bacteria that cause plaque buildup. Your dentist may recommend a mouth rinse that kills the bacteria if your bad breath is due to a buildup of bacteria (plaque) on your teeth. You may be referred to a gum specialist (periodontist) if you have gum disease. Gum disease can cause gums to pull away from your teeth, leaving deep pockets in which the odor-causing bacteria may accumulate. You may require the help of a dentist as sometimes only professional cleaning removes these bacteria. It is also recommended to replace faulty tooth restorations which are a breeding ground for bacteria.

    Lifestyle and home remedies
    Follow these habits to cure bad breath:

    • Brush your teeth after each meal: You may keep a toothbrush at work to use after eating. Brush twice a day using fluoride-containing toothpaste. Toothpaste with antibacterial features has been proven to cure bad breath.
    • Floss once a day: Flossing can cure bad breath by removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
    • Clean your tongue: Your tongue is a shelter for bacteria, therefore brushing or cleaning it with a tongue scraper may help cure bad breath. You may use a toothbrush that has a built-in tongue cleaner. If you have a coated tongue due to smoking or dry mouth, it is recommended to use a tongue scraper as there might be a significant overgrowth of bacteria.
    • Clean your dentures or dental appliances: Clean dentures thoroughly at least once a day or as directed by your dentist. Make sure to clean the dental retainer or mouth guard each time before you put it in your mouth.
    • Keep your mouth moist: You can prevent bad breath by avoiding tobacco and drinking plenty of water (not coffee, soft drinks or alcohol, which can lead to a dry mouth). To stimulate saliva, chew on gum or suck a candy, preferably sugarless. Your dentist or physician may prescribe an artificial saliva preparation or an oral medication that stimulates the flow of saliva if you have a chronic dry mouth.
    • Remodel your diet: Avoiding foods like onions and garlic will help to cure bad breath. Also, avoid eating a lot of sweet foods as it can lead to bad breath.
    • Regularly change your toothbrush: Get a new toothbrush when it becomes frayed. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush about every three to four months.
    • See your dentist regularly: Schedule regular dental checkups, at least twice a year, to examine and clean your teeth or dentures.

    Depending on the cause, the treatment for bad breath can vary. Consistently practice good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of gum disease, and try to avoid cavities for a healthy, confident, and fresh breath.

  • 6 FDA-approved medications to treat lung cancer
    6 FDA-approved medications to treat lung cancer

    6 FDA-approved medications to treat lung cancer

    One of the leading causes of cancer deaths, lung cancer has been known to claim more lives every year than prostate, colon, breast, and ovarian cancer together. It begins in the lungs and, depending on the stage, can spread to other parts of the body as well. Lung cancer has multiple causes. However, people who tend to smoke are at a higher risk of lung cancer. The risk increases with the length of time and the number of cigarettes smoked. Other causes include passive smoking, exposure to radon gas, exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens, and a family history of lung cancer.

    Lung cancer causes coughing that doesn’t go away. Additionally, a person suffering from lung cancer can cough up blood, and experience shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, bone pain, and headache. Treatment usually includes surgery and medications. The below-mentioned medications are FDA-approved and need to be taken only when prescribed by a medical expert.

