Water Intake – Best Time to Drink and its Benefits

Water Intake – Best Time to Drink and its Benefits

Drinking water is essential to keep body organs functioning at their optimum best. However, drinking too much or too little can affect the body in many ways. Dehydration can often affect cognitive functions, memory, and physical performance. Therefore, drinking water the right way at the right time is essential. Although most people know the importance of water, they don’t know the best time to drink it. So, let’s look at the best times to drink water daily. When you wake up Though most people reach for a cup of coffee, it is best to drink one or two cups of water as soon as you wake up. It helps you hydrate after 8 hours of no water and food, which typically causes slight dehydration. The water in the morning helps get your fluids back to baseline levels.  When you sweat When you exercise or use a sauna, you naturally sweat and lose a lot of water. During such activities, it is ideal to drink not just water after your activity but also before and during your workout. Keep a one-liter bottle filled with flavored or regular water at all times. Sip between 6 and 12 ounces every 15 minutes when you are active. After a workout, you can freely drink up to 24 ounces of water to restore the lost fluids. Before or during meals Do you sometimes feel hungry when you are thirsty? It happens to most people. Thus, drinking water before a meal ensures that you do not overeat. Also, most nutritionists suggest drinking one glass of water 30 minutes before a meal. This helps to ease the overall digestion process. You can also have a cup or two of water during meals. Middle of the day Have you ever experienced the 3 pm slump? If you’ve probably reached for a cup of coffee, you need to reconsider.
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Watch Out for These 5 Severe Signs of Migraine

Watch Out for These 5 Severe Signs of Migraine

Migraine is a condition that can develop in anyone, however, women are three times more likely to get it. Some may have one or two episodes a year, while others could experience more than 10 episodes a month. The symptoms and severity of an episode may vary from one person to another. Migraine usually develops as a headache, beginning on one side and spreading to the entire head or shifting from one side to another. Severe signs to recognize Moderate to severe headache, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite and abdominal pain, and feeling too warm or cold are also common symptoms of a migraine. These symptoms are not alarming and get better with proper treatment and rest. However, there are some signs of headaches and migraines that one should not ignore. Migraine with aura As migraine is a neurological disease, one may experience symptoms like aura, where they see halos, flashing lights, zig-zags, and blank spots. Some may even experience a temporary loss of vision. Aura symptoms typically begin within one hour of the onset of the migraine. These symptoms usually last between thirty minutes to one hour. Some may experience confusion, weakness, or paralysis. Though aura symptoms alone are not dangerous, they could indicate other conditions like stroke. One should consult a doctor or a neurologist for a thorough examination and diagnosis if they observe this symptom. Headache that does not respond to treatment If one has a persistent headache lasting more than two or three days, and if it does not respond to any treatment, it is important to consult a doctor. A migraine typically lasts between four hours to three days. But, if one does not see any improvement in the symptoms, their headache switches from one side to another, or they experience a ringing sensation in the ears, they should seek immediate help.
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Prostate Cancer – Warning Signs and Management

Prostate Cancer – Warning Signs and Management

The second most common cancer in men is prostate cancer. It impacts the prostate gland, which secretes seminal fluid. Prostate cancer is usually localized and does not migrate. Early cancer detection results in less harm and more successful treatment of cancer. Although there are treatment alternatives, there are active clinical trials for more advanced treatments for prostate cancer. Read on to learn more about the warning signs and foods to eat and avoid for prostate cancer. 5 early warning signs of prostate cancer Frequent urge to urinate The prostate tumor exerts pressure on the urethra and the bladder, leading to a person getting an urge to urinate, especially at night.  Weak flow of urine Weak urine flow need not always be a sign of prostate cancer as one experiences trouble urinating as one ages. However, if one experiences a weak flow of urine or has no control over starting and stopping it, it is advisable to consult a doctor.  Numbness or pain As cancer advances, one might experience unexplainable pain in the hips, chest, or lower back. Some men may also experience numbness in the legs. Burning or painful urination Burning or experiencing pain while urinating is called dysuria. It is a common symptom of UTIs. However, it may also be a symptom of prostate cancer. It is better to get it checked. Blood in the urine Hematuria is a symptom of prostate cancer but can also be a symptom of health issues like UTIs. It always helps to get it checked. Meal plan for prostate cancer A well-balanced meal plan with ample fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates from whole grains, and healthy proteins can prevent prostate cancer and improve one’s overall health. Additionally, even when diagnosed with prostate cancer, paying attention to what is on one’s plate can go a long way in aiding your treatment.  5 foods to manage prostate cancer Broccoli Broccoli contains complex compounds that can protect a person from cancer.
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12 Foods That Help Improve Blood Circulation

