Boosting your immune system is more important now than ever. Often people turn to cold flu medicine to treat the symptoms. The body is naturally able to fight off the common cold and flu naturally. Some foods are able to boost your immune system to an even greater level. Doing so will help your body fight off viruses keeping you from getting sick.
Below are five foods that will boost your immune system to prevent you from getting sick in the first place:
1. Citrus fruits
Many people already reach for the orange juice when they feel cold symptoms coming on. The Vitamin C inside helps increase your immune system. Other citrus fruits such as grapefruit, lemons, and limes also contain high levels. The body does not store vitamin C so having a daily supply is very important.
2. Garlic
Throughout the world, it is often found in many dishes as it does add flavor. This superfood may decrease the hardening of arteries and lower blood pressure. The Superfood has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-fungal characteristics. Also believed to be able to fight infections. The allicin may help boost white blood cells to attack viruses.
3. Ginger
This root superfood is believed to have the ability to decrease inflammation. A sore throat diminished with a reduction in inflammation. Nausea may also be reduced with the help of this root superfood. Many look to ginger to assist in inhibiting mucous production. The body benefits from reduced congestion when mucous production is reduced. When combined with garlic and lime they may offer antibacterial benefits. Additionally, they may have a greater resistance to bacteria.
4. Spinach
When seeking food rich in vitamin C rarely do people think of spinach. Yet, spinach is a great source of daily vitamin C to help boost the body’s immune system. Additionally, spinach contains high levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants help the body boost the body’s ability to fight infections. Foods rich in antioxidants help to get rid of cold sores as well. Not all sources of spinach are the same. Cooking spinach does decrease the nutrients, while also increasing the vitamin A level. Enjoying a balance of cooked and raw spinach will ensure a diverse supply of nutrients to help boost your immune system.
5. Chicken soup
When sick reaching for a cup of warm soup does more than you think. Poultry may actually help lower inflammation. Meaning the symptoms of a cold could improve simply by enjoying a cup of soup. Poultry is a great source of vitamin B-6 which is important for keeping red blood cells healthy. The broth from chicken soup contains gelatin and other nutrients. These are helpful for gut healing and result in a boost to the immune system.
Nobody wants to get sick with a cold or flu. So boosting your immune system can be a great way to keep your body from getting sick. Taking cold flu medicine is important when you are sick. Keeping your body from getting sick in the first place can be the best solution. Keep that in mind when planning your next meal. Adding in these immune-boosting foods may keep you healthy in the first place.
If you suffer from acid reflux, you’ve probably spent hours searching for ways to stop heartburn. One of the most common causes of this disease is a stomach disorder known as a hiatal hernia, which is when the upper section of the stomach and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) shift themselves above the diaphragm, which is the barrier between the chest and stomach, and keeps stomach acids where it belongs. Acid leaks up into the esophagus, causing reflux symptoms.
Triggers of acid reflux include overeating, being pregnant, obesity, acidic, carbonated, or spicy foods. Symptoms besides heartburn include bitter regurgitation, bloating, and nausea. Thankfully, there are natural remedies to help improve your condition in case you feel the onset of symptoms:
1. Sleep on an incline
The position you’re in during and after a large meal can have a huge impact on the state of reflux. If you’re bent at an angle while eating, or if you lie down soon afterwards, you run an increased risk of acid reflux. If you lie at an incline when it’s time to sleep, you’ll be using gravity to weigh down your stomach/LES so they don’t breach the diaphragm. The acid in your stomach will also be encouraged not to shift unfavorably.
2. Quit smoking
Put the cigarette down if you haven’t already. The nicotine inside the tobacco loosens the LES, leading to the rise of stomach acid. This results in heartburn more often than not. If you’re a pack-a-day kind of person, you’re presenting yourself with a higher likelihood of feeling symptoms around the clock.
3. Don’t drink carbonated beverages
If you’re worried about reflux, you might be better off avoiding soda, ginger ale, or any carbonated drinks for a while. Fizzy drinks have been linked to gastric distension, a general term for the sort of intestinal movement that leads to acid reflux. Instead of soda, you can drink herbal tea, low-fat milk, or even a smoothie.
