7 simple exercises to do at home

7 simple exercises to do at home

Exercising is an essential part of staying healthy. Regular movement allows us to strengthen the muscles, improve balance, regulate sleep cycles, and maintain the overall health of the mind and body. But, making time to go to the gym or taking a workout class is not always a feasible option for everyone. But, no need to fret. Here are seven easy-to-do exercises that will keep you fit and can be done every day at your convenient time. Squats Squats are one of the simplest and most productive exercises you can do anywhere. All you need to do is stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. You then engage your core and bend the knees while drawing your hips back. Keep going until your thighs are parallel to the floor, and return to the starting position. You can repeat this exercise or hold it for a period of time. Planks Planks help to strengthen the core and stabilize the abdominal muscles. It is super easy to do. Start by planting your hands and toes on the floor. Keep your back straight and your abdominal muscles tight. Hold this position and ensure that your gaze lies in front of your hands. Keep your chin tucked, and do not look at your feet.
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8 foods that can manage menopause and its symptoms

8 foods that can manage menopause and its symptoms

Aging brings its own set of health concerns. For women, menopause is one of them and cannot be avoided. A natural process of the body, menopause commonly occurs in women aged 40 years or older. It also brings along a slew of symptoms like night sweats, hot flashes, headaches, cognitive decline, and depression. Therefore, it is important to be armed with knowledge, resources, and tools for the proper management of this condition. Broccoli Cruciferous vegetables are considered beneficial for women approaching the age of menopause. Broccoli is often top of that list. It has been linked to decreased risk of breast cancer which is a trigger for menopause. Its high antioxidant content protects the body against oxidative damage and a possible cancer scare. Broccoli also reduces the amount of inflammation in the body. Edamame Satiating, healthy, and nutritious, edamame is a great choice for any meal. It is also regarded as a healthier alternative to soy. It packs a lot of phytoestrogens that help the body cope with its depleting levels of estrogen. Oatmeal Oats are rich in fiber and can prevent constipation on regular use. They may also help improve digestion, and lower blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels in the body.
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Best foods for improving blood count and circulation

Best foods for improving blood count and circulation

Several conditions can cause poor circulation in the body, including stress, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease. Poor circulation may also result from low blood count, wherein the body fails to produce the necessary red blood cells (RBCs) in a day. Furthermore, a low blood count can lead to symptoms like numbness, digestive problems, and cramps. So, here are a few healthy foods that help increase blood count and improve circulation. Foods to increase blood count Eating healthy results in several health benefits. Here are some foods that can help raise the red blood cell count in the body: Cherries Cherries are rich in vitamin C, which compliments iron absorption by the body. Eating cherries can result in an increase in red blood cells in the body. Egg yolk Yolks contain folic acid, which is essential as it helps maintain hemoglobin levels in the body. Red meat Red meat, like beef, lamb, and pork, promotes healthy blood levels. These foods contain iron that is easily absorbed by the blood. The process helps improve hemoglobin levels, which improves the production of red blood cells. Dairy products Moderately having cheese and milk benefits the heart and regulates blood levels. Milk alternatives like soy and almond milk also help improve blood count.
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5 foods to fight the symptoms of leukemia

5 foods to fight the symptoms of leukemia

Leukemia refers to types of cancer that develop in the blood cells. A person is at a greater risk of developing the disorder if they are over 55. However, it isn’t uncommon for younger children to also suffer from similar complications. Moreover, a permanent cure for leukemia is still in the works. However, one can still follow simple methods to manage the condition, including eating specific foods to fight cancerous cells. Berries Berries have a long history of benefits in improving overall health. When it comes to leukemia, they are rich in antioxidants, which are known to protect the body from free radicals. Berries are specifically known to fight the effects of breast, bladder, and esophagus cancers. Tomatoes The antioxidant lycopene present in tomatoes may help those with leukemia manage the symptoms. The food is also rich in other properties like vitamins A, C, and E, known to fight free radicals that may trigger cancer formations in the body. Tomatoes are also known to benefit those with prostate cancer. Yogurt Yogurt contains healthy bacteria that can improve how a person handles the foods they eat. This bacteria is also known to regulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the body.
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6 best immune-boosting foods

6 best immune-boosting foods

With flu season just around the corner, there are many precautions one can take to ensure one remains healthy and fit throughout. While the best course of action is to distance oneself from people who are sick, get vaccinated against the flu, and get adequate sleep (6-8 hours) every night, a very important part of staying healthy is to check one’s daily food habits. Six foods that can help boost immunity are: Citrus fruits Citrus fruits such as grapefruit, oranges, clementines, tangerines, lemons, and limes are rich in vitamin C, which is thought to improve the production of white blood cells (WBCs). These WBCs are imperative to fighting infections in the body. However, the body does not produce or store Vitamin C, so a daily intake is required to maintain healthy levels of it in the body. Red bell peppers Citrus fruits are not the only source of vitamin C. An ounce of red bell peppers contains almost three times as much vitamin C (127 mg), as compared to a Florida orange (45 mg). Bell peppers are also rich in beta-carotene, which converts into Vitamin A in the body, and is essential for maintaining skin and eye health. Broccoli Broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals.
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5 early warning signs of cancer

