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Top 9 household items that are linked with cancer
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Top 9 household items that are linked with cancer

The increasing number of people falling prey to cancer is rising, and ensuring that every home remains safe has become more important. Unbeknownst to many of us, numerous products we bring into our homes repeatedly contribute to the increased cancer risk. From everyday products found in kitchens to unsuspecting items in bathrooms and beyond, we can make changes that can create healthier environments and help prioritize our well-being. Let’s learn which household items to avoid. Cleaning products Most conventional cleaning products are being flagged for being harmful to health. They contain chemicals that make these products endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, and in some cases, respiratory irritants. Various ingredients, including ammonia, formaldehyde, and phthalates, have been researched to be associated with different types of cancer. To avoid the risk of the disease, adopting eco-friendly alternatives with natural compounds is suggested. You can also use kitchen ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon to make your cleaners at home. Personal care products We are constantly bombarded with a range of personal care products that pop up in the market every day. And this drives our curiosity to try and test various products that claim to have so many benefits. However, some personal care products like soaps, shampoos, deodorants, and others can contain harmful ingredients.
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10 foods to avoid when dealing with atrial fibrillation
Health

10 foods to avoid when dealing with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a condition characterized by rapid, irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia, which begins in the heart’s upper chambers or atria. As less blood is pumped out of the atria, it can accumulate in this region, causing blood clots and increasing the chances of developing a stroke. In addition to timely treatment, a healthy lifestyle and meal plan can help one recover from atrial fibrillation. Here are some foods people with the condition should avoid: Processed foods Processed foods contain salt in large amounts, so they can increase sodium levels in the body. High blood pressure and heart disease are common consequences of a high-sodium meal plan. So, those with atrial fibrillation should avoid processed foods like frozen pizza and extremely salty foods like fries, chips, and burgers and replace them with healthy carb and fat sources. Red meat Although red meat is an excellent source of iron and protein, it is rich in saturated fats, which can increase the risk of developing heart diseases and aggravate atrial fibrillation symptoms. So, when dealing with atrial fibrillation, one should limit their red meat intake, replacing it with lean meat sources like poultry and venison. Sugary foods Studies have demonstrated that those with type-2 diabetes are more susceptible to developing atrial fibrillation than those with normal blood sugar levels.
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6 foods that help increase red blood cell count
Health

6 foods that help increase red blood cell count

Red blood cells (RBCs) are essential to ensure the proper functioning of vital organs in the body. The transportation of nutrients and oxygen to these organs depends heavily on RBCs. It’s important to note that insufficient RBCs can lead to organ dysfunction, which is why maintaining a healthy RBC count is crucial. Fortunately, one way to achieve this is through proper nutrition. Several foods can help increase RBC count, ensuring the body functions at its best. Pumpkin seeds These seeds are well-known for their cardiovascular health benefits and can also help increase a person’s red blood cell count. Pumpkin seeds have a characteristic crunchy feel, making them a handy snack option for people to munch on every now and again. More importantly, these seeds contain almost eight milligrams of iron along with nutrients like magnesium, calcium, and manganese. All these elements are essential to boost red blood cell production in a person’s body. Moreover, pumpkin seeds also contain loads of copper, another mineral associated with increasing the red blood cells in the body and enhancing one’s immune system. As stated, pumpkin seeds can be eaten alone or sprinkled over smoothies or salads. Regardless of how one consumes them, pumpkin seeds are a great way to increase hemoglobin levels.
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Warning signs of poor eye health due to high sugar levels
Health

Warning signs of poor eye health due to high sugar levels

This may not be widely known, but diabetes can also affect eye health when the blood sugar levels are very high in the body. The condition typically has many signs and symptoms that point toward deteriorating eye health; for example, high sugar levels can change the fluid levels in the eyes, cause swelling, or even damage tiny blood vessels. So, let’s look at some of the signs of poor eye health due to high sugar. Blurry vision If you are suddenly experiencing blurry vision, this may be likely due to the high sugar level in the blood. Blurry vision is usually a temporary problem and can be resolved by getting the glucose back to normal. The normal blood sugar should be between 70-130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL post meals. Once these numbers are under control, you can notice your blurry vision improving. It is said that it usually takes around 3 months of constant care and observation to fix the problem, so be consistent in your efforts, and you will see the results. Of course, always speak to your doctor to rule out any other causes for the blurry vision and ensure you are taking the right treatment.
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Effects of excessive sugar consumption on the teeth and its signs
Health

Effects of excessive sugar consumption on the teeth and its signs

Most people consume sugar on a daily basis. However, one may not know the dental problems associated with excessive sugar. These often include common issues such as cavities/tooth decay, tooth enamel erosion, gingivitis, and other diseases that can hamper oral health. If you are partial to fizzy drinks and sweets, you may want to learn about dental problems caused by excessive sugar and the signs to keep an eye out for. What are the common dental problems caused by excessive sugar? Tooth enamel erosion The shiny enamel layer on the teeth protects the body part against the effects of crunching, grinding, chewing, and biting. But it is susceptible to damage. So, when one drinks sodas and other sugary foods and beverages constantly, it can cause the bad bacteria in the mouth to eat away at the enamel, leading to its erosion. This can be further aggravated by the failure to clean the teeth regularly. Cavities/ Tooth decay Due to excessive consumption of sugar, one can have damaged areas in their teeth. These are commonly known as cavities and can develop into small holes or openings on the surface of the teeth. The main cause behind the formation of cavities is the bad bacteria in the mouth, namely Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sorbinus.
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7 signs of low immunity due to excessive sugar
Health

7 signs of low immunity due to excessive sugar

When eaten in moderation, sugar may have some benefits, such as improving one’s energy levels. However, excess consumption can have damaging effects on one’s immune system. It could result in the growth of unhealthy bacteria and yeast, which could compromise one’s immunity and lead to adverse effects on one’s overall well-being. So if the immune system is affected due to excessive sugar intake, here are seven signs one might experience. Regular cold Generally, adults may experience about two or three colds each year. People also usually recover in seven to ten days after falling ill. Recovery is possible because the immune system develops antibodies in about three to four days to fight the cold-causing germs. However, when immunity is weakened due to factors like too much sugar intake, it could affect the ways in which one’s immune system develops antibodies to tackle these invaders. So if one experiences regular colds, or develops one that does not run its usual course, it could indicate a problem with their immune system that requires an expert’s opinion. Stress Stress might be triggered by several factors, including significant life changes, constant worrying, and possibly work. However, if one finds themselves feeling high levels of stress for prolonged periods of time, it could indicate a weak immune system.
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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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