Arthritis affects 350 million people around the world. The condition causes joint pain and inflammation. In addition to seeking appropriate treatment, making healthy nutritional changes can also help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. An easy way to get more anti-inflammatory foods and essential nutrients into the meal plan is to have smoothies. So, here are delicious and nutrient-packed smoothies that can help one deal with arthritis and relieve its symptoms. What is arthritis? Arthritis is a comprehensive term used to describe over 100 different types of joint conditions. It affects people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. The most common type of this condition is osteoarthritis, which develops when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. Other common types are rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis. Some factors may contribute to the development of arthritis, such as genetics, injury, infection, and hormonal changes. The condition can cause pain, stiffness, swelling in joints or surrounding tissues, decreased range of motion in affected areas, and fatigue. Symptoms vary based on the type but generally worsen with age or after extended periods without movement, such as sitting for long periods at work or sleeping for too long without stretching.

Parkinson’s disease is a movement-related disorder caused by degeneration of the brain cells that control the body’s movements. The nerve cells stop producing dopamine – a neurotransmitter that works with other chemicals to communicate between nerve cells and muscles that control movement. This condition can be managed with timely diagnosis and various treatment methods, including oral prescriptions, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) procedures, lifestyle changes, and exercise. Role of foods in managing Parkinson’s disease There is no official recommendation or solid evidence yet to show that a specific food or a combination can help in managing the advancement of Parkinson’s Disease. It is a degenerative condition resulting in tremors, slow movement, imbalance, rigidity, sleep disorders, pain, mental health disorders, and sensory disturbances. Oral treatments for Parkinson’s Disease are known to cause multiple side effects: Nausea Vomiting Loss of appetite Constipation Dyskinesia – uncontrollable movements of arms, legs, torso, and face Confusion Daytime sleep Constipation Low blood pressure Since Parkinson’s Disease mostly affects seniors, their food intake has to consider the physical and mental changes they go through, any comorbidities they may have, and also manage the side effects of the oral prescriptions. It is recommended to consult a nutritionist to devise the right menu plan that provides the required nutrition, helps manage side effects, and prevents worsening symptoms.

Thyroid cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the thyroid gland, which produces hormones that regulate body temperature, heart rate, and metabolism. It is the fifth most common cancer found in women in the country. This condition may not cause symptoms in the early stages and is often discovered during a routine neck examination or imaging scan. Knowing the risks, warning signs, and symptoms may help diagnose and treat the condition successfully. What is the thyroid gland? The small butterfly-shaped thyroid gland is situated around the trachea, at the base of the neck. It is one of the most vital hormone glands, affecting most bodily functions. The thyroid regulates the metabolism, growth, and development of the human body. The two main hormones secreted by the thyroid gland are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). What are the warning signs of thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer is classified by the type of cancer cell. Some of these include papillary cancer, follicular thyroid cancer, Hurthle cell cancer, sporadic medullary thyroid cancer, familial medullary thyroid cancer, anaplastic thyroid cancer, and thyroid lymphoma. Although it is tough to identify thyroid cancer until its advanced stages, here are some early warning signs to be wary of: Swollen lump on the neck An unusual lump, swelling, or nodule in the neck is generally one of the most common signs of thyroid cancer.