5 early warning signs of cancer

Cancer is an umbrella term used to describe conditions caused due to the multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. This growth can start in one organ and then spread or invade the surrounding tissues and travel to other body parts. Some of the most common types include breast, cervix, colon, and mouth cancers. Here are some early warning signs of cancer to look out for. Changes in the menstrual cycle One of the typical early warning signs of cancer is changes in the menstrual cycle. Many individuals will experience irregular or changes in their menstrual cycles over time. But, if there is persistent pain in the pelvic region and sudden changes in the cycle, it is essential to check it out. This issue could be an early cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer symptom. Coughing Coughing is mainly a symptom of a cold or a flu infection but is also typically seen as an early sign of certain types of cancer. If the cough is persistent even after two weeks, especially a dry cough, it could be a sign of lung cancer. Such a sign, accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, hoarseness, and shortness of breath, could indicate that it’s time to get checked by a healthcare professional.
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Does apple cider vinegar help manage acid reflux

Does apple cider vinegar help manage acid reflux

Acid reflux is a stomach abnormality caused by eating spicy foods, caffeine, heavy meals, and high-fatty foods. It irritates the esophagus lining when the muscles relax at the wrong time and send the stomach acid upwards. While this is a curable disease, frequent acid refluxes can lead to Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Among its many home remedies, apple cider vinegar is believed to relieve its symptoms, but related research is conflicted. What is apple cider vinegar made of? Apple cider vinegar is made from mashed apple juice, which is then fermented using bacteria and yeast. The added bacteria is referred to as the “mother” since it acts as a catalyst to create vinegar. The unfiltered and organic apple cider vinegar contains the “mother,” which gives it a hazy, dark brownish appearance. It is thought to be high in enzymes, pectin, and proteins. Non-organic variety is pasteurized to remove the bacteria and improve the consistency, making it less healthy. Does apple cider vinegar help with acid reflux? To answer simply, there aren’t enough studies to suggest a direct correlation between the two. Acid reflux brings a sour taste to one’s mouth and creates a burning sensation in the chest. For those who have poor stomach acid production, vinegar can boost stomach acidity and help with digestion.
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Here’s How to Get Relief from a Runny Nose

Here’s How to Get Relief from a Runny Nose

A runny nose is a common health condition experienced by almost every human. It may vary from a transparent fluid to glue-like mucus depending on the severity of the condition. This guide will help you know an important runny nose remedy and other treatments that can help a person deal with this condition. Causes of a runny nose A runny nose is caused due to excessive drainage that is produced by tissues and blood vessels in the nose and areas surrounding to it. It may be visible as it drains out of the nose and can often cause the nose to appear reddish or swollen. The technical terms for a runny nose are rhinorrhea and rhinitis. Rhinorrhea is clear and thin drainage from the nose, while rhinitis is caused due to swelling of the nasal tissues due to different reasons, resulting in a runny nose. The most widespread cause for a runny nose is the occurrence of the common cold or an infection in the sinuses. Other reasons for a runny nose include hay fever, dust, or pollen allergies and in rare cases—nasal polyps. A person should seek medical attention if the nose feels inflamed and painful. Preventive measures such as dusting or vacuuming regularly, avoiding polluted or smoke-filled areas, regular washing of all bedding and linen in the home, and using special air filters in the home can help prevent a runny use.
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7 signs of multiple myeloma to look out for

7 signs of multiple myeloma to look out for

Multiple myeloma is a rare type of cancer that leads to accumulating cancer cells in the bone marrow. It alters the blood’s plasma cells and lowers the body’s production of disease-fighting antibodies, thus causing a wide range of symptoms in the process. However, the disease often has no signs in its early stages, making it challenging to identify. Therefore, here are the silent signs of multiple myeloma to look out for: Fatigue Healthy blood cells allow the body to fight disease and infections easily. However, with the increase of cancerous cells in the body, it has to work much harder to fight infections, causing fatigue and weakness. Bone problems Since myeloma affects the bone marrow, it can affect the process of bone cell formation, which can lead to problems like bone pain and brittle or broken bones. Kidney problems The breakdown of bone in the body leads to a rise in calcium levels, which can lead to several complications like increased thirst and urination, constipation, confusion, and kidney damage. Low blood counts The multiplication of myeloma cells in the body leads to crowding out healthy blood cells. This reduces the occurrence of red blood cells (anemia) and white blood cells (leukopenia), making one more susceptible to infections.
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Lung cancer – Silent signs to look out for

Lung cancer – Silent signs to look out for

Lung cancer is among the leading causes of death in both men and women. Even though it is treatable, early detection and diagnosis are crucial. The two most common symptoms of the condition are believed to be persistent cough and shortness of breath, but in many cases, they do not appear until the advanced stages. So, here are a few other silent signs of lung cancer one should look out for. Fatter fingertips A few types of lung tumors produce hormone-like chemicals. These chemicals can push more fluid and blood to the fingertip tissues, making them look thicker or larger. Furthermore, the skin next to the nails can look shiny, and the nails may curve more. Statistics suggest that 80% of people with this symptom have lung cancer. Stomach issues Many people with lung cancer develop hypercalcemia, characterized by high amounts of calcium in the blood. The condition can lead to problems like stomach aches and constipation. Moreover, some hormone-like substances released by the tumors may cause kidney problems, leading to cramps and nausea. Hoarseness or changes in voice Some also notice a few changes in their voice, making it seem strained or raspy. This may happen due to the lung’s pressure on the nerve that controls the vocal cords.
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