What exactly is a superfood? So many so called “super” foods have been featured in the news. From almonds to coconut oil, the superfood label is slapped on foods that are proven so rich in nutrients that they are not only beneficial for health and well-being, but also aid the prevention of certain conditions and diseases.
The following list features only the best when it comes to superfoods that fight disease fighting and safeguard overall health:
1. Sweet potatoes
If you’ve ever had a grilled or baked sweet potato, you know they’re far superior to their starchy white counterparts. These slightly sweet and delicious orange tadders have been linked to preventing several types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and digestive diseases thanks to the assortment of goodness within. With just one sweet tuber you get plenty of iron, copper, calcium, beta-carotene; vitamins E and C and E, folate, copper, potassium, and fiber. That’s reason to substitute sweet for white potatoes whenever you can.
2. Dark leafy greens
What’s growing in your garden? If you like to grow lettuce, arugula, spinach, kale, swiss chard, bok choy, or another leafy green, you’re in luck. Harvard research indicates that dark leafy green veggies contain the antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, iron, folate, iron, magnesium, and phytochemicals needed to ward off type 2 diabetes. And don’t worry, if you don’t grow your own, visit a farmer’s market for assorted leafy green goodness. In addition, the soluble fiber delivered in leafy vegetables has been linked to preventing constipation for IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) sufferers. Try and get roughly 12 grams of soluble fiber per day from fruits and vegetables.
3. Beans
Beans, beans are good for your heart…the more you eat, the lower your cholesterol and the more stable your blood sugar! Beans and their sisters, legumes (i.e., red, green, yellow and brown lentils, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, runner beans, fava beans, kidney beans, lima beans cannellini beans, pinto beans, etc.) are not only appetite satisfying and low in fat (for healthy weight), they are filled with fiber, iron, plant based protein, magnesium, calcium, and folic acid. Beans are most linked to keeping cholesterol in check by lowering triglyceride levels, which protect heart health. Better yet, beans are among a group of foods known as pulses, reputed for their ability to keep uric acid levels low, and prevent gout flare ups.
4. Coconuts and coconut oil
Coconut oil is perhaps the most popular “superfood” on the planet. And this fleshy fruit has definitely earned it’s rep thanks to being rich in heart-healthy saturated fats, which benefit triglyceride levels and keep HDL (good) cholesterol in check to lower risk of heart disease. However, coconut and coconut oil also fuels the body and brain with much-needed energy to reduce the risk of epilepsy, dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases, and aid liver function by transforming into ketone energy. In addition, although it’s not a magic cure, coconut oil has been shown effectively reduce eczema symptoms (i.e., dryness, irritation, and lowering risk of infection).
5. Eggs
Eggs really are a wonder food. There is so much goodness contained in a single egg that research credits the egg for maintaining good blood cholesterol, warding off macular degeneration (eye health), and preventing cardiovascular disease (i.e., heart attack).
Get cracking to get a daily dose of protein, lutein, choline (if you’re pregnant), xeanthin, and healthy fats.
6. Dark berries
Strawberries, blueberries, cherries, raspberries, and cranberries, oh my! There’s a lot of research to convince you to incorporate berries into your diet stat! And you can do so by using them as a salad, cereal, and yogurt topper, or in baked goods or smoothies. Studies published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture find that berries are rich in antioxidants, which protect our cells from free radical damage that can lead to heart disease, urinary tract infections, and several types of cancer.
7. Nuts
Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and Brazil nuts have much in common. Not only are these nutty snacks jam packed with fiber, vitamins E and A, protein, and selenium, a mere handful will boost your energy levels and satiate a hungry tummy. But perhaps the most convincing reason to go nuts for nuts is they promote heart health because of the healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats within, which work to keep cholesterol at a healthy level. Not only that, but studies suggest nuts rich in vitamin E and selenium may help ease psoriasis symptoms.
8. Oats
Mom was right, a bowl of oatmeal a day keeps the doctor away. In fact, oats contain a plethora of whole grain goodness thanks to folic acid, vitamin Bs, selenium, and soluble fiber, which works to keep appetite and blood sugars balanced while reducing high cholesterol. To get your fill of beneficial whole grain goodness, nosh on 21-38 grams daily of brown or wild rice, quinoa, oats, barley, millet, or rye as recommended by the American Dietetic Association. This is particularly good news for patients with fibromyalgia, as certain foods, especially oats, can boost energy, slow down absorption, and keep you energized throughout the day.
9. Tomatoes
The juicy red fruit that thinks it’s a veggie is a “hot house” of nutrients. Namely, tomatoes are rich in the antioxidant lycopene, as well as potassium, and vitamins C and A, which together help ward off the risk of several types of cancer. Plus, tomatoes are versatile and can be eaten raw in salads, sliced on sandwiches, diced in sauces, and chopped in fresh dips and salsas.