4. Eat smaller meals slowly
Give your body more time to digest everything. Stomach acid is at a relatively high concentration after a good-sized meal. You want to be careful to avoid just that scenario as often as possible.
5. Avoid acidic and spicy foods
This one is pretty simple. More acid coming into your system is bound to increase the odds that there is an overflow of the sort of stomach juices you’re trying to keep contained. Spicy food doesn’t seem to directly cause acid reflux, which makes sense because spicy foods are not usually measured as acidic after being consumed. That being said, it does seem like spicy foods can worsen already present symptoms.
Dry eyes often occur when the tear glands fail to produce adequate tears for the lubrication of the eyes naturally. Chronic dry eyes is a condition that can cause a lot of pain and potentially even damage the eye. Dry eyes may be the result of an underlying medical condition (i.e., Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or thyroid disorders), a vitamin deficiency (i.e., vitamin A deficiency), or due to environmental factors (i.e., weather, pet allergies, or dust).
The following natural remedies can help you manage dry eyes
1. Warm eye compresses
The compresses can help when you soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply the warm material compressed over the eye. When you make use of heat and moisture in such conditions, it will help alleviate pain. It also helps in the inflammation of the eye. Additionally, it also helps the state of mild eyes
2. Omega-3 supplements
Studies show that omega-3 supplements are beneficial for relieving dry eyes. The fatty acid supplements have found less dry eye conditions in people who take them. It is because it improves the eye’s oil film. This film is a production of small glands on the edge of the eyelid called meibomian glands
3. Castor oil
The use of castor oil helps in the lubrication of the eyes hence preventing moisture from drying up. Get eye drops that have it compared to making your own. When you use these eye drops approximately four times a day, you will improve
4. Drinking more water
You can also drink water because it is also a very fast remedy for dry eyes. You will prevent the condition and also get healthy. The eyes require moisture to stay wet and avoid dehydration. Moreover, you will be rehydrating your eyes. It will also be eliminating minerals from the eyes. Additionally, hydrated eyes with clean, purified water are good for your health
5. Natural tears eye drops
You can purchase natural tears eye drops at almost any pharmacy. These consist of Dextran 70 Sodium Chloride and Hypromellose (as active ingredients), Potassium Chloride, Boric Acid, Sodium Borate, and purified water. These mimic real natural tears to help lubricate dry eyes and provide comfort and hydration.
Dry eyes can be very painful and uncomfortable, however, the above mentioned home remedies can help. If dry eyes persist, talk to your doctor about dry eye medicine to help minimize pain and eyelid inflammation. When you experience inflammation at the edges of your eyelid, it will cause some issues. One of them is keeping oil glands from secreting into your eyes. It is, therefore, recommendable to talk to your doctor about possible prescription options and to explore possible underlying health conditions that may be causing dry eyes.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, has to be managed to get it back to stable levels as soon as possible as it can put you at risk for suffering a heart attack or stroke. Doctors will often prescribe PAH therapy to lower your blood pressure. However, in addition to treatment for PAH, it is important to change your diet. There are a number of foods that you can eat in order to lower your blood pressure:
1. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are oval seeds that have a slightly sweet flavor. There are several ways that you can enjoy the seeds. You can boil them or roast them. You can also eat them raw. The seeds are a great source of magnesium. This is a mineral that can help keep your blood pressure within a healthy range. They are also a great source of fiber. Fiber is a nutrient that is necessary for healthy digestion. You need to get 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. However, most people do not get enough fiber. You can lower your blood pressure by ensuring that you get an adequate amount of fiber
2. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits include things like lemons, oranges and grapefruits. They are loaded with vitamins and minerals that can help lower your blood pressure. A study was conducted including 101 Japanese women who were asked to drink lemon juice on a daily basis. The results of the study showed that the subjects noticed a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure. Studies have also shown that grapefruit juice and orange juice can lower blood pressure. However, it is important to note that juice can interfere with certain medications. That is why it is a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before you start drinking juice on a regular basis
3. Salmon and fatty fish
Fatty fish is high in omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to improve heart health. Experts believe that healthy fats can decrease oxylipins. Those are compounds that can cause your blood vessels to constrict, which can cause your blood pressure to rise. There was a study done that involved 2,036 healthy people. The results of the study showed that the subjects that had the highest intake of omega 3 fatty acids had significantly lower blood pressure
4. Swiss chard
Swiss chard is a type of leafy green that contains 17 percent of the potassium that you need. It also has 30 percent of the magnesium that you need. Potassium also helps regulate your blood pressure. Studies have shown that increasing your potassium intake by 0.6 gram per day can help lower your blood pressure by 1.0 mm Hg. One cup of this leafy green will provide you with 792 mg of potassium. One cup is equivalent to 145 grams
Excessive sweating is a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis. When the temperature is high, the sweat glands will produce the perspiration that will be carried to the surface of the skin; this normally happens when you are exercising, have a fever, or feel anxious. However, often an underlying medical condition (i.e., hormonal imbalance) may cause abnormally excessive sweating in areas such as the head, hands, and underarms so much so that the patient soaks through clothing and bedclothes.
