Gout is caused by excessive levels of uric acid in the body, which accumulates around a joint in uric crystals resulting in pain, inflammation, and discomfort.
The triggers of a gout attack, also known as a “flare up”, differ from patient to patient in severity and also source. For instance, while stress can trigger a gout attack in some individuals, others may be more susceptible to high uric acid levels after consuming certain types of food or drink. A gout attack (gouty arthritis) typically rears its ugly head due to exposure to certain triggers. Knowing what causes your gout flare ups will help you avoid future gout attacks as well as your specific triggers.
Anxiety or stress, particularly due to being ill from another sickness (i.e., flu, pneumonia, or even medical surgery) can lead to a spike in uric acid production and gouty arthritis. If you see your doctor about another illness or medical matter, advise them you have gout so they can help manage symptoms and avoid a gout flare up.
Believe it or not, medications you take to treat other conditions (i.e., heart disease, hypertension) can often trigger a gout attack. In fact, medical professionals know that certain types of beta blockers, diuretics, and even mild aspirin can trigger gouty arthritis, which is why it’s important your healthcare team is aware you also have gout.
According to arthritis experts, the high fructose corn syrup found in highly processed juices and sodas can trigger a gout attack. So avoid them by swapping soda for water or herbal tea.
Wine, beer and liquor may be a nice accompaniment to dinner, but these alcoholic drinks can also cause uric acid levels to rise. Gouty arthritis due to alcohol is often caused by dehydration, as the kidneys are unable to dispose of excess uric acid in the blood without enough water. Keep in mind that wine is the least linked to gout attacks and can often be enjoyed by gout patients moderately.
Purine is a substance that triggers uric acid production. It makes sense that gout sufferers should avoid foods rich in purine such as seafood (i.e., salmon, anchovies, sardines, mussels) as well as organ meats (i.e., liver) and certain vegetables (i.e., spinach) if they want to avoid a gout flare up.
From mid March to the first week of April every year, when the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments are held, it is referred to as the March Madness. It is aptly named so because the frenzy among sports enthusiasts to witness the champion of this tournament from among the many basketball teams from all over the country is simply mind boggling. These teams clash against each other over the course of three weekends in a single elimination tournament, and it is simply astounding to watch.
Glued to their television sets with excited friends and family for company, there are parties happening every weekend during the season of March Madness. If you are one of those college basketball aficionados and plan to host a March Madness party at your place, then here are some healthy recipes to try at your next March Madness bash. The loud cheers will not stop with the competing teams on television, they would extend unanimously for your treats as well.
This all time favorite snack can be made at home with a little oil or butter and topped with fancied seasonings such as cheese. Otherwise, if you want it a little spicy, then go the Indian way.
For the cheese seasoning, take a couple of spoons of butter in a hot pan. After it melts, add some cheddar cheese powder and some salt to taste. Mix this well with homemade popcorn and it will disappear into hungry stomachs in a flash.
For Indian style spicy seasoning, add a pinch each of turmeric powder, red chilly powder, roasted cumin powder, dry mango powder, and salt to taste in melted butter. Mix this thoroughly with the popcorn and enjoy it immediately.
Wash and soak brown chickpeas in water for six hours. Steam this with some cubed potatoes and salt and then let it cool. In a large bowl, add the chickpeas, potatoes, finely chopped onions and tomatoes, a pinch each of turmeric powder and chili flakes, grated coconut, ginger, and some lemon juice. Mix well and then top this mixture with grated parmesan cheese and let your guests at the March Madness party enjoy this healthy snack.
If you are able to lay your hands on some juicy mangoes, then this delicious vegan lassi will be gulped down thirsty throats after all the cheering for the young players.
In a blender, add two cups of mangoes, three cups of almond or soy milk, one-fourth teaspoon of powdered cardamom, two tablespoons of honey, and a few strands of saffron (optional).
Blend until this becomes a smooth and creamy mixture and then pour in clean glasses, garnish with some fresh mint leaves, and see your guests queuing up for an encore.
Fashion is such an individualized thing. Everyone is different and therefore everyone has personal preferences when it comes to different types of dresses. One thing is true though; it’s important to have at least one versatile and flattering dress in your wardrobe. When determining what type to choose, there are several styles to consider that can be appropriate for different types of events and different figures.
Women today attend many events that require dressing up for the occasion. These may include weddings, dates, parties, work events, and brunch. When looking to buy a dress to suit a wide range of occasions, here are some flattering options for all ages and body types:
1. Wrap dresses
Wrap dresses are exactly what they sound like. These dresses are pulled together with a front closure. One side of the dress is wrapped across the front and then either goes behind the back part of the waist to either be attached by buttons or tied. The construction of this dress creates a v-neck front. It also accentuates the curves of the wearer in the chest area.
2. Maxi dresses
Maxi dresses are a great option for many occasions. They are long and go to the floor. Generally, they are designed to fit the body on the top, and then be flowy and long on the bottom. The fun thing about them is they can feature many different necklines and come in various patterns and colors. This makes them very individualized to the person.
3. A-Line dresses
A-line dresses are named after the shape they take on the body, which is an “A”. They fit to the top part of the body and begin to flare gradually out at the waist and hips, becoming wider as the hem progresses. A-line clothing can be found not just in dresses, but also in coats and skirts.
4. Little black dresses
Everyone has heard of the little black dress. This is such a versatile option that can be found in your closet. It can be dressed up or down for numerous types of events. As a general design, it is usually a simple dress that tends to be quite short. The elegance and simplicity create a fairly blank canvas that allows you to create the exact type of look that you want. Many designers provide limitless options for this much-needed wardrobe essential. Victoria Beckham cocktail dresses are one good brand to consider.
