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6 common migraine triggers to be aware of
Health

6 common migraine triggers to be aware of

A migraine is a severe form of headache occurring on one side of the head. It is also characterized by nausea, light and sound sensitivity, vomiting and, sometimes, loss of appetite or cravings. The most common migraine types are aura migraine, which affects vision, and common migraine, wherein vision is not compromised. This article discusses the most common migraine triggers, as well as treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle changes to alleviate its effects: Various factors are involved in causing a migraine. It is best to know the causes of one’s migraine so that the treatment options can be recommended accordingly. Here are some common migraine triggers. Stress Stress is a highly common cause of migraine. It can alter brain structures and functions, causing or aggravating migraine. Excess stress can often lead to a vicious cycle, wherein individuals with high stress levels develop migraine, which further elevates stress. Hormonal changes Hormonal changes, particularly in women, are major triggers of migraine. Women may experience severe migraines at the onset of periods or during pregnancy and menopause. Contraceptive pills can exacerbate the condition in some women. Weather fluctuations Changes in weather can trigger hormonal imbalances in the brain, particularly the serotonin levels, causing a migraine.
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7 foods to avoid when dealing with Crohn’s disease
Health

7 foods to avoid when dealing with Crohn’s disease

Inflammatory bowel illnesses like Crohn’s disease make the tissues in the digestive tract swell (inflammation), which can cause abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, exhaustion, and malnutrition. Choosing the right food can be challenging when affected by Crohn’s disease as certain foods, especially those thought to be healthy, such as raw fruits and vegetables, might cause a Crohn’s flare-up or exacerbate symptoms. So here are some foods that should be avoided when dealing with Crohn’s disease: Caffeine Cramping, bloating, and diarrhea can be brought on by caffeinated beverages, so coffee and caffeinated sodas should all be avoided during an attack. Instead, one can opt for other fluids, water, or even broth to get hydrated. People with Crohn’s should also avoid high-sugar sports beverages as diarrhea may worsen with excessive sugar. Herbal or decaffeinated teas are great alternatives for coffee. One should keep an eye on their urine and aim for pale-yellow urine color throughout the day by drinking adequate fluids. Popcorn Popcorn is a beloved food that is strong in fiber and frequently chosen as a light snack with melted butter. Unfortunately, Crohn’s symptoms can be triggered by both fiber and fat. In general, a low-fat, low-residue diet or a diet devoid of high-fiber or fatty foods is beneficial for those with Crohn’s disease.
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5 skin care mistakes that lead to premature aging
Health

5 skin care mistakes that lead to premature aging

Although some of us might enjoy the benefits of aging, such as maturity, knowledge, and feeling comfortable in our skin, most don’t want to develop dull, wrinkled skin. And even though the aging process is a one-way trip that none of us can stop, we can slow it down. These five anti-aging skin care tips are frequently ignored, yet they could be the underlying cause of your drooping skin and early fine lines and wrinkles. Not removing makeup The most fundamental phase in a skincare program is washing. Numerous chemicals, filth, bacteria, and other pollutants collect in the skin’s pores; and getting rid of them is necessary as they can cause various skin issues. Also, going to bed with makeup is a typical skincare error that can harm your skin. After a long day, taking the time to remove your makeup may be the last thing you want to do, but it’s necessary to prevent skin damage. Cosmetics can accumulate in the pores if you apply them and leave them on throughout the night. So every night before bed, cleanse your skin to remove makeup residue that could otherwise cause issues such as acne, blackheads, pigmentation, wrinkles, and irritation. Over-exfoliating the skin We are all aware that removing the outer layer of dead, dull skin cells reveals softer, smoother, and evenly toned skin.
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10 foods to avoid to prevent Crohn’s flare-ups
Health