    • Xalkori: Also known as crizotinib, Xalkori has been approved by the FDA for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Earlier prescribed to those with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, this medication is now recommended to those with ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer that had started spreading. It works as an inhibitor in targeted therapy. It blocks the changes in lung cancer cells and that interferes with the growth and spread of the cancerous cells.
    • Tagrisso: Also called osimertinib, Tagrisso is used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. The medication is a type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI); it inhibits an enzyme known as tyrosine kinases, which is involved in cell signaling. Tyrosine kinases are involved in the stimulation of cell division and are active in the uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells. Tagrisso controls these enzymes and blocks the growth and spread of cancerous cells.
    • Alecensa: This medication is used for the treatment of ALK-positive metastatic (advanced) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). ALK is the anaplastic lymphoma kinase gene. In lung cancer patients, the chromosomal rearrangement of the gene causes the formation of fusion proteins in cancerous tissues. ALK then causes the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells. Also known as alectinib, Alcensa targets and interrupts ALK from stimulating the growth of cancerous cells. Additionally, it blocks the growth of the tumor and causes cancer cells to die, thus reducing the size of the tumor.
    • Gilotrif: Also known as Afatinib and Giotrif, Gilotrif is an anti-cancer medication useful for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. It is used for targeted treatment with better outcomes and lesser side effects. This medication works as an irreversible inhibitor of the tyrosine kinases EGRF and HER2. It slows down the progression of lung cancer.
    • Iressa: Also known as gefitinib, Iressa is prescribed for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is generally recommended when NSCLC has spread to other parts of the body. Iressa is prescribed to those who have specific mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene and have not undergone any previous cancer treatments. This medication works as a kinase inhibitor and blocks the proteins that aid in the growth of cancer cells. It slows down the growth of cancerous cells and reduces the size of the tumor.
    • Alimta: This lung cancer medication is specifically prescribed for non-small cell lung cancer. It is a folate analog metabolic inhibitor. Alimta is generally used in combination with platinum chemotherapy and other medications.
  • Common Signs and Symptoms of Eye Diseases
    Common Signs and Symptoms of Eye Diseases

    Eyes are the most complex organs in the entire human body. The cornea, iris, pupil, lens and retina are the different parts of an eye that work together to ensure clear vision. Eye diseases are a global health issue and adversely affect the mental and physical health of a person. A person affected with eye diseases may sink into depression and face social withdrawal too. Moreover, a significant loss in the quality of life is expected in affected people due to impairment in day to day activities.

    According to a report, cataract affects 24.4 million Americans and by the age of 75, half of the Americans develop a cataract. An estimated 2.7 million Americans has glaucoma and approximately 2.1 million have age-related macular degeneration. This data shows the high prevalence of eye disorders in the population. A few eye diseases’ symptoms are listed below. An eye issue can be suspected if a person shows symptoms related to vision, the appearance of the eye, or feels pain and sensations in one or both eyes.

    Signs and symptoms of eye diseases

    • Eyestrain: Eyestrain is one of the common eye diseases’ symptoms indicating long working hours on computers, continuous reading or driving. Strain in eyes indicates overuse of eyes, and the common symptom is tiredness in eyes. Whenever eyestrain is observed, give some rest to the eyes. If the symptoms persist for a few days, consult a doctor immediately.
    • Red eyes: The surface of our eyes are covered with blood vessels, and they dilate during an infection or irritation. This gives a red appearance to the eyes. Red eyes can happen due to eyestrain, lack of sleep or due to an allergen. Moreover, red eyes can also indicate other eye disorders such as damage due to sun exposure or conjunctivitis. In case of persistent red eyes, an immediate consolation with an eye specialist is a must.
    • Night blindness: People suffering from night blindness face difficulties in night vision. It can be due to nutritional deficiency such as vitamin A or an indicator of other eye problems such as cataract, near-sightedness or keratoconus. It can be due to genetic factors also.
    • Lazy eye or amblyopia: In amblyopia, one eye does not develop properly, and one of the common eye diseases’ symptoms of amblyopia is weak eyesight.
    • Blurry vision: It can affect both the eyes and it is one of the most common eye diseases symptoms associated with vision issues. Blurry vision may indicate loss of a specific part of the eye(s) and the affected person may not be able to focus clearly.
    • Double vision: In a double vision, a person is unable to see clear images. It can develop due to misalignment of eyes, nausea or a headache.
    • Impaired depth perception: The affected person is unable to distinguish the distance of objects from him.
    • Cloudy appearance of the eyes: It may indicate cataract which develops due to protein build up in the lens.
    • Color-blindness: Color-blindness is a genetic disorder and affected individuals can not differentiate between red and green colors. It develops due to absence or non-functioning of cone cells in the eye. In severe cases of color-blindness, a person only sees shades of grey. However, in a few cases, color-blindness is not genetic and can develop due to certain medications and disorders. In cases where the disorder is genetic, no treatment option is available.
    • Uveitis: One of the common eye disease symptoms associated with uveitis is inflammation in uvea, a middle layer in the eye, rich in blood vessels. Uveitis can cause considerable damage to the eye and may lead to vision loss. A few common symptoms are pain, redness, and blurred vision.
    • Ocular pain: In this condition, the surface of the eye and eye orbitals feel pain. It can be caused due to injury, scratch or presence of small foreign objects such as dust particles. This may damage the cornea and cause red eye.
    • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): AMD generally affects people above the age of 65. In AMD, the middle part of the retina called macula degenerates. A few eye disease symptoms associated with AMD are blurred vision, problems in reading and recognition of faces and color distortion.
    • Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of disorders which damages the optic nerve. An increased intraocular pressure is responsible for glaucoma. It may lead to complete loss of vision.