Inflammation, infection, cell and tissue damage, and aging are some of the common factors that can contribute to issues that interfere with the normal functioning of the lungs. Respiratory issues are usually triggered by viral or bacterial infection, exposure to irritants and environmental pollution, lack of nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and a family history of a lung-related condition. Here, good eating habits can help in maintaining lung health and preventing respiratory issues. Managing lung health Limiting exposure to pollution is a key measure to protect the lungs. So, one should wear masks outdoors to avoid dirt, dust, smoke, and hazardous fumes from entering the body. Maintaining the highest hygiene standards at home and outside can help one prevent contracting any infection through airborne pathogens. While a healthy meal plan and regular exercise can strengthen the lungs, frequent medical checkups can help identify any risk of lung disease so that one can take necessary preventive measures. Best foods for lungs A nutritious, balanced, and lung-friendly meal plan can help the immune system keep infections at bay. So, one should add the following nourishing foods to their daily meals: Sources of vitamin A The lungs are among the last organs to develop in a fetus, so the right nutrients during pregnancy help in healthy lung development.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition wherein one’s immune system attacks the central nervous system. It is an inflammatory and autoimmune condition affecting speech, vision, and mobility. Persistent fatigue, tremors, vision issues, osteoporosis, and bladder problems are common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The food one consumes plays a significant role in managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Certain foods help improve symptoms and protect patients from frequent infections. This article discusses foods to avoid for multiple sclerosis. Impact of multiple sclerosis on the body MS occurs when the immune system harms the myelin, which is the protective coating of neurons in the brain and central nervous system. MS can result from demyelination, inflammation, loss of neurons, or gliosis. Lesions form in various regions of the central nervous system, causing symptoms to manifest based on the affected nerves. Environmental factors, infections, genetic factors, and a defective immune system can cause MS. The typical symptoms of MS include: Progressing weakness in one or several limbs Stiffness Weakness Imbalance Double vision Atrophy in the optic nerve Fatigue Chronic headache Short-term memory loss Lack of concentration Problems in chewing and swallowing Constipation Diarrhea Bladder problems Impotence Lack of interest in sexual activity The intensity of symptoms differs from one person to another.

We all know how important it is to drink water daily to maintain our overall health and well-being. You can drink it hot, ice cold, or in other ways to satiate your thirst. Some also enjoy it infused with fruit. But did you know that drinking water can significantly impact your body? So join us as we break down the top ten best times to drink water during the day to meet your hydration goals. When you feel hungry You may think you are hungry, but you might be thirsty. Often, people do not realize that they are thirsty when they feel hungry. The brain tends to recognize both of these triggers as similar. So, before you scour through your pantry, drink some water. Wait a few minutes, and you will see how it satiates your urge to eat. When you wake up Instead of reaching out for your morning coffee, drink a glass or two of water first. Naturally, you did not drink any water in your sleep. So when you wake up, you are already dehydrated. Hence, having water when you wake up can help. You can also have coffee after hydrating yourself. The good news is that coffee also counts as fluid, and while a caffeinated beverage is usually dehydrating, moderate quantities of it do not leave you dehydrated.

Shortness of breath is one of lung cancer’s first symptoms and complications. It also leads to fluid accumulation in the lungs, preventing them from expanding when inhaling. Chest pain, bloody cough, and the chances of cancer spreading from the lungs to other parts of the body are some of the potential complications. Treatments aim to reduce symptoms’ intensity and improve the quality of life and life expectancy for those affected by lung cancer. Role of food in managing lung cancer Good nutrition should be the fundamental and underlying factor while preparing meals for a patient who has either been diagnosed with lung cancer or is undergoing treatment. What you eat can directly impact how your body fights cancer and responds to treatment. Oral and intravenous prescription treatments, chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy are normal treatments for any cancer, including lung cancer. Food can influence the speed with which the cancer cells spread, the efficacy of treatments, and prevent the chances of recurrence. For example, a sugar-rich meal can influence cancer cell growth. An ideal cancer meal should contain the following: Essential vitamins Folate Selenium Phytonutrients Antioxidants Dietary fiber Similarly, many foods are detrimental to people with lung cancer. These foods can worsen lung cancer symptoms, wheezing, chest pain, exhaustion, sudden weight loss, and bloody cough.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological condition affecting around one million individuals nationwide. Studies suggest a hybrid of environmental and genetic factors is responsible for the condition. Though there is no cure, a combination of therapies can help improve the quality of life for patients with the condition. Understanding the early warning signs and symptoms of the disease can be helpful for an early diagnosis and better management of the condition. Tremor Rhythmic shaking or tremor typically starts in the limb, usually your fingers or hands. You may rub your forefinger and thumb back and forth. It is called the pill-rolling tremor. In people with Parkinson’s disease, the hands tremble while at rest. The shaking usually reduces while performing tasks. However, not everyone experiencing shaking may have Parkinson’s. In some cases, shaking might be routine, especially during stress, after workouts, or after injury. At times, shaking may also be an outcome of ongoing prescription treatments. Small handwriting A sudden change in your handwriting size might also be an early warning sign of Parkison’s disease symptoms. People with Parkinson’s cannot monitor their movements because of neurological changes. It can make motor skills, such as writing, more challenging. The condition is known as Micrographia.