Diabetic eye disease, also called diabetic retinopathy, is an eye disorder that mainly occurs when blood vessels in the eyes get damaged due to diabetes. The problem can cause vision loss in both type 1 and type 2 patients in cases where blood sugar is not managed correctly. While medicines are the best diabetic eye treatment, patients can also adopt the following nutrition plan and lifestyle changes to manage the disease better and speed up recovery. Foods to eat The following are two healthy foods to eat during diabetic eye treatment: Leafy greens Leafy greens are the complete package when it comes to nutrition. Popular options like spinach, collards, turnip, and kale contain vitamin C, essential nutrients, and eye-healthy minerals. Moreover, they have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reverse the effects of cellular degeneration caused by conditions like diabetes. Multiple studies show that leafy greens are beneficial in promoting eye health. Eggs Eggs are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provide various health benefits when eaten regularly. They can help improve the body’s sensitivity to inflammation and maintain better cholesterol levels to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications like diabetic eye disease. Eggs are beneficial for overall eye health as well.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive and chronic inflammatory condition that leads to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is considered an autoimmune disease that can cause loss of joint functions and deformities. While no food can treat this condition, it may be a smart move to avoid foods that worsen its symptoms. Read on to know which foods to avoid if you have RA and medical treatment options for RA. Sugar Beverages and drinks that contain high levels of sugar are known to induce and worsen joint pain. The American Heart Association recommends 6 teaspoons per day for women and 9 teaspoons for men. Try to limit or avoid eating candy, soda, ice cream, and other foods that are full of unhealthy amounts of sugar. Replace sweetened drinks with an unsweetened version by adding organic honey or lemon. Salt Salt is one of the essential nutrients for humans. However, when consumed in excess, it can trigger a variety of serious health issues, including joint pain. Eating too much salt increases not only the risk of RA but also kidney problems. Substitute salt in your food with other herbs and spices like ground pepper, oregano, minced garlic, onion powder, cumin, or any other seasoning to enhance the taste.

There are no specific guidelines related to food that can help cure asthma. However, there are changes that can be made to eating patterns and preferences that can help better manage the condition. Healthy food choices can help lower the frequency of asthma flare-ups. Well-balanced meals are, of course, a helping hand in this journey. But at the same time, it is equally important to be aware of foods that need to be avoided. Let’s have a look at some foods that trigger asthma and its symptoms. Soy The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology has listed soy along with other common foods that cause intolerance or result in allergic reactions. If one has a known allergy to soy, it can also lead to a flare-up in asthma symptoms. It is, therefore, best to avoid soy. Dried fruits Dried fruits are packed with nutrients that help nourish the body. But, at the same time, they are also concentrated sources of sulfites. It is useful in the preservation of dried fruit but can prove to be an aggravator of symptoms for people with asthma. Beans Beans are often associated with foods that cause gastric discomfort and result in acid reflux, gas, and/or bloating.

Cancer is a disease in which the body cells experience changes in their genetic structure and start mutating. The cells start growing rapidly and uncontrollably, consequently forming a tumor. These tumors usually rely on nutrients from the food we eat. In addition, there are specific foods that accelerate cancer growth. So, it is necessary to steer clear of such foods that may increase the risk of cancer. Let’s have a look at the food list. Sugar It is one of the leading triggers of cancer. Malignant or cancer cells often rely on glucose present in sugar for their prolific growth. As a result, any food with a very high glycemic index can increase the risk of cancer. Avoid foods such as aerated drinks, candies, cakes, cookies, and desserts as they have a high amount of refined sugar that can increase cancer risk. Processed meats Processed meats such as hot dogs, pepperoni, ham, beef jerky, corned beef, pastrami, and salami contain a high amount of chemical preservatives. These preservatives help increase the shelf life and enhance the taste of the meat. However, the sodium nitrate present in the preservatives increases the risk of suffering from cancer. So, it is advised to switch to uncured meat products, preferably from grass-fed sources.

There are many types of cancers. Researchers are still trying to find the exact causes behind this condition. However, a number of studies have indicated that a person’s food choices can increase or decrease their risk of developing cancer. Fortunately, certain foods are known to be full of nutrients that can lower the chances of cancer in most people. Below is a list of foods that can reduce the risk of cancer. Garlic Garlic contains an active compound known as allicin, which is known to have anti-cancer properties. One study indicated that people who ate allicin-containing vegetables had a lower risk of stomach cancer. Try to include two to five grams (or one clove) of garlic in your meals daily to reduce cancer risk. Broccoli Broccoli contains sulforaphane. This is a plant compound that may have strong anti-cancer properties. Some studies also show that consuming broccoli can lower the risk of certain cancers such as colorectal. Berries These tiny fruits are loaded with antioxidants that can prevent various types of cancer, including colorectal and esophageal. Some excellent berries to eat include goji berries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries. Turmeric This yellow spice contains an active ingredient called curcumin. Curcumin may inhibit some kinds of cancer cells and even slow the spread of cancer or shrink tumors.

Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory condition and type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. Though no specific food has been found to cure the disease, studies suggest that eating anti-inflammatory foods can decrease inflammation, making living with the disease easier. Here is a list of the best anti-inflammatory foods for ankylosing spondylitis and a few medications, including RINVOQ®. But before that, you need to know the initial signs and symptoms of the disease. Early signs and symptoms Pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning or after rest, are among the most common early signs of ankylosing spondylitis. Other signs and symptoms can include neck pain, fatigue, ligament and tendon pain, night sweats, mild fever, and appetite loss. Best foods for ankylosing spondylitis Load up on these foods to manage the disease. Omega-3-rich foods Omega-3s are healthy fats that can help fight inflammation, including those associated with ankylosing spondylitis. The best sources of omega-3s are salmon, sardines, tuna, walnuts, flax seeds, and chia seeds. Berries Berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, are a storehouse of powerful antioxidants, especially anthocyanins. These compounds can lower inflammation and fight free radical damage in the body, potentially improving ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease in which the initially flexible, round red blood cells become crescent moon- or sickle-shaped. As a result, blood flow through small vessels slows down or stops, leading to various symptoms. The only cure for sickle cell anemia is a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. However, recent studies have shown that certain herbs and their blend can also provide relief. Read on to learn more about the herbal management of sickle cell anemia. Niprisan herbal extract formula Nigeria has the highest number of sickle cell patients in the world. To help its citizens fight the disease, the Nigerian government’s National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) developed a herbal formula called Niprisan that has shown promising results. It is made with extracts from four different plants: Piper guineense seed: Also called the West African pepper or Guinea pepper Pterocarpus osum stem: An African timber Eugenia caryophyllus: Also called cloves Sorghum bicolor: Also known as sorghum, great millet, durra, jowari/jowar, or milo The main active compounds of these herbs are piperine, chavicine, capsaicin, and cubebin. The medicine is unlikely to cause significant side effects. Fagara zanthoxyloides Herbal management of sickle cell anemia involves a few other herbs as well, which have shown promising results.

Sickle cell disease, also known as sickle cell anemia, is a genetic disorder that modifies regular red blood cells into a sickle or crescent shape. The disease is more common in people with a deficiency in vitamin D and poor appetite. The condition may also lead to reduced growth and development in children. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how nutrition can help support sickle cell patients. Balance and increase nutrients When it comes to sickle cell disease, asymptomatic patients tend to show energy levels below the set threshold. This number falls to about half when illness sets in or when the person is hospitalized. Therefore, one should increase the food they eat if they wish to tackle the condition’s symptoms. Some of these foods include the following: Whole grains, rice, and cereals, which are high in vitamin B, magnesium, folate, and selenium Milk, cheese, and yogurt that are loaded with vitamin D and calcium Certain vegetable oils that are rich in vitamin E and fatty acids Meats, nuts, seeds, and beans are good sources of protein, zinc, and iron Green leafy vegetables and fruits, as these foods carry high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and even fiber Calorie intake A high-calorie intake also supports those with sickle cell disease.

An unhealthy lifestyle coupled with the amount of stress we are burdened with to achieve the “perfect life” has left us combating various serious health issues. Some of these ailments are hereditary, whereas, some of them are self-created. And, then there are those ailments that fall under both these categories. Diabetes is one such ailment that is known to have its roots firmly planted in our genes and can be a result of our reckless lifestyle as well. However, if normal blood sugar levels are maintained, people can easily coexist with diabetes and lead a normal life. Whichever treatment a person opts for controlling their diabetes, it involves maintaining normal blood sugar levels. A rise in the blood sugar levels leads to a string of other problems. So, the key to living with diabetes involves taking steps to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Diabetes isn’t an ailment that can be cured completely. So, one must follow these tips to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Lose weight Obesity is the root cause of a wide-range of disease or is known to worsen an already existing condition. Excess weight makes the person resistant to insulin, and this, in turn, disrupts the normal blood sugar levels in the body.

Diabetes or high blood sugar can be effectively controlled if a proper daily diet is followed. Paying attention to food habits will not only keep a control on the blood sugar but also develop overall healthy weight. A balanced diet is often suggested by dieticians but not many understand the need for the same. If a person is suffering from diabetes, one thought tends to constantly remain in our mind and that is how to control blood sugar. Here are 10 best food items that are popular, easily available, and perfect for controlling blood sugar. Take a look! Vegetables are perfect for controlling blood sugar We all know that vegetables are an important part of everyday meals and diet plan. Including vegetables in the meal helps to keep us fit and healthy. Not only does eating vegetables healthy for a maintained body weight but also for controlling high blood sugar. It is advisable to include all kinds of vegetables in your diet but ensure to choose vegetables that are low in carbohydrates. You can try having mushrooms, tomatoes, sprouts, and onions, to name a few. Try adding more flavor to your meal by seasoning the vegetables well. Broccoli for a healthy heart Often recommended by doctors for people suffering from high blood sugar, broccoli is considered one of the best food items when one is looking to control blood sugar.