    Conclusion
    Vision is a complex phenomenon. Several parts of the eye collectively work together for proper vision. Hence, any symptom or sign of disease should be taken seriously and the help of a medical practitioner is highly desirable to deal with the problem at the earliest.

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  • Effective Ways to Lower Blood Sugar Levels Effective Ways to Lower Blood Sugar Levels

    Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar is one of the most common lifestyle-associated disorders. It is characterized by a high level of blood sugar level called hyperglycemia. In a healthy person, the normal range of blood sugar is 70-130 mg/dL between meals which can spike to 180 mg/dL 1–2 hours post meals. A chronic hyperglycemia can be detrimental to the blood vessels, nerve tissues, and several other body organs. According to a new study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the country alone, more than 100 million adults are suffering from high blood sugar. There are several ways in which the question of how to control blood sugar can be answered. However, before looking into that, let us know about the complications that high blood sugar can lead to.

    Complications caused due to high blood sugar
    Uncontrolled high sugar levels can lead to nerve and kidney damage, cardiovascular disorders, damage to eye lens, damage to retina which may cause complete blindness, higher chances of skin infections, infections in teeth and gums, and slow healing of an injury.

    Smart ways to control blood sugar
    The following tips can help one on how to control their blood sugar. However, an expert advice or consultation must be sought before starting any medication or natural treatment.

    • Avoid huge meals: A diabetic patient is advised to keep his/her meal size small. This helps in effective regulation of blood sugar. However, one should not skip a meal.
    • Add resistant starch to diet: The addition of resistant starch in the diet is one of the best ways to control blood sugar. Resistant starch bypasses the small intestine and subsequently gets digested by the “good bacteria” present in the large intestine. This helps in lowering the blood sugar effectively. This phenomenon is often referred to as the “second-meal” effect. Resistant starch is commonly found in beans, lentils, corn, and unripe bananas.
    • Beans: It has been reported that daily consumption of a cup of beans for around 3 months helps in lowering blood sugar effectively. Moreover, beans are rich in folate, which is known to reduce the chances of cardiovascular disease.
    • Regular exercise: Excess body weight causes insulin resistance. This leads to higher blood sugar levels. It is widely believed that losing mere 5-pounds may improve the blood glucose levels.
    • Sleep: Chronic sleep deprivation contributes to high blood sugar levels. According to a study, sleep-deprived volunteers had higher levels of fatty acids. Fatty acids are known to cause insulin resistance, thus hindering with normal insulin action and causing higher blood sugar levels. Around 7 hours of sound sleep is generally recommended for one’s overall well being.
    • Increase fiber intake: Fibers are slow to digest as they allow for a gradual rise in blood sugar levels, thus preventing a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. Soluble fibers are more effective in blood sugar management when compared with insoluble fiber.
    • Don’t skip breakfast: A diabetic person should never skip their breakfast because, after 8–12 hours of fasting, the body needs glucose to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
    • Eat low glycemic index (GI) food: Another answer for how to control blood sugar levels is to consume foods with a lower glycemic index. They are slow to digest and cause a gradual rise in blood sugar levels. Regular consumption of low GI food has been reported to reduce long-term blood sugar levels in diabetics. A few foods with low GI are corn, yams, non-starchy vegetables, lentils, and beans.
    • Stress: Stress increases the levels of glucagon and cortisol in the blood. These hormones cause a rise in blood glucose levels. Exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques are usually recommended to reduce the blood sugar levels by lowering the stress levels.

