Alzheimer’s is a disorder in which a person’s ability to think, behave reasonably, and remember things gets compromised. It is categorized as a relatively rare type of dementia. Although Alzheimer’s is an age-driven condition, what people eat also influences their chances of developing it. Sugar-heavy meals eventually lead to hyperglycemia and can accelerate Alzheimer’s in individuals when they grow old. Here are some common links between Alzheimer’s and high blood sugar: Memory loss Alzheimer’s affects the brain’s information retention zones. Therefore, people with this disease find it challenging to recollect anything, even the incidents that happened a few days before. Poor memory is accompanied by poor judgment, meaning these individuals constantly make bad decisions that make life difficult for themselves and those close to them. For instance, it is not uncommon for someone with Alzheimer’s to falsely blame someone else for a theft or mistake they may have made. This is a point at which Alzheimer’s and high blood sugar intersect. Consuming too much sugar leads to cognitive decline. Besides, sugar kills brain cells, so having too much of it in one’s bloodstream causes memory and attention problems. In short, sugar consumption tends to worsen Alzheimer’s symptoms with time. Many symptoms of type 3 diabetes, such as memory loss, lack of initiative, and difficulty completing familiar tasks, are identical to those of Alzheimer’s.

Getting a good night’s sleep is critical to having a productive and stress-free routine. The mind and body require adequate rest to recoup and revive after a tiring day. But have you ever thought about understanding the various sleeping positions you adopt subconsciously? Every position has a unique advantage and disadvantage and greatly impacts your sleep quality. So here are the best sleeping positions to try out and find a suitable posture. Sleeping on the side Sleeping on one side has a number of health benefits. Doctors suggest sleeping on the left side to improve digestion, as the angle of the stomach makes food move along the digestive tract easily. This further lowers the incidence of heartburn as the stomach acids cannot be churned up the esophagus due to the tipping angle. Sleeping on the side also lowers the pressure put on the neck and esophagus, preventing obstruction of the airways. However, sleeping on the side may cause the shoulders and jaw areas to become stiff due to the body weight shifting on one side. It’s best to support the position with multiple pillows to avoid pain and discomfort. Sleeping on your back This is a common position that is restful and promotes a good night’s sleep.

Daily nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining overall lung health. Foods and beverages should be consumed in such a manner that ensures the organ receives the necessary nutrients to perform at optimal capacity. However, many foods and beverages lead to the development of chronic discomforts ranging from shortness of breath to pain in the lungs. Here are five foods to avoid or consume in moderation for better lung health. Processed cuts of meat Deli meats are infused with additives and even artificial coloring or flavoring to enhance the taste. So, all cuts of processed meats like bacon, ham, sausage, hot dogs, and lunch meats are not recommended for regular consumption. Furthermore, if anyone is already experiencing respiratory disorders, it’s better to avoid processed cuts of meat. Many cuts contain carcinogens like sodium nitrate released upon cooking on a high flame. This increases the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), increasing lung discomfort and causing breathing difficulties. Sugary foods and beverages Sugar is empty calories meaning adding sugar to daily foods and beverages only enhances the flavor. There is no additional nutritional value gained from adding it. On the contrary, research suggests a link between regular sugar consumption and mucus production obstructing nasal passage.

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing and socially uncomfortable condition. It is often caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down food particles and producing foul-smelling gasses. While regular oral hygiene is crucial, certain foods can naturally aid combat bad breath by helping to neutralize odor-causing compounds and promote healthier oral hygiene. Here are the five foods that can fight bad breath naturally and should be added to one’s food regime. Apples An apple a day not keeps the doctor away but can also help keep bad breath at bay. Fiber-rich apples aid in saliva production. Saliva is the natural cleansing agent of the mouth. It helps rinse away odor-causing bacteria and food particles that may linger in the mouth after eating. Additionally, the natural sweetness of apples can temporarily mask any unpleasant odors. Yogurt Yogurt, particularly the plain and unsweetened variety, is packed with probiotics and beneficial bacteria. These probiotics help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which are often responsible for causing bad breath. Yogurt also contains lactoferrin, a protein that has antimicrobial properties, further contributing to a fresher breath. Parsley Parsley isn’t just a garnish; it can be a powerful weapon against bad breath.

Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest and throat, is a common discomfort that many people experience due to acid reflux. While it is not a life-threatening condition, chronic heartburn can cause some serious health problems when left untreated. To prevent heartburn and its associated discomfort, it is essential to be mindful of certain triggers and make some healthy lifestyle changes. Here are some things to avoid for heartburn relief. Spicy foods Foods such as hot peppers and curry can trigger heartburn by irritating the esophagus. Avoiding these can help reduce the our risk of heartburn. Citrus fruits Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and their juices are acidic and can exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Opt for less acidic fruits like bananas or apples instead. Tomatoes and tomato-based products Tomatoes and tomato-based sauces are also acidic and can cause heartburn. Try using a low-acid tomato sauce or alternative sauces when cooking. Fatty foods High-fat foods like fried foods, fatty cuts of meat, and rich dairy products can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. So, opt for leaner options to reduce the risk of heartburn. Chocolate Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which can relax the LES and lead to acid reflux.