10 foods to avoid to prevent Crohn’s flare-ups

Crohn’s, an inflammatory bowel disease, can have long-term consequences like digestive tract inflammation or malnutrition. Symptoms like diarrhea, stomachache, and body cramps interfere with your daily routine, making it difficult to have proper meals or lead a normal life. Thankfully, you can help minimize the symptoms by avoiding certain foods that are not good for Crohn’s. It is advisable to draw up a routine and maintain proper eating habits to prevent flare-ups. Food items and ingredients to avoid to prevent Crohn’s disease flare-ups Whole grains The fiber in whole-grain bread, whole-wheat pasta, and popcorn can pass too quickly through your stomach, making it tough for your body to digest the same. This can lead to pain, bloating, or loose motion. Hence, staying away from these foods is a good idea if you have Crohn’s disease. Beans Beans are usually very healthy and nutritious. But, they can lead to gas since they are rich in fiber. Thus, avoid beans for the sake of your digestive health if you are suffering from Crohn’s disease. Even processed beans should be avoided. Fruits and vegetables Fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals. But they also contain a lot of insoluble fiber, which, as mentioned above, is not a good option in Crohn’s disease.
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4 vitamins that help maintain eye health
Health

4 vitamins that help maintain eye health

Eyesight is one of the most crucial senses, so the eyes need proper care on a daily basis. Multiple eye health complications can develop due to poor nutrition and improper care. If left unchecked, these problems may trigger vision loss or distorted vision, requiring corrective measures like eyeglasses or lenses. However, one can ensure that they have certain vitamins that are absolutely vital nutrients to protect the eyes and improve vision. Vitamin A Most fruits and vegetables contain vitamin A and plant compounds like beta carotene. Studies show that vitamin A helps improve visibility in low lighting conditions. The body also converts essential beta carotene compounds into vitamin A to further meet daily requirements. Beta carotene is instrumental in enabling the retina to produce more pigments that help enhance visibility. Additionally, the eyes also benefit from compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin found in plant-based foods. This is why nutritionists recommend adding carrots, red peppers, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins to daily meals. Ideally, nutritionists recommend maintaining a steady daily intake of up to 900 micrograms of vitamin A for men and 700 micrograms for women. Vitamin E The eyes also need antioxidants to combat free radicals triggering cell damage in healthy tissues.
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9 healthy foods that help boost the immune system
Health

9 healthy foods that help boost the immune system

The immune system includes complex processes, chemicals, and cells that defend the body against foreign invaders like viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. When left unchecked, these invaders may lead to severe health complications. The immune system needs adequate nutrition to function efficiently and prevent infections or diseases. One could take supplements to build their immunity. However, healthy foods like the ones listed below may also help boost the immune system and keep illnesses at bay. Oranges Several people turn to foods rich in vitamin C to fight the symptoms of a cold. Oranges are a healthy source of vitamin C which helps improve the production of white blood cells. So eating this citrus fruit will help build the immune system and ward off or prevent potential health issues. Other healthy citrus fruits rich in vitamin C include clementines, grapefruit, limes, lemons, and tangerines. Broccoli The vegetable is flush with nutrients that can benefit one’s immune system. Broccoli is abundant in vitamin C, which boosts white blood cell production. The vegetable is also rich in vitamin K1, a vitamin necessary for blood clotting. Furthermore, it contains iron, an essential mineral for transporting oxygen across the red blood cells. Broccoli is also high in proteins, which are the building blocks of the human body.
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Health

4 healthy foods for nursing mothers

Mothers who have recently delivered babies don’t have sufficient nutrition due to the loss of blood and lactation. As a result, they have to carefully choose foods that are rich in calcium, carbohydrate, unsaturated fat, iron, folic acid, protein, and vitamins B6, B12, C, and D. Thankfully, healthy foods and supplements can help them regain strength and supply breastmilk to their newborns. The top four superfoods that can help nursing mothers include: Bananas Bananas are less expensive, available throughout the year, and considered a superfood for nursing moms. They are rich in nutrients, healthy carbs, vitamin B, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Bananas are also abundant in potassium, calcium, and pectin, a source of energy. Experts claim that having a banana every day can help moms regain the energy they need to take care of the baby and breastfeed. Potassium is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the mother’s body and aids in the rampant transmission of nerve impulses.  Bananas can also aid in regulating blood pressure. It can prevent constipation, aid in regular bowel movements, and promote healthy gut bacteria. These fruits can provide about 1/4th of the vitamin B6 required for nursing moms, which is crucial for hemoglobin production and fighting antibodies.
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Health