    Some more natural remedies
    Several natural remedies are available for lowering the blood sugar levels. A few of them are listed below:

    • Drink copper water: Water stored overnight in a copper vessel can help in controlling blood sugar. It is one of the easiest and common home remedies for diabetes control.
    • Bitter gourd: Charanthin, a natural compound present in bitter gourd, is a great way to lower blood sugar levels. It does its job by stimulating insulin secretion from the pancreas.
    • Cinnamon: Cinnamon is rich in various bioactive compounds such as cinnamate and cinnamic acid. It lowers blood sugar level by triggering insulin activity.
    • Fenugreek: It is one of the most effective strategies for controlling blood sugar. It is rich in dietary fiber and helps in proper absorption of blood sugar.

    The incidence of high blood sugar has emerged as a global epidemic. A common cause for this is a sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, and dietary changes. Chronic hyperglycemia adversely affects almost all organs of the body. A significant change in diet and lifestyle is essentially required for the effective management of blood sugar and even for lowering blood sugar levels.

  • Foods to have to help manage depression Foods to have to help manage depression

    Depression is a medical illness wherein a person’s moods, thoughts, actions, and emotions are adversely impacted by factors such as one’s biochemistry, genetics, personality, and environmental factors. It is a treatable disorder, but the stigma surrounding it has made most people hesitate to reach out for help. Once diagnosed, the individual can opt for medication and therapy as forms of treatment. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary changes go a long way in helping manage the condition.

    Food plays a huge role in the way one feels about the day. It affects one’s moods, energy levels, and enthusiasm. A diet deficient in any nutrient is likely to leave one feeling weak, but a healthy, well-balanced diet can be a useful method of treatment for most diseases.

    There is no such diet that can relieve a person from depression. However, there are certain diet plans or types of food that can definitely help a person deal with the symptoms of depression in a better way. The overall health of a person is also improved with a healthy diet. Given below are foods that must be had, or avoided, to help boost mental health and fight depression.

    Molecules called free radicals are produced by the body normally, but these can damage the cells, lead to aging, as well as other problems. To be able to reduce the destructive impact of these molecules, one is advised to consume foods high in antioxidants. Sweet potato, broccoli, cantaloupe, apricots, spinach, carrots, pumpkin, peaches, and collards contain beta carotene.

    Examples of rich sources of vitamin C include tomatoes, blueberries, peppers, potatoes, kiwi, broccoli, strawberries, oranges, and grapefruits, while seeds and nuts, wheat germ, margarine, and vegetable oils contain vitamin E.

    It is recommended to choose the kind of carbs consumed wisely, as the nutrient is linked to the mood-boosting brain chemical, serotonin. One needs to avoid the intake of sugary foods which are considered to be simple carbs and consume complex carbs like whole grains. One can also opt for legumes, fruits, and vegetables that have healthy carbs and fiber.

    It is important to keep in mind that protein-rich foods help boost awareness. Food items like tuna, chicken, and turkey are sources of an amino acid called tryptophan, which is believed to help one produce serotonin. One should consume meals that are rich in protein several times during the day, especially when they want to clear their head and boost their energy levels. Some of the food items that provide healthy proteins are peas, beans, yogurt, soy products, milk, fish, poultry, low-fat cheese, and lean meats.

    Aside from these, there are food items which aren’t the best for one’s mental health, making it advisable to restrict their consumption. If one is suffering from depression, it is crucial for them to get a good night’s rest. Food and drinks that contain caffeine may cause anxiety in a person, making it difficult to go to sleep at night. Reducing the caffeine intake will help one fall asleep easier, thereby aiding in recovery.

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  • Ohio Cancer Research Associates
    50 W Broad St Ste 1132ColumbusOH
    (180) 023 - 2627