For the individuals who suffer from excessive sweating, the sweat glands are often triggered regardless of activity levels or temperature. While in some cases, excessive sweating is harmless. In some instances, it may be due to one of the following medical conditions, and needs to be addressed immediately via a medical professional
1. Spinal cord injury
When you sweat, the body is trying to cool down. Nevertheless, for people with a spinal cord injury, you will experience excessive sweating, and the condition can be referred to as autonomic dysreflexia. The condition comes about when your spinal cord has incurred excessive damage. The blood pressure will be high when some of the areas below the injured part are stimulated. Apart from high blood pressure, if you have autonomic dysreflexia, you will experience symptoms such as flushed skin, chest tightness, headaches and feelings of anxiety and pain
2. Anxiety disorder
Anxiety and depression can be linked to excessive sweating. There are different types of anxiety that usually cause hyperhidrosis as well as heart palpitations. If heavy sweating is interfering with your daily activities, you may end up experiencing anxiety. Please speak to a medical professional.
3. Heart disease
Excessive sweating is among the signs of heart disease. In some cases, excessive sweating can signify a heart attack. Sweating closely relates to a condition known as atherosclerosis; this is a condition whereby the arteries become narrow, and the body will have a hard time delivering blood to the vital organs in the body. When you sweat at night and are not suffering from perimenopause, there is a chance that you may be suffering from a heart condition.
4. Hyperthyroidism
When the thyroid gland is making the thyroid hormones in excess, the temperature in your body will rise. As a result, you will end up sweating excessively
5. Parkinson’s disease
If you have Parkinson’s disease, there is a high likelihood that you will have an issue with excessive sweating since the nervous system is compromised. Excessive sweating with Parkinson’s may also occur due to the drugs being used to treat this condition. At times, people with the disease will experience excessive sweating at night
Excessive sweating is normal in some instances. However, if it is chronic and unexplained you may be suffering from an underlying health condition. In this case, you should consult a medical practitioner who will help determine your condition. Patients with medical conditions that cause excessive sweating can use prescription deodorant to help control sweat and odor.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) Is a condition in which the immune system is damaged at the nerve protective coverings. In multiple sclerosis, the damage brought about by the cells results in communication distortion between the body and the brain. MS is an incurable chronic disease that progresses over time.
However, treatment that includes consistent medication multiple sclerosis treatment (Lemtrada) as well as lifestyle changes can help manage the condition
1. Eat well
Maintaining a healthy diet is good for everyone, but for people living with chronic diseases such as MS, a great diet is even more essential. Eat plenty of vegetables, food rich in proteins and fruits. You are also required to eat a variety of carbohydrates such as whole-wheat bread and oats. Your nutritionist will recommend you consume healthy fats like avocados, extra virgin oil, or nuts. Some individuals suffering from MS take biotin and vitamin D and some other options. Do not consume any supplement without consulting your doctor
2. Daily exercise
Although one common symptom of MS is fatigue, good exercise is important. Keeping fit enhances your balance, endurance, flexibility, and strength. You may also find mobility to be simpler, being active reduces the risk of a secondary diagnosis like a heart attack. Remember that exercise doesn’t have to be heavy or intense cardio for it to be of benefit to you. The activities can be gentler such as household chores or gardening. The goal is for you to move and be active. You can also enroll in a multiple sclerosis exercise program
3. Manage stress
You may experience as if your mind is trapped in a vicious cycle. Stress will worsen MS symptoms. Learn stress management methods such as managing your time well, seeking help with certain duties, prioritizing some important activities, relaxation and deep breathing should be included in your to-do list.