6 toxic plants to keep away from dogs

It has become the norm to keep ornamental at home, especially since they beautify the space tremendously. But, if you are a pet parent, you must exercise caution in picking the potted plants you want. While some plants can cause vomiting or dysentery, a few can cause respiratory, digestive, neurological, or cardiac problems, leading to death. If you have become a pet parent recently, here are six plants toxic to dogs to note: 6 plants that dog parents must take note of Sago palm Sago palm is a very popular ornamental plant for indoor and outdoor spaces. It is known by many names like coontie palms or cardboard palms and is part of the Cycads group of plants. It contains multiple toxins, including cycasin and BMAA. Every part of the sago palm is toxic for your dogs, and the seeds can be the most dangerous. If a dog ingests even a small amount of any part of a sago palm plant, it can affect its nervous system, liver, or gastrointestinal system. You may see symptoms within 15 minutes or many hours. The most common reaction is gastrointestinal irritation, with initial symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also lead to serious complications like neurological problems, resulting in weakness, seizures, and tremors.
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Pets

6 human foods that cats can safely eat

Cats are picky eaters, but they may jump with glee if you share a titbit from your plate. Felines love variety in food, and you can share some of your food if it is nutritious and non-toxic. Moderation is the key when you feed human food to your cat so that it does not cause any allergies or digestive issues. Here is a list of six human foods that are safe for your cats: Eggs Small quantities of cooked eggs are good for cats. You can set aside a tablespoon of scrambled egg or a piece of a boiled egg while you cook some for yourself. Don’t season it, add any oil or butter, or  feed raw eggs or yolks. Eggs contain a protein called Avidin that may prevent the absorption of Vitamin B. Raw eggs could contain Salmonella, a bacteria that can infect the GI tract of both cats and humans. Severe infection may lead to death in cats, while humans may need hospitalization. Vegetables Cats are carnivores and are partial to meat; a non-meat diet may not excite them as much. However, you can feed small portions of a few vegetables that can supply your cat’s fiber, protein, and nutrition requirements.
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Pets

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs

Dogs get affected with fleas or ticks due to spending time on grassy trails, lush parks, or moist areas. And these pests can cause itching and skin damage if not controlled in time. Flea and ticks leave eggs and larvae on the coat, which can be challenging to eradicate. They can also lead to Lyme disease and other debilitating conditions. Following are tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs: Consider the following treatment options Bravecto chew Bravecto chew is a chewable treatment option that you can administer along with your dog’s food. It contains fluralaner, an active ingredient that spreads quickly through the dog’s tissues and the skin. Fleas and ticks in the coat ingest minute amounts of fluralaner, which affects their central nervous system, killing them within 12 hours. One dose of Bravecto is effective for about 12 weeks. If your dog is sensitive to the treatment option and vomits within three hours of ingestion, contact your vet, as it may be less impactful in killing the ticks and fleas. Bravecto is also effective in preventing heartworms and intestinal worms. Simparica This prescription treatment option is ideal for dogs over six months and can be administered monthly.

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7 common plants that are dangerous for cats

7 common plants that are dangerous for cats

Cats are naturally curious and tend to grab and play with things they find in their environment. So, they can end up grabbing or even chewing on dangerous plants, which can cause multiple complications and health-related issues. Cat parents should exercise caution when exposing their feline companions to outdoor environments or their own home and garden that can house poisonous plants. Some of the common plants that are toxic to cats are: Amaryllis Amaryllis is a popular indoor and outdoor plant that is grown in pots and containers, making it a popular gift during the holiday season. Cats can be drawn to its vibrant flowers, however, the plant contains toxins like lycorine and phenanthridine alkaloids. While the bulbs have the highest concentration of toxins, the stalks are also poisonous to cats. If ingested, cats can experience symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. They may even seem lazy, lethargic, and show no willingness to eat. Other severe effects include a drop in their blood pressure and seizures. Autumn crocus The autumn crocus contains colchicine and other alkaloids, which can be toxic to many animals, including cats. If cats chew on the flower or seeds of this ornamental plant, they can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.
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Top 5 human foods that are also safe for dogs