10. Fatty fish
When it comes to the good vs. bad fat debate, you can almost always guarantee that fish tops the healthy list (when it’s not deep fried). So get some omega-3 fatty acid goodness on your hook (aka: plate) with some mackerel, salmon, sardines, and tuna. Research from the American Heart Association indicates that just 2 servings of fatty fish per week, significantly lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke, as well as inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, the abundance of vitamin D in fatty fish (i.e., salmon) is linked to reducing the frequency of asthma attacks in young children.
Cancer is the spread of abnormal cells in the human body that does not cease to reproduce. There are different categories of cancer, each deriving its name from the part where it originates. The treatment for the same will also depend on what part of the body is affected.
Lung cancer may occur when a cancerous tumor starts growing near the lungs and affects its functioning. This cancer is further divided into two kinds of cancer: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. The latter spreads gradually and slowly than the former and it is more common in people. There are three kinds of non-small cell lung cancer, namely adenocarcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and large-cell carcinoma.
Some of the early symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer are as follows.
While coughing at sometimes is all right, intense coughing that is persistent and does not seem to go away is one of the early signs of non-small cell lung cancer. If you have had a persistent cough that seems to only get worse or doesn’t improve with medicine, it is recommended to see a doctor to rule out the chances of it being something else.
This symptom is not limited to lung cancer but also applies to other categories of cancer as well. If you notice a substantial drop in your weight despite eating the same amount of food, you may want to see a doctor to rule out the possibility of cancer. Sometimes patients may also lose appetite in this phase.
Chest pain is another common symptom of non-small cell lung cancer. These bouts of pain may feel worse with coughing, deep breathing, and sometimes even laughing.
Non-small cell lung cancer can spread to other parts of the body during the advanced stage. Neurological symptoms start showing when cancer spreads to the brain and spinal cords.
Chronic fatigue is another symptom that should not be overlooked. This is another telltale symptom that may be common in other forms of cancers as well.
Patients with non-small cell lung cancer may develop hoarseness in their voice. There may also be an onset of infections like bronchitis and pneumonia that persist for a long time.
In most advanced cases, lung cancer may spread to the bones and may pose symptoms like aching bones. However, aching bones can also be a symptom of other health issues.
Lung cancer may lower vascular resistance, which causes an increase in blood flow in the small arteries of the toes and fingers, which causes the clubbing of the toes and fingers. However, this symptom is not exclusive to lung cancer. It can also be a sign of other health problems as well.
It is important to understand that the occurrence of these symptoms does not always have to be an indication of cancer and may be attributed to other benign health conditions. That’s why it is always better to get yourself checked by a qualified healthcare provider to be 100 percent sure.
Myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, are a group of disorders caused by poorly formed blood cells or ones that don’t work properly. The MDS life expectancy varies greatly from patient to patient, depending on several factors, including age, overall health, and how well the disease responds to treatment. One of the major complications of MDS is that it can cause anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS to seek early treatment. Here are ten signs that may indicate the presence of this disease.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms of MDS is fatigue. This is primarily due to anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak. If you’re feeling unusually fatigued, it might be worth discussing with your doctor.
2. Shortness of breath
Another sign of MDS can be shortness of breath, especially during physical activities. This symptom is also related to anemia, as your body isn’t getting enough oxygen due to a lack of red blood cells.
3. Frequent infections
MDS can cause your white blood cell count to drop, making you more susceptible to infections. If you find that you’re getting sick more often than usual, it could be a sign of MDS.
4. Easy bruising or bleeding
If you notice that you’re bruising easily or bleeding more than usual, it could be a sign of MDS. This is because MDS can affect your platelet count, which is responsible for blood clotting.
5. Skin paleness
Anemia, a common complication of MDS, can cause your skin to look paler than usual. This is due to the lack of red blood cells, which give your skin its color.
Now that we’ve covered the warning signs, let’s look at some FDA-approved treatments for MDS.
6. Blood transfusions
Blood transfusions are often used to treat anemia in people with MDS. This involves receiving healthy blood from a donor to increase your red blood cell count.
7. Medications
Several medications can be used to treat MDS, including growth factors to stimulate your body to make more blood cells, and immunosuppressive drugs to help your body accept these new cells.
8. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often used to kill off abnormal cells in your bone marrow. This can help to slow the progression of MDS and alleviate some symptoms.
9. Stem cell transplant
A stem cell transplant involves replacing your diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow from a donor. This can potentially cure MDS, but it’s a complex procedure with significant risks.
10. Supportive care
Supportive care involves managing the symptoms of MDS, such as fatigue and shortness of breath. This can include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of MDS and seek treatment early. With the right care, it’s possible to manage this disease and maintain a good quality of life.
