6 foods that help clear congestion and boost lung health

6 foods that help clear congestion and boost lung health
Nutrition makes up for a considerable portion of a healthy lifestyle, where what kind of food one eats is paramount. Every disease, regardless of what it is, requires the patient to be wary of what they eat, and there are always foods that are either acceptable or avoidable. The same goes for lung health. Therefore, given below are some common foods that help reduce congestion, boost lung health, and should be included in daily meals. Peppers Peppers are rich in vitamin C and are known for their antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that eating a medium-sized sweet red pepper can give the body 169% of the recommended intake of vitamin C. This food is also known for decreasing inflammation in the body. Turmeric Turmeric is a well-known remedial herb used for traditional healing in Asian culture. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which help heal the body and other health conditions. The main active turmeric compound, curcumin, is primarily known for its beneficial role in lung health. A study with 2,478 participants included consuming turmeric for research purposes, and the conclusive result stated that curcumin intake improves lung function in individuals. Green tea This particular beverage is known for its healing properties due to its high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

5 high-risk public places for respiratory viruses

5 high-risk public places for respiratory viruses
Respiratory illnesses are generally contracted through air. Social distancing is the best way to prevent the transmission of such illnesses, as the viruses that cause them tend to travel via airborne channels. In certain public zones, social distancing is harder than in other areas. In such zones, even if a single person is carrying a virus that causes respiratory illnesses, it can make many people sick. Some such high-risk public places are listed here: Public pools For many people, summer vacations simply translate into an endless array of pool parties and swimming lessons. This is why, public pools are generally full of kids and adults just having a refreshing and good time as they unwind during the summer. Unfortunately, such zones are also home to many types of bacteria and viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that the average swimmer contributes to about 0.14 grams of fecal matter in pools when they enter the water. Unsurprisingly, public pools also have people in close proximity and several commonly touched surfaces like pool steps, the water, door handles, and similar others. Therefore, public pools often become hotspots for respiratory viruses and disease outbreaks now and then. Beaches Like pools, beaches are also hot property during vacations for a legion of summer lovers.

6 early signs of weak bones

6 early signs of weak bones
Weak bones, which can indicate conditions such as osteoporosis, can be a concerning issue. If a person’s bones weaken, they become more prone to fractures, significantly disrupting their life and daily activities. Hence, it is essential to recognize the early signs of the weakening of bones so one can take the necessary steps to prevent more serious consequences. Here are 6 early signs of weak bones that one must look out for. Brittle fingernails If a person notices that their nails have become fragile and are breaking easily, it could be an indication that their bones are becoming weak. Besides weakening, if a person notices vertical ridges on their fingernails, it could also be a sign of calcium deficiency, which can further affect their bone health. However, it is important to take note of the fact that brittleness in fingernails can also be caused by various other factors. It is better to consult a healthcare provider about their concerns if one is in doubt. Reduced grip strength Weakening of bones can also affect a person’s grip strength. They may notice that tasks like twisting door knobs, holding onto objects, opening jars, etc., are becoming tougher. This could be a sign of decreasing bone density.

6 mistakes to avoid while wearing contact lenses

6 mistakes to avoid while wearing contact lenses
Environmental pollutants, genetics, injuries, age, and other factors can affect one’s eyesight. Luckily, several visual aids are available in the market to help people see better, contact lenses being a popular choice. These lenses are placed over the eye’s cornea to correct refractive errors. Some people also wear them for cosmetic purposes. In either case, one should avoid the following mistakes while wearing contact lenses to ensure they work well and don’t cause complications. Sleeping with contact lenses When one sleeps, the body works to recover and rejuvenate organs, including the eyes, from the stressful situations that may have occurred during the day. Sleeping with contact lenses can interfere with this function. Moreover, when closed, the eyes don’t receive sufficient oxygen to fight germs, and wearing contact lenses may block the oxygen supply further. Not cleaning the lenses Some people don’t clean their contacts for days. This is a terrible mistake that can lead to bacteria settling on them. When such lenses are worn, they can increase the risk of infection and inflammation. They can also lead to keratitis, a painful eye infection of the cornea. One must clean their contact lenses regularly and ensure they are hygienic when placed on each eye.

5 mistakes to avoid with flexible spending accounts

5 mistakes to avoid with flexible spending accounts
A flexible spending account (FSA) can be categorized as a savings account. It helps the owner get certain tax benefits. Sometimes also referred to as flexible spending arrangements, FSAs are helpful for health and dental care reimbursements, childcare, or care expenses for a dependent adult. But to get the best out of these, it is essential to learn about potential pitfalls. Here are some of the common mistakes to avoid with FSA. Assuming one can take the FSA with them after quitting a job FSAs work this way: An employee contributes a part of their salary to the fund, and the employer contributes the rest. Therefore, the FSA money stays with the employer once an employee quits a job. Hence, it is usually recommended to use up any pending healthcare expenses when one is planning to leave an employer. For instance, one can fill a prescription or buy eligible OTC products that they may need in the future by using the remaining FSA funds before they quit the job. Not getting to know what the FSA will pay or not pay for Most people are not aware which services and products come under eligible expenses for an FSA. For example, some may assume that gym memberships or insurance premiums can be paid for with a flexible spending account.

Common early warning signs of lymphoma

Common early warning signs of lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer affecting the body’s lymph system. This system comprises organs and tissues that help maintain good health and fight infections. Lymph nodes are essential organs of the lymph system affected by the condition. These nodes hold special white blood cells, which keep immunity strong. There are two types of lymphoma, and the symptoms vary according to the type. Here are some early signs and symptoms to never ignore. Swollen or enlarged lymph nodes Both types of lymphoma, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin, trigger a common symptom: swollen or enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes circulate lymph fluid to the entire body. This fluid contains immune cells crucial in keeping one healthy and performing other vital functions. There are around 600 lymph nodes in the body, which can get swollen or enlarged with lymphoma. However, the lymph nodes in the underarm area, above the collarbone, in the groin region, and at the side of the neck are often affected when someone develops the condition. Although lymph node swelling is an essential sign of lymphoma, it may sometimes be associated with another non-cancerous infection. Hence, individuals must consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis before jumping to conclusions. The other symptoms of lymphoma can vary depending on the type and location of the cancer.

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4 common myths about diabetes debunked

4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.
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The risk factors associated with dehydration

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.
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