4. Physiotherapy
Many people having MS tend to suffer from depression. Good medication and therapy for MS anxiety and depression can help in stress management. Be open with your doctor in case you experience any emotional challenge
5. Get adequate sleep
Most of the individuals suffering from MS. tends to experience difficulty during sleep, it is important to consult your doctor on how to get adequate sleep. Get plenty of sleep; ensure you check on your sleeping habits. Adequate sleep is recommendable for people suffering from MS
6. Massage
For people suffering from this condition, it is essential to visit your massage parlor more often. Or you can opt to get it from the comfort of your house
Easy changes to your daily routines, habits, diet, and home may have a great impact when it comes to the management of MS. Put steps in place to change your environment to make it safer and more convenient.
Cholesterol is a type of fatty substance that moves throughout your body in the blood. The liver is where cholesterol is formed and it is found as a waxy presence in your cells. Cholesterol is classified into two basic categories Good and Bad. HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) is the good cholesterol. LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) is the bad cholesterol. Cholesterol is essential in the body for hormone and vitamin D production.
Cholesterol intake is increased by the foods we eat. The following is a sample of superfoods that can be consumed to help maintain good HDL cholesterol levels and lower bad LDL cholesterol levels. High levels of cholesterol is a prelude to varying health conditions, but the symptoms are minimal. Superfoods that help lower cholesterol include
1. Fatty fish
Fatty Fish such as salmon, sardines and tuna are great seafood sources that contain Omega-3 fatty acids. Research doesn’t link fish with directly lowering cholesterol because fish does contain cholesterol. However, research indicates that eating fish will help the body to lower triglyceride levels. This will help to increase your HDL levels, you know the good stuff, in the body
2. Nuts
Nuts also contain Omega-3 fatty acids. Research has found walnuts, almonds, pecans, pistachios and hazelnuts are great contributors to lowering cholesterol. The basic functions of their Omega-3 benefits are in preventing blood clot formation within the body and with the reduction of plaque build up in the arteries
3. Avocados
Avocados are fruits that contain fiber and heart healthy monounsaturated fats. They help to leverage the good and bad cholesterol in your body. The inclusion of this fruit in your diet is a great way to help reduce cholesterol levels within your body. This is evident due to it’s abundant heart healthy nutrient content
4. Oats
Oats contain soluble fiber. This is a great reason to eat oatmeal because soluble fiber is credited for reducing the intake and retention of cholesterol into your body. More specifically it helps to reduce LDL cholesterol, a.k.a the bad cholesterol
5. Beans and legumes
Beans and Legumes contain both soluble and insoluble fibers. This is important to the body because this combination of fibers helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol accumulation in the digestive tract. Legumes are large plant seeds. Beans are classified as a type of legume. The nutritional composition of legumes resemble that of meat because they have a high plant protein content, which makes them a great replacement food. Examples of legumes include Pinto, Kidney, Lima, Navy and Black Beans. Cranberries, lentils and peas are also in the legume family. They work within the body by allowing for slow absorption of carbohydrates to help reduce the feeling of hunger. This process assists in providing the body with energy
6. Pectin rich fruits
Pectin Rich Fruits include apples, oranges, plums, guavas, grapes and grapefruits. Clinical studies have found that pectin aides in the reduction of the bad (LDL) cholesterol due to its fiber content. Pectin is unique in that it has no effect on triglycerides or the HDL cholesterol
Repatha is a medication given subcutaneously to treat high cholesterol. The ability of the liver to refuse cholesterol receptors is how Repatha lowers bad cholesterol LDL in the blood. Repatha cost with insurance is significantly reduced according to your coverage plan.
Osteoporosis is a condition that affects bone mass, making bones brittle and weak. In most cases, osteoporosis wears gradually on bones until fractures occur in the spine, wrist or the hip. Notably, a bone is a living tissue, and if healthy bones are broken, they are usually replenished by new bone. Osteoporosis occurs when the body cannot create new bone.