Prurigo nodularis is a chronic skin condition that leads to itchy, stiff, and raised nodules or papules on the skin’s surface. It is a fairly common disease that many people experience across the country. The nodules often appear in clusters and can cause intense itching, discomfort, and distress to those affected. While prurigo nodularis typically develops gradually, several symptoms signal its onset. A few such early signs are listed below. Itchy skin Intense itching is the most prominent and persistent early sign. It can be localized to a specific body area or more widespread. The itching may start as a mild itch but worsen over time. Moreover, it may get out of control when someone scratches vigorously. If itchy skin gets worse or does not go away, one should visit a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. Red or brown bumps In the early stages, tiny red or brownish bumps may appear on the skin’s surface. These bumps are often raised and hard to the touch. Their size can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Nodule formation The red or brown bumps may develop into larger, hard nodules or papules as the condition progresses. These nodules can be pretty firm and may be dome-shaped or flat-topped.

In an era of rapidly evolving viruses, it’s essential to have a robust immune system capable of defending against emerging threats. Apart from vaccines like GSK Novavax, there are numerous lifestyle choices and practices that can bolster one’s immune system and enhance respiratory health against new-age viruses. The global COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, highlighted the vital role of respiratory health. The virus primarily targets the lungs, causing mild symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath to severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress. The long-term effects of the virus have left many individuals grappling with persistent respiratory symptoms. The pandemic has also exposed vulnerabilities in individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, making it imperative to prioritize lung health. Ways to improve immunity against severe respiratory viruses Getting prompt treatments Treatment options for viruses like COVID-19 include vaccination, which plays a pivotal role in preventing severe respiratory issues. Vaccines, available in both mRNA and non-mRNA formats, stimulate the immune system to build defenses against the virus, reducing the likelihood of infection and the severity of respiratory symptoms. Protein-based vaccines like Novavax also offer an alternative approach to bolster immunity against respiratory viruses. These vaccines collectively provide valuable tools in the fight against new-age viruses targeting respiratory systems.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition affecting millions worldwide. It is an inflammatory lung disease affecting the airflow. While it often develops over many years and includes a group of diseases, including bronchitis and asthma, it may also develop due to various environmental factors. Recognizing the early signs of the condition is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management. So, here are some early signs of COPD to watch out for. Persistent cough A persistent cough is one of COPD’s earliest and most noticeable signs. This cough may initially be mild due to allergies or a common cold. However, if the cough lingers for several weeks or months, it could be a warning sign of COPD. COPD-related coughing is often accompanied by increased mucus production and worsens over time. Shortness of breath Feeling short of breath, especially during physical activities or even while at rest, could be an alarming symptom of COPD. This symptom typically develops gradually; individuals may initially attribute it to aging or being out of shape. However, if the shortness of breath becomes more pronounced and interferes with daily activities, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Wheezing Wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, is another early indicator of COPD.

Blood clots, medically known as thrombosis, are a common concern that can lead to health issues if not managed properly. They can develop in various parts of the body and potentially block blood flow to vital organs. To minimize the risk of blood clots, one must be vigilant in avoiding certain habits that contribute to their formation. So, here are five crucial precautions one should take to reduce the likelihood of developing blood clots: Sedentary lifestyle According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), being physically inactive is associated with a higher risk of blood clots, especially for older adults and those with clotting disorders. So, sitting for prolonged periods, whether at work or during leisure, is a significant risk factor for blood clots. A sedentary lifestyle can slow down blood circulation, increasing the chances of clot formation. This is why it is essential to break up long periods of sitting with short walks or stretches to keep the blood flowing. Regular physical activity helps maintain healthy blood circulation and reduces the risk of clot formation. Dehydration Water is essential for maintaining the fluidity of blood and minimizing clot formation. When the body is dehydrated, blood can become thicker and more prone to clotting.

One may not always have time for elaborate breakfast spreads, say, while they are running late for work, school, or other daily tasks. Alternatively, one may simply want to work with a quick and easy recipe in the morning. This is where easy-to-make recipes come in. With a focus on simplicity and nutrition, the following breakfast ideas are perfect for busy mornings when one needs a nutritious yet tasty start to the day: Greek yogurt parfait Greek yogurt is a protein-packed powerhouse that serves as a creamy and satisfying base for a nutritious breakfast snack. One can layer it with fresh berries, honey, granola, and nuts to create a parfait. The combination of creamy yogurt and crunchy toppings offers a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Overnight oats Overnight oats are a time-saving breakfast option. All one has to do is combine rolled oats, milk (or a milk alternative), sweetener, and a choice of flavoring (like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or cocoa powder) in a jar. This should be left in the refrigerator overnight, and in the morning, one will have a creamy, ready-to-eat meal. One could also add toppings such as sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for additional flavor and nutrition.