8 foods to avoid with multiple myeloma

8 foods to avoid with multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma or white blood cell cancer. The primary function of plasma cells is to develop antibodies to help fight infections. However, in the case of MM, healthy cells convert to abnormal ones, causing the production of antibodies called M proteins and indicating MM’s onset. A healthy lifestyle and curated meal plan are essential while undergoing treatment. Here’s a list of some foods patients with multiple myeloma must avoid: Raw meat Raw meat contains harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which can cause food poisoning and weaken the immune system. Such foods can worsen MM symptoms, as patients with this condition already suffer from low immunity. Unpasteurized milk Like raw meat, unpasteurized or raw milk also contains harmful bacteria like Campylobacter, E. Coli, Listeria, and Brucella. In addition, it can pose serious health risks to all individuals, particularly those already suffering from debilitating health conditions like MM. Deep-fried foods Fried foods contain high levels of trans and saturated fats, increasing one’s risk for lifestyle diseases like cholesterol and cardiovascular conditions. Since individuals with MM do not have healthy antibodies, they are more susceptible to such health risks than others. Thus, it is advisable for patients with MM to avoid deep-fried foods, replacing them with sauteed, steamed, or boiled alternatives.
Read More
8 warning signs that indicate excess sugar intake

8 warning signs that indicate excess sugar intake

Sugar is a soluble carbohydrate that is often added to most of our foods. This is what makes delicacies like cookies, chocolates, brownies, and cakes delicious. However, eating too many foods rich in sugars can deteriorate your overall health. The compound may cause health conditions and complications like tiredness, build-up of visceral fat, diabetes, and heart disease. So, here are eight signs of excess sugar intake to look out for. Feelings of irritability Studies indicate that eating foods with too much sugar may lead to irritability, stress, and moodiness. Sugar-rich foods contain less protein and fats which may lead to spikes in blood sugar levels. In turn, the body will rush to process the compounds and cause the energy levels to crash. Foods don’t taste sweet anymore Sometimes you may feel that the sugar-laden foods you consume are not as sweet as it once was. It may be an indication that you are consuming too much sugar. You may also find yourself less satisfied when you consume foods with low sugar content. Excess visceral fat Sugar is also known to affect leptin, a hormone that signals the brain when you have enough to eat. And processed snacks are rich in sugar but low in protein, healthy fats, and fibers.
Read More
5 foods to avoid to reduce migraine headaches

5 foods to avoid to reduce migraine headaches

Migraine headaches are physically and emotionally taxing. While a person can withstand a single migraine headache with resilience, frequent migrainous episodes can break even those with the strongest spirits. Often, the foods a person eats act as triggers causing such headaches. Therefore, migraine experiencers need to cut out certain foods from their daily meals to keep painful headaches at bay for longer. Here are the 5 foods to avoid for people with migraine: Coffee Caffeine is a major trigger of migraines. One may find it challenging to steer clear of caffeine, as it is found in several foods such as tea, coffee, and chocolate. Coffee contains massive amounts of caffeine. Therefore, one must avoid consuming excessive amounts of coffee during the day. Caffeine is not entirely bad for people living with migraines. However, such people need to consume coffee in moderation. Instead of coffee, one can consider consuming black or green tea, which contains relatively smaller amounts of caffeine. Teriyaki Fermented soy foods also rank highly on any list of foods to avoid for migraine experiencers. Teriyaki, like miso, soy sauce, or tempeh, is a fermented soy product. This means that teriyaki has large amounts of tyramine, which commonly triggers migraine headaches not long after consumption.
Read More
Understanding the essentials about menopause

Understanding the essentials about menopause

Menopause is a stage at which the woman stops going through menstrual cycles. It is only considered menopause if you have not had your period for at least 12 months. In the US, the average age for it to occur is 51, but it can start as early as your 40s. It is a biological process that occurs naturally but, due to certain symptoms it causes, it can lead to disruptions in your daily schedule and life. Stages of menopause Menopause has three different stages, as given below. Perimenopause Before the actual menopause starts, the women’s body goes into the process of shifting from natural menstruation and ovulation cycle to permanent infertility. This stage is known as perimenopause. It generally starts in your 40s, but some women may experience it in their 30s too. The symptoms include irregular periods, sleep problems, and hot flashes. Menopause If you have not had your period in one year, then the perimenopause is over, and the actual menopause stage begins. You cannot get pregnant once you enter this stage. Postmenopause The years that follow are the postmenopause stage. The physical and emotional symptoms of menopause start to subside in most cases. You start to regain your energy levels and feel more emotionally stable.
Read More
5 foods to avoid when dealing with DVT

5 foods to avoid when dealing with DVT

Deep vein thrombosis or DVT develops when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body. These blood clots are usually observed in the legs and can cause leg swelling and pain. However, in rare cases, no symptoms or signs can be seen. A few health conditions that affect clotting may also increase the risk of developing the condition. Food can play a role in managing DVT. Signs In most cases, a DVT develops in the arms or legs, and up to 30% of people with the condition do not experience any symptoms. However, in some cases, people may experience mild symptoms that may not raise concerns. So, one should look for signs like swelling in the arm or leg, larger-than-normal veins near the surface, and pain or tenderness in the arms or legs. Other common signs are red or discolored skin, abdominal or flank pain, warm sensation in the affected areas, and severe headache. Foods to avoid In most cases, healthcare professionals may suggest a few lifestyle modifications, including include avoiding a few foods, to better manage DVT and even prevent it. White bread White bread and other refined foods often contain high amounts of starch.
Read More
10 warning signs of high cholesterol to look out for