The symptoms of osteoporosis include bone and back pain, stooped posture and weak bones. The following foods can help ward off osteoporosis development:
1. Sardines with the bones
Sardines are rich in vitamin D and they are a good source of calcium. Sardines are bone boosting minerals since they contain zinc, phosphorous and omega-3 fatty acids which are important in dampening down joint inflammation. Notably, vitamin D found in sardines is essential for bone health given that it helps the body to absorb calcium. You should take at least 10 micrograms of sardines daily to boost the decreasing levels of calcium in the body.
2. Calcium-fortified cottage cheese
Calcium-fortified cottage cheese is rich in relatively low in fat, protein and high in calcium alongside Vitamin A and Vitamin B. The implication in this case is that this is an excellent source of calcium which is vital in bone health hence prevents osteoporosis. This is also important in weight loss.
3. Broccoli and kale
Broccoli and kale are natural common sources of calcium. They are rich in highly absorbable calcium and other essential nutrients for strong bones. Ensure that you introduce broccoli and kale in your diet and eat few servings daily to provide your body with the necessary nutrients it requires to keep your bones strong and healthy.
4. Dried figs
When you are looking for bone-strengthening fruits, ensure that you start with dried figs. Dried figs contain high levels of calcium alongside essential nutrients like magnesium and potassium. Eating dried figs will help your body to keep the bones strong.
Moreover, magnesium helps the body to absorb calcium. Most people lack sufficient amounts of magnesium in the body implying that they have weak bones. Eating dried figs provides the body with magnesium that boosts the absorption of calcium leading to strong and healthy bones.
5. Canned salmon
Canned salmon is rich in vitamin D which is a crucial nutrient that helps the body to absorb and process calcium. Additionally, research shows that 3-ounce of canned salmon contains 20 grams 25 percent and protein in your daily calcium needs.
6. Yogurt and milk
Intake of yoghurt and milk increases the amount of calcium in the body. This is essential in the development of bones. Add plain yoghurt and milk to your diet, they are rich in calcium which makes your bones healthy and strong. Yoghurt also contains lactose which is vital for strong bones.
Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver that can ultimately cause massive liver damage. The Hepatitis C virus (or HCV) causes the infection. The HCV virus has a few symptoms that distinguish it from other infections. There are different variations of the HCV, but the most common is the type 1 HCV, which will determine the course of treatment. HCV infection is contracted mainly via contaminated blood.
Individuals are exposed to the hep C virus in these cases:
Telltale symptoms of hep C infection include:
1. Jaundice
Patients infected with HCV may experience jaundice, in which the whites of the eyes and skin turn yellow in color. The urine may also present in a dark yellow or rusty color.
2. Clay-colored stool
Bowel movements may be affected by hep C, as a result of insufficient bile from the liver or a blockage in the bile duct of the liver. The stool may appear pale-white, putty or clay-like in color.
3. Stomach pains
The patient may experience a myriad of digestive issues and flu-like symptoms, such as nausea, fever, and fatigue stemming from the loss of appetite. Stomach pain with hep C can range from mild in the early stages, but usually worsens gradually over time.
4. Joint and muscle pains
Surprisingly, hep C may cause physical discomfort, achiness, and swelling in the joints, which can last in flare ups of 2 weeks to 3 months. The infection is responsible for this pain, as the body’s immune system is compromised in order to fight the virus.
5. Diagnosing hep C
Doctors will determine a formal hepatitis C diagnosis, first by identifying the above symptoms, followed by a blood test, which checks for the presence of HCV antibodies in the blood. The results take up to a week, and a positive test means that the patient is infected with HCV. Additional liver testing may be conducted to ascertain the extent of the virus, and the following treatment involves a prescribed dosage of the medication for a period of 8 to 12 weeks. Such drugs are Grazoprevir, Elbasvir, Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir or Pibrentasvir. The dosage and combination are as prescribed by the doctor.
6. Stages of hepatitis C
It should clearly be stated that the virus has various ways of affecting the patient with several stages involved, such as
