Taking a bath every day seems so basic, right? It’s nothing new, and it’s an activity that requires the least effort or thought. All one needs is a steady supply of fresh water, some soap, a quality loofa, and time on hand. But surprisingly, many people unknowingly develop habits while bathing that can cause the skin to lose its natural shine and cause more harm. Bathing too long and using the wrong soap are just a few to name among the following bathing mistakes. Taking extreme hot water showers Hot water may work as an effective disinfectant, especially when used with a quality antibacterial soap. But bathing in super-hot water also strips the skin of essential lipids that lock in the oil and prevent cells from drying out. Therefore, it is advisable to mix hot and cold water to arrive at a tolerable temperature. Using a soap without moisturizer Water and soap mix to form a lather that helps clean out dead skin and dirt off the surface. But at the same time, this lather also sucks out the natural moisture. Using just soap is never enough. It’s better to switch to a moisturizing soap that helps lock in the natural oils and prevents the skin from drying out.

Junk food is known to be delicious, but opting for it regularly may do more harm than good. Eating right is one of the most important things to do to take care of the body and mind. In fact, increasing amounts of evidence suggest that certain foods may help ease the symptoms of depression. Hence, people dealing with depression are often suggested to eat healthy foods to nourish the body and mind. Managing depression – Foods to eat Eating regular meals is one of the first steps to becoming healthy. Furthermore, picking the right foods and avoiding certain items may also help manage mental health conditions such as depression. Thus, here are some of the nutrition-rich foods one can consider adding to their meal plan. Walnuts Multiple studies have confirmed that omega-3 fatty acids support brain function and even help in the reduction of depression symptoms. As walnuts are one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, experts suggest adding them to one’s meal plan. Some of the other omega-3-rich foods include flaxseed oil, canola oil, nuts, and fish. Avocado Usually, the brain needs healthy fat content to function smoothly. So, one can add avocados to their meal plan in the form of salads to ensure that the body and mind receive the required nutrition.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a prevalent health condition that leads to itchy, inflamed, cracked, and rough skin. It can be triggered by various factors, including foods (like dairy, nuts, and eggs) and environmental stressors (pollen, fragrances, and extreme heat). Further, the added ingredients in some types of soaps are notorious for worsening the symptoms. To control eczema flares, one must work with a healthcare practitioner to identify their triggers and find alternative products. Cocamidopropyl betaine This is a surfactant or foaming agent commonly used in cleaning products like soaps. When mixed with water, it produces a thick lather to remove dirt. Although extracted from coconut oil, this surfactant can trigger symptoms of eczema around the eyes, scalp, hands, and mouth. Added fragrances Using a scented soap might seem like a brilliant idea, but it may trigger symptoms of eczema. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), 8 to 15% of eczema patients are allergic to added fragrances. Soaps with fragrances may also contain dyes that further trigger the skin, leading to eczema flares. Although some products are labeled “unscented” or “fragrance-free,” they have certain chemical compounds to mask unpleasant natural odors from other ingredients. Experts recommend avoiding soaps with ingredients like cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol, isoeugenol, geraniol, hydroxycitronellal, oakmoss, and natural essential oils that are used for giving soap an appealing smell.

Food is fuel for the body. Therefore, maintaining a balance of essential vitamins, nutrients, and minerals sourced from daily foods is necessary to ensure proper bodily functions. Take the case of skeletal structure; there are 206 bones in the human body. It means a significant portion of daily nutrition intake goes into bone maintenance, growth, and repair of connector joints. Bones require calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which are abundant in the below foods. Dairy Dairy is one of the richest sources of calcium necessary for maintaining bone health. Full-fat milk, skim milk, buttermilk, plain yogurt, and Greek yogurt are all nutritious sources of calcium that can be easily incorporated into one’s daily meal plan. Even different types of cheese contain enough calcium to supplement bone health. Parmesan cheese tops the list, with cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese following suit. People who are lactose intolerant can substitute these products with soy milk, soy-based yogurt, almond milk, or even rice milk to get the daily dose of calcium and vitamin D. Seafood Sardines, salmon, and tuna are the top picks among seafood, being rich sources of calcium and vitamin D. Sardines can be consumed directly from the can in many ways.

Hair growth is influenced by several factors, such as age, health, genetics, environmental exposure, nutrition, and medical intervention. Maintaining a healthy nutrition plan can positively impact hair follicle growth and cellular turnover, which improves overall hair health, strength, and shine. According to certain studies, deficiencies of vitamins B12 and D, biotin, riboflavin, and iron can lead to hair loss. To maintain hair health and encourage growth, here are some foods to consider: Eggs Hair follicles are mostly made up of protein. To maintain their quality, it is essential to get the required amount of protein every day. Eggs are a rich source of protein as well as biotin, zinc, and selenium, which play a vital role in promoting hair growth and improving hair health. Berries Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are rich sources of antioxidants and vitamin C, which the body uses to produce collagen. Collagen supports hair strength, which is key for getting luscious locks. Vitamin C also helps absorb iron from food, and iron deficiency (anemia) has also been linked to hair loss. Greek yogurt Greek yogurt is packed with protein and vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which are important agents in the fight against hair thinning and loss.  Spinach Cruciferous vegetables like spinach and kale are loaded with nutrients like folate, vitamins A and C, and iron.