10 warning signs of high cholesterol to look out for

High cholesterol is a common condition that can increase your heart disease and stroke risk. It occurs when excessive cholesterol is in your blood, which can lead to buildup in your arteries. This can narrow your arteries and restrict blood flow to your organs, leading to serious health problems. This article will discuss the early signs of high cholesterol and let you take steps to prevent and manage this condition. Chest pain Chest pain is among the most common early signs of high cholesterol, often accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or lightheadedness. This occurs when cholesterol buildup in the arteries reduces blood flow to the heart, causing chest pain or discomfort. Chest pain can also be described as pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest. Numbness or tingling sensation High cholesterol can also cause a numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet. The high cholesterol content in the arteries constricts the blood supply, resulting in nerve damage. A similar sensation is often felt by a burning or prickling feeling. Headaches Headaches can be a sign of high cholesterol, particularly if they are severe or frequent and, most of the time, lead to dizziness or lightheadedness. So, frequent headache episodes because of high cholesterol might call for a doctor’s intervention.
Read More
6 adverse effects of implants on teeth

6 adverse effects of implants on teeth

Dental implants have revolutionized modern dentistry by providing a viable solution for individuals with missing teeth. They provide several advantages, including better functionality and aesthetics. However, while dental implants are generally considered a safe and effective treatment, they are not without their side effects, especially when not properly cared for or when certain complications arise. Here are some of the adverse effects of dental implants on teeth and the importance of vigilant maintenance. Peri-implantitis Peri-implantitis is a common complication associated with dental implants that can negatively impact surrounding teeth. It is similar to periodontitis, a gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Peri-implantitis occurs when the tissues surrounding the implant become inflamed and infected. This condition can result in bone loss around the implant, ultimately compromising its stability. The adverse effects of peri-implantitis extend beyond the implant itself, as the infection can spread to nearby natural teeth. This can lead to tooth mobility, increased sensitivity, and eventually tooth loss. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with dental implants to maintain excellent oral hygiene and undergo regular check-ups to detect peri-implantitis in its early stages. Implant failure Implant failure is a significant concern for those who opt for dental implants.
Read More
9 foods that may worsen halitosis

9 foods that may worsen halitosis

Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a condition that can be embarrassing and socially uncomfortable. Various factors can cause it; one significant contributor is the foods one consumes. Many foods and beverages contain compounds released upon chewing and broken down by saliva. This article explores the foods that can worsen halitosis and the reasons behind their impact on breath odor, where the severity of bad breath varies accordingly. Onions and garlic Onions and garlic, from the allium family of vegetables, are notorious for causing bad breath. These root veggies contain sulfur compounds that get absorbed into the bloodstream and are exhaled through the lungs. These potent compounds create an unpleasant odor that can linger for hours or even days after consumption. Dairy products Many daily use dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can lead to bad breath for some people. This happens due to a food and beverage allergy called lactose intolerance that can cause an increase in bacteria in the mouth, producing foul-smelling compounds. Spicy foods Spicy foods, such as peppers and curry, can worsen bad breath. Spice stimulates gastric acid production, leading to acid reflux, regurgitating the stomach’s contents up the esophagus due to a faulty sphincter.
Read More
Hemophilia – 5 foods to avoid

Hemophilia – 5 foods to avoid

Hemophilia is a rare but severe bleeding disorder that affects individuals’ ability to clot blood properly. Managing hemophilia requires meticulous attention to various aspects of daily life, including food choices. Some foods can be problematic for hemophilia patients, as they can exacerbate the condition and increase discomfort. Hence, patients must be vigilant about their food choices. This article sheds light on the foods that can worsen hemophilia: 1. Bread Bread is a staple across various households and is considered a breakfast favorite. However, it can pose a risk to hemophilia patients due to its vitamin K content. Vitamin K plays a pivotal role in blood clotting, which is already impaired in individuals with hemophilia. High levels of vitamin K can promote clotting, potentially exacerbating bleeding issues in these patients. While it’s not necessary to eliminate bread entirely, it is essential to moderate its consumption. Hence, one can consider whole-grain options to enjoy other nutritional benefits. 2. Cheese Cheese, especially aged varieties, is another food that hemophilia patients should consume in moderation. Similar to bread, cheese contains significant amounts of vitamin K, which can interfere with clotting. Hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and gouda typically contain more vitamin K than softer varieties.
Read More
9 warning signs of liver cancer

9 warning signs of liver cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma, is a severe and potentially life-threatening ailment that can be hard to spot early on. The liver helps filter toxins from the body and supports digestion. These functions can get compromised when diagnosed with cancer. Timely detection of liver cancer is crucial for management. This post explores the signs and symptoms of the condition. Those who experience these indicators should consult a healthcare provider without delay. Abdominal pain and discomfort Persistent abdominal pain and discomfort are common symptoms of liver cancer. Patients often describe a dull ache or a feeling of fullness in the upper right side of the abdomen. This discomfort can result from the tumor pressing against surrounding organs or causing inflammation in the liver. Jaundice Jaundice, characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, is a visible sign of liver cancer. Liver tumors can obstruct the bile ducts, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made during the breakdown of red blood cells, and when it accumulates, it causes the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Fatigue and weakness Liver cancer can cause fatigue and weakness that do not go away even with rest.
Read More