Top 5 human foods that are also safe for dogs

If you own a pet, you know that every time you eat, your dog sits right next to you in hopes that you’ll share your food. Human food can be safe for dogs if it doesn’t contain toxins. Every pet owner must know which food is and isn’t suitable for your furry friend. This way, you can feed your dog the right foods. Here are some foods you can share with your dogs without hesitation: Fish Just like omega-3 fatty acids benefits humans, it can also help dogs fight inflammation. Fish is also an alternative source of protein for dogs that may be allergic to red meat. Ensure that you cook it well without too much oil and seasoning. Raw fish may contain salmonella and listeria, causing infection for the dog and your family. Clean and pick the bones well before serving them. Fish bones are risky for dogs, as they can lodge in their mouth, throat, and intestines or perforate their organ walls. Choose fish that have lower mercury levels. Ideal fish for dogs include tuna, whitefish, cod, and whiting. Meat Meat is a natural dog-friendly food, as they are carnivores. If you are preparing the meat at home, choose lean ground beef, chuck steak, chicken, turkey, or roast.
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Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Top 7 beauty and fashion trends

Fashion trends are dynamic and go through constant change and innovation. While some styles have remained timeless for decades, some trends fail to impress and disappear without making an impact. The approach to beauty today focuses on sustainability, minimalism, inclusion, and no cruelty. The trends in beauty and fashion quite naturally follow similar lines. Based on these factors, some of the top beauty and fashion trends in the coming year are as follows: Skincare The buzzword in the last couple of years has been minimalism, especially for skin care. Women prefer to use lesser products for their skincare routines. Utilizing a bevy of cosmetics for everyday skin nourishment and enhancement is time-consuming, overwhelming, and may affect the skin negatively. Skincare trends focus on improving skin health and reducing the negative impact of long-term use of skin-related products. This move hopes to reduce the overuse of skincare and control the damage caused by chemical products. Microbiome skincare is a new trend, featuring prebiotic and probiotic components that nourish the skin. Hybrid beauty Hybrid cosmetics combine multiple active ingredients that now work both as skin care products and as cosmetics. It reduces the time one spends on beauty routine and the number of products one needs to buy, saving money, effort, and time.
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Top 5 cat foods that are recommended by vets

Top 5 cat foods that are recommended by vets

Cats are strict carnivores by nature, and their bodies cannot digest a carbohydrate-rich diet. And pet parents must feed them a nutritionally balanced diet matching their weight, age, lifestyle, and current health condition. Look for food with animal protein as the prime ingredient and has fatty acids, essential amino acids, and minerals. If you are unsure of what food to choose, you can consider the following vet-recommended food for your cats: Human-Grade Fresh, Wet Cat Food by Smalls Smalls is an ultra-high protein USDA-certified cat food subscription service that uses humanely harvested and human-grade ingredients. Trained chefs prepare the food avoiding cheaper fillers like carbs and grains that add volume and reduce cost. The food does not contain any preservatives. You can choose from chicken, a combination of chicken and turkey, beef, or fish for fresh food. Freeze-dried raw cat food is available in turkey, duck, and chicken flavors. While fresh meals can go to the freezer, freeze-dried raw food can be in the pantry. One package may last five meals, and you must read the instructions to store the leftover package properly to avoid contamination. The approximate cost of Smalls cat food is $2.50 to $3.50 daily. Pro Plan® Focus Adult Weight Management Cat food by Purina® Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Weight Management Cat food is available without a prescription and is a less expensive alternative for weight loss diets.
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