12 Foods That Help Improve Blood Circulation

The human circulatory system has three major components the heart, blood, and blood vessels. Together they supply blood, nutrients, and hormones to different organs and parts of the body. Another important function of the circulatory system is to carry carbon dioxide and other waste products to flush them out of the body. Any disruption in this process can result in an inadequate supply of blood and nutrients and incomplete disposal of waste. Impact of meals and lifestyle The heart, veins, arteries, and vessels function like a mechanical unit, where a problem in one component can affect the entire process. Clogging in the veins or arteries can lead to heart failure or circulatory system dysfunction. Regular intake of certain foods can form plaque in the arteries and make them thick. This prevents the smooth flow of blood and may lead to hypertension and other complications. An unhealthy meal plan can contribute to the hardening, clotting, clogging, and tearing of blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.  Best nutrient sources The ideal foods to improve blood count should be low in cholesterol and saturated fats. The meal plan should include alternatives such as trimmed meat and seafood, safe fats like mono or polyunsaturated fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. Further, it should have more fruits and vegetables, fiber, and moderate quantities of milk and dairy products. Here are some of the best kinds of foods that help improve blood circulation: Foods with omega-3 fatty acids:  Omega-3 fatty acids are key nutrients for improving blood circulation. One can find them in plant-based foods and seafood. Doctors recommend omega-3-rich foods as they can reduce the levels of triglycerides, a type of fat. The build-up of these fats in the artery walls can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and atrial fibrillation.
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5 Conditions That Can Cause Osteoporosis

5 Conditions That Can Cause Osteoporosis

An adult has 206 bones compared to an infant’s 306; as one grows, the bone fuses, and the bone tissues constantly break down and rebuild. The length of bones stops growing between the ages of 16 and 18, but bone density continues growing until age 35. Individuals begin to lose bone tissue between the ages of 35 and 40, but this can be hastened by conditions like osteoporosis, which leads to drastic bone loss. What is osteoporosis? Bones have a thick outer shell and an inner mesh resembling a honeycomb. The mesh contains proteins and minerals like collagen and calcium. Our body needs minerals like phosphorus and magnesium to build new bones regularly. As we age, if our body loses more bones than it can produce, it cumulatively results in bone loss. This condition is called osteoporosis, which develops and progresses slowly over many years. The bone’s outer shell and honeycomb-like mesh gradually become thinner when osteoporosis happens. The bone becomes weak, putting the person at a high risk of bone pain and fractures. Osteoporosis does not have any specific symptoms. Most men and women may not know they have had osteoporosis until the bone pain and stiffness become too intense or if they suffer a sudden fracture. Fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist are the most common impact of osteoporosis. Weak bones can break at the slightest movement and cause fractures when the person falls. In severe cases of osteoporosis, even a sneeze or a cough can cause a fracture. Five diseases that cause osteoporosis Whatever the cause, bone loss can only be delayed but not reversed. Genetic, autoimmune, hormonal, liver and allergic, psychiatric, and neurological disorders can cause osteoporosis. Five such diseases are: Cystic fibrosis Cystic fibrosis is an inherited and life-threatening disease that causes thick sticky mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and internal organs.
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Key Things to Know About Thyroid Cancer