Life insurance is a critical safety net for many individuals, especially those over 50 or seniors who want to ensure their loved ones are financially secure after they’re gone. But it’s essential to understand that not all situations are covered by life insurance policies. Here are seven things that life insurance does not typically cover.
1. Fraudulent information
One of the key aspects insurance companies look at when underwriting a policy is the honesty of the information provided. If you have lied or omitted important information on your application, your insurer can deny your beneficiaries’ claim. Always be honest and thorough when applying for life insurance.
2. Suicide within the exclusion period
Most life insurance policies include a clause that excludes coverage for suicide within the first two years of the policy. This period may vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy, but it’s a standard exclusion across the industry.
3. Death from risky activities
If you regularly engage in high-risk activities such as skydiving, mountain climbing, or extreme sports, your life insurance policy may not cover death resulting from these activities. It’s crucial to disclose these hobbies when applying for insurance, as failing to do so could result in a denied claim.
4. Death in a war zone
Many life insurance policies exclude coverage for death occurring in a war zone. If you are a military personnel or a civilian working in a conflict area, you may need to seek a special policy or rider to cover this risk.
5. Illegal activities
If the policyholder dies while committing an illegal activity, the life insurance claim will likely be denied. This can include anything from driving under the influence to participating in criminal activities.
6. Certain health conditions
While life insurance for over 50 and life insurance for seniors are generally available, certain health conditions may not be covered. This is especially true for policies with a graded death benefit, which only pays out the full benefit if the policyholder lives a certain number of years after purchasing the policy.
7. Acts of God
Some life insurance policies may not cover deaths caused by acts of God, such as natural disasters. However, this exclusion is less common than others and can vary significantly between insurance companies and policies.
Now that you know what life insurance typically does not cover, it’s important to find a reliable provider. Some of the top companies that provide life insurance include New York Life, MetLife, Prudential Financial, and State Farm. These companies offer a variety of policies, including term life, whole life, and universal life insurance.
Remember, life insurance is a crucial part of financial planning, especially for those over 50 or seniors. Make sure to thoroughly read and understand your policy, and don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent or company any questions you may have. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your loved ones’ financial future.
Embarking on home improvement projects is a rewarding journey that can elevate your living space and enhance its functionality. From addressing water damage with companies that clean up water in the basement to upgrading roofing and gutters, and even considering Anderson window replacement, these hacks are designed to transform your home seamlessly. In this article, we explore seven ingenious home improvement hacks that will breathe new life into your living space.
1. Water damage prevention and cleanup
Companies that specialize in cleaning up water in the basement play a crucial role in preventing and addressing water damage. Protect your home from potential disasters by addressing leaks, floods, or excess moisture promptly. Investing in professional services ensures a thorough cleanup and mitigation of water-related issues, preserving the structural integrity of your home.
2. Roofing and gutters upgrade
Upgrading your roofing and gutters is a fundamental home improvement hack that protects your property from the elements. Consider durable roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal, or architectural tiles. Additionally, ensure your gutters are clean and well-maintained to prevent water damage and potential leaks. Regular inspections and prompt repairs contribute to the longevity of your roof and the overall health of your home.
3. Anderson window replacement
Enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency with Anderson window replacement. Anderson windows are renowned for their quality and durability. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows not only improves insulation but also adds a timeless and elegant touch to your interior and exterior spaces. The investment in high-quality windows pays off in energy savings and increased home value.
4. Creative storage solutions
Maximize your living space by incorporating creative storage solutions. Utilize under-the-stair storage, built-in shelving, or multifunctional furniture to optimize every square foot. These solutions not only declutter your home but also add a touch of innovation to your decor, making your living space both functional and stylish.
5. Smart home technology integration
Embrace the future of home living by integrating smart home technology. From smart thermostats and lighting to security systems, these technologies enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Smart home devices can be easily controlled through mobile apps, providing remote access and customization options to suit your lifestyle.
6. DIY painting projects
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most transformative and cost-effective home improvement hacks. Whether it’s an accent wall, a room makeover, or refreshing exterior surfaces, painting projects can instantly breathe new life into your home. Experiment with different colors and finishes to create a personalized and updated look.
7. Energy-efficient lighting upgrades
Switching to energy-efficient lighting options is not only environmentally conscious but also financially savvy. Replace outdated incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL alternatives to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Additionally, consider installing motion sensor lights in outdoor areas for enhanced security and energy efficiency.
Embarking on home improvement projects is an exciting endeavor that allows you to tailor your living space to your preferences and needs. From addressing water damage with professional cleanup services to upgrading roofing and gutters, considering Anderson window replacement, and embracing creative storage solutions, these home improvement hacks offer practical and innovative ways to transform your home. Whether you’re looking to enhance aesthetics, increase energy efficiency, or optimize functionality, these hacks provide a roadmap for a more comfortable and stylish living environment.