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes ulcers and inflammation in the digestive tract. It usually affects the innermost lining of the large intestine and the rectum. In most cases, the symptoms develop over time and can be uncomfortable and draining. If left untreated, ulcerative colitis may even lead to further life-threatening complications. While the condition does not have a known cure, there are various methods to manage it. Managing ulcerative colitis – Foods to eat In addition to treatments and lifestyle changes, patients can alter their meal plans to manage ulcerative colitis. This includes adding healthy foods and avoiding ones that can trigger a flare-up. Here are some nutrient-rich foods to consider: Bananas Although doctors recommend avoiding raw fruits with this digestive disorder, one may benefit from ripe and soft bananas. Bananas are good sources of carbohydrates, which blend with protein and fats to produce energy. Patients can also consider other soft fruits, such as pears and peaches, to ease the digestive process and manage the symptoms. Applesauce Like soft bananas, applesauce can be easily digested and is, hence, recommended for those with this disorder. However, one must carefully check the labels of store-bought applesauce and choose unsweetened varieties, as added sugar can increase inflammation.

Food is fuel for the body. Therefore, maintaining a balance of essential vitamins, nutrients, and minerals sourced from daily foods is necessary to ensure proper bodily functions. Take the case of skeletal structure; there are 206 bones in the human body. It means a significant portion of daily nutrition intake goes into bone maintenance, growth, and repair of connector joints. Bones require calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which are abundant in the below foods. Dairy Dairy is one of the richest sources of calcium necessary for maintaining bone health. Full-fat milk, skim milk, buttermilk, plain yogurt, and Greek yogurt are all nutritious sources of calcium that can be easily incorporated into one’s daily meal plan. Even different types of cheese contain enough calcium to supplement bone health. Parmesan cheese tops the list, with cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese following suit. People who are lactose intolerant can substitute these products with soy milk, soy-based yogurt, almond milk, or even rice milk to get the daily dose of calcium and vitamin D. Seafood Sardines, salmon, and tuna are the top picks among seafood, being rich sources of calcium and vitamin D. Sardines can be consumed directly from the can in many ways.

Hair growth is influenced by several factors, such as age, health, genetics, environmental exposure, nutrition, and medical intervention. Maintaining a healthy nutrition plan can positively impact hair follicle growth and cellular turnover, which improves overall hair health, strength, and shine. According to certain studies, deficiencies of vitamins B12 and D, biotin, riboflavin, and iron can lead to hair loss. To maintain hair health and encourage growth, here are some foods to consider: Eggs Hair follicles are mostly made up of protein. To maintain their quality, it is essential to get the required amount of protein every day. Eggs are a rich source of protein as well as biotin, zinc, and selenium, which play a vital role in promoting hair growth and improving hair health. Berries Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are rich sources of antioxidants and vitamin C, which the body uses to produce collagen. Collagen supports hair strength, which is key for getting luscious locks. Vitamin C also helps absorb iron from food, and iron deficiency (anemia) has also been linked to hair loss. Greek yogurt Greek yogurt is packed with protein and vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which are important agents in the fight against hair thinning and loss.  Spinach Cruciferous vegetables like spinach and kale are loaded with nutrients like folate, vitamins A and C, and iron.

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes ulcers and inflammation in the digestive tract. It usually affects the innermost lining of the large intestine and the rectum. In most cases, the symptoms develop over time and can be uncomfortable and draining. If left untreated, ulcerative colitis may even lead to further life-threatening complications. While the condition does not have a known cure, there are various methods to manage it. Managing ulcerative colitis – Foods to eat In addition to treatments and lifestyle changes, patients can alter their meal plans to manage ulcerative colitis. This includes adding healthy foods and avoiding ones that can trigger a flare-up. Here are some nutrient-rich foods to consider: Bananas Although doctors recommend avoiding raw fruits with this digestive disorder, one may benefit from ripe and soft bananas. Bananas are good sources of carbohydrates, which blend with protein and fats to produce energy. Patients can also consider other soft fruits, such as pears and peaches, to ease the digestive process and manage the symptoms. Applesauce Like soft bananas, applesauce can be easily digested and is, hence, recommended for those with this disorder. However, one must carefully check the labels of store-bought applesauce and choose unsweetened varieties, as added sugar can increase inflammation.

Osteoporosis is a widespread disease that affects 10 million people in the country. It is characterized by weakened bones that become more vulnerable to fractures. So, people with the condition are more likely to break a bone after a minor fall or accident. While many factors can contribute to its development, nutrition plays an integral role in preventing and managing this disease. Balanced, nutrient-rich meals can help prevent bone loss and strengthen the body.  Best foods Nutrition is essential in the prevention and management of osteoporosis. A food plan rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, vitamin D, and protein will help one maintain bone health and lower the risk of fractures. Further, increasing muscle strength can protect one against falls that could cause fractures. People with osteoporosis must consult a physician and registered nutritionist to create a nutritional regimen that meets their needs and helps them improve bone health. Here are some of the best foods for osteoporosis prevention: Dairy products Dairy products are excellent sources of calcium— a nutrient essential for strengthening bones. Three portions of dairy products daily, for example, foods with cheese, milk, or yogurt, can help lower the risk of osteoporosis. However, those with lactose intolerance or sensitivity may have to fulfill their calcium requirement through other sources, like nuts and seeds.