5. Mini dresses
A mini, or short dress that hangs just above the knees is a common style. This design became popular in the 1920’s. It was later revitalized in the 1960s, and has remained an integral part of many wardrobes ever since. A mini shift style dress is a loose-fitting dress that is very comfortable and does not fit tightly around the waist or any part of the body. It is loose at both the hips and the waist so the dress falls loosely down from the shoulders all the way down to the bottom of the dress. Darts are generally located in the bust area. It is a straight silhouette that can be flattering for those that have bodies that are shaped more like a column and it also elongates petite figures as it shows off the legs.
When shopping for dresses, every designer has his or her own individual interpretation. It is fun, and a great idea to look at the individual designers and fashion forward celebrities to find the one that fits your aesthetic most closely. Also, remember that designers also have many other clothing options. As an example, when looking at what stars wear, like Kourtney Kardashian or Victoria Beckham (blouses, skirts, dresses and pants), you might find a designer that the star tends to wear a lot that you can draw inspiration from.
The right handbag can really accentuate your outfit of the day. There are also many styles and functions for different handbags. You could have a handback that works as a daily driver – a bag that you take to run errands or to the store. You could also have a bag that’s perfect for traveling or for a night out. Whatever the case may be, these are five handbags that are sure to be everywhere this season:
1. Versace Chunky Chain Bag
This Versace bag features a chunky chain which really is the stand out feature on this bag. The chain provides a cool effect when you wear it, that really draws your eyes to it. In typical Versace fashion, the chunky chain bag is made of high quality materials and is a great value for the price.
2. Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag
The Lanvin Puffy Cloud Bag is another bag you’ll be seeing a lot of in 2021. This bag is one of the top trends in handbags right now, and for good reason. The Lanvin quality is apparent and you can really wear this on any occasion, formal or casual.
3. Stella McCartney Hobo Bag
The Stella McCartney Hobo bag has a relaxed look about it. It appears slightly slouched in nature, which provides a really cool effect. This bag can be dressed up for a nice, formal event or dressed down for a nice casual day. This bag is incredibly versatile and provides enough room for all of your belongings. It has two slip pockets and an interior compartment for maximum storage. This is one bag that can really do it all.
4. Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag
The Bottega Veneta Fisherman Shoulder Bag is extremely trendy right now, and for good reason. The bag features a scale like pattern which is the standout feature. It also features a shoulder strap for great versatility and a super comfortable wear. The bag features high quality materials and enough room to keep all your belongings stored nicely. This bag leans a bit casual but is a great bag if you’re looking to make a statement throughout the day.
5. Fendi Fluffy Feathers Bag
The Fendi fluffy feathers bag is a bag that’s sure to make a statement. This bag is made of high quality materials, in typical Fendi fashion. The fluffy feathers bag is covered in ostrich feathers. This bag is incredibly unique and will turn all the heads. It’s also very versatile in that all of the straps are detachable so you could wear this as a shoulder bag or as a little handheld purse. When you pair this with a stunning dress, you will be sure to turn heads at any formal event or night out on the town.
These bags can be found at many of your favorite retailers and department stores. Make sure to shop Saks Fifth Avenue bags for the latest in deals and trends for the 2021 year.
Jewelry is the one of the best accent pieces for any outfit you choose to wear. The right necklace, or the right bracelet, can really put the finishing touch on an amazing outfit. You may opt to wear a necklace on a night out, or a set of bangles to run some errands. Either way there are a few styling hacks to help maximize your jewelry. Here are six jewelry styling hacks to follow:
1. Use earrings for a pop of color
It can be a great idea to match a few pieces of jewelry, however, when they’re all very similar in style and color, they can really blend together. To solve this issue, try using earrings to create that pop of color. Earrings can really balance out an outfit
2. Know when it’s too much
Jewelry can provide a great accent to your favorite outfit but you need to be careful you don’t overdo it. By having too much, you’re really taking away from the effect your jewelry adds to your outfit
3. Personalize with statement jewelry
Something like customized wrist bracelets can be super personal. This can be a piece that no one has that truly stands out on its own. These are often hard to duplicate because they’re one of a kind and customized. Check Kay Jewelers clearance sale and see if there’s anything that you could customize and make truly unique
4. Minimal jewelry with patterned clothing
When your outfit is full of patterns, it’s already incredibly loud. Something like stripes or plaid can be a super powerful statement in itself so when picking out jewelry, make sure to keep it minimal. When it’s overdone it can have the opposite effect of what you’re looking for. One simple necklace or bracelet can be a nice, quick addition to a loud outfit with many patterns
5. Create layers with necklaces and bangles
Sometimes when we wear jewelry it can be hard to get the most out of it. Sometimes our jewelry is too thin and won’t really pop with our outfits. That’s where layering comes into play. By layering bangles you can create a super nice, textured set of bracelets that will surely stand out. With necklaces, you want to look at the style and length. By mixing and layering different necklace lengths, you can create the illusion of a much bigger piece and have them all flow together seamlessly. Either way, you really can’t go wrong with layering
6. Mix metals in jewelry
Most jewelry is made of various metals like gold, silver, and platinum. By combining different metals, you can really make them pop. When mixing and matching gold and silver you really create a palate with different colors and materials. It helps them stand out. When you wear all your jewellery in one material or one color, the pieces tend to blend in with each other. Mixing metals will help your pieces to really make a statement
When choosing jewelry, make sure to follow these 6 hacks for best results!