Key Things to Know About Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that affects the thyroid, a gland located at the neck base that produces hormones that regulate metabolism. While there are several types of thyroid cancer, including papillary and follicular, one of the rarest and most aggressive types is metastatic squamous neck (MSK) thyroid cancer. MSK thyroid cancer can be challenging to diagnose and treat, so one must be aware of the subtle signs of this cancer type. This article will examine what MSK thyroid cancer is, the symptoms you should be mindful of, how it’s diagnosed, and the available treatment options. We will also discuss how to manage the side effects of treatments, some coping strategies for those with MSK thyroid cancer, prevention methods, and prognosis for the disease. Introduction to MSK Thyroid Cancer MSK thyroid cancer is a rare and aggressive type of thyroid cancer that is believed to originate from the squamous cells in the neck, which are thin and flat cells that line the surface of the throat. MSK thyroid cancer spreads quickly to the lymph nodes in the neck and other body parts, such as the lungs and bones. This cancer is more likely in adults, particularly those over 40. Symptoms of MSK Thyroid Cancer One of the biggest challenges with MSK thyroid cancer is that it can be difficult to detect in its early stages. However, symptoms of MSK thyroid cancer are typically very subtle and can even be mistaken for other conditions. Some of the most common symptoms of MSK thyroid cancer include the following: – Swelling or a lump in the neck – Pain in the neck or throat – Difficulty swallowing – Difficulty breathing – A hoarse or raspy voice – Coughing – Unexplained weight loss – Fatigue If you experience these symptoms, speaking immediately to your healthcare expert is essential.
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12 Healthy Foods That Are Packed With Potassium

12 Healthy Foods That Are Packed With Potassium

Potassium is a key mineral integral to safeguarding one’s general health. This mineral helps maintain normal levels of fluid in one’s cells. Besides that, potassium helps regularize one’s heart rate and aids in nerve functioning. Not eating potassium-rich foods can lead to constipation, fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling or numbing, and even irregular heartbeat. These are reasons to worry, so it helps to be aware of healthy potassium-rich foods to include in one’s meal.  Why do we need potassium? The body needs potassium for optimal health but cannot produce the nutrient on its own. Potassium is also essential as an electrolyte since it bears an eclectic charge that activates different cells and plays a pivotal role in nerve functioning. Potassium enables the contraction of muscles and helps maintain normal blood pressure.  Potassium is an unsung nutrient, and its deficiency can be problematic. Though excess potassium levels cause diseases like hyperkalemia, its deficiency is also dangerous. Therefore, it is important to consult a health expert about the amount of potassium that suits you. If you are susceptible to kidney conditions, the doctor might ask you to have less of this mineral. However, according to experts, the daily advised potassium intake amount for adult women is 2,320 mg, and for adult men, it is 3,016 mg.  Healthy potassium-rich food items Potassium is available naturally in many food items and can be taken as a supplement. One can incorporate the potassium-rich foods listed below into one’s daily meal plan to improve general health.  Watermelon Watermelon is a delicious food that has potassium in abundance. It is also known for its exceptional water content, but this summer fruit also contains protein, fiber, fat, vitamins A and C, magnesium, and potassium. A single wedge (about 286 grams) of watermelon contains 7% of the recommended potassium value.
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6 Helpful Tips for a Healthy Sleep Cycle

6 Helpful Tips for a Healthy Sleep Cycle

A good night’s sleep is one of the critical factors to a high quality of life. Healthy sleep habits indicate the individual’s mental and physical well-being. However, in this day and age, several factors hinder sleep despite an efficient lifestyle. Heartburn can significantly impede a healthy sleep cycle, but there are ways to prevent and manage it. This article will discuss ways to avoid heartburn and get a better night’s sleep. What is heartburn, and how does it impact sleep? Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by acid reflux and can make it challenging to get a comfortable and sound sleep. Fortunately, there are quite a few strategies a person can use to prevent and manage heartburn and get a healthy and restful sleep during the night. Heartburn is a common condition caused by the regurgitation of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation in the chest or throat. This burning sensation can become more uncomfortable when lying down, making it difficult to get comfortable and stay asleep. Additionally, heartburn can cause difficulty breathing, resulting in frequent waking throughout the night and poor overall sleep quality. Therefore, it is imperative to avoid foods that cause heartburn at night. Studies suggest that food breaks down more efficiently when one eats dinner early in the evening. People suffering from frequent heartburns must avoid oily, tomato-based, carbonated beverages and citric and spicy foods. More on the list of foods to be avoided at night would be fast foods, pizza, fried foods, cheese, and fatty meats like bacon and sausages.  6 tips for a healthy sleep cycle Establishing a regular sleep schedule Establishing a regular sleep schedule is vital in preventing and managing heartburn. Having a consistent bedtime and wake time helps regulate one’s body’s internal clock, making falling and staying asleep easier.
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