Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) describes lung diseases which include refractory asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. The disease causes increased breathlessness. Eating foods that help boost your energy if you have COPD is essential. You can still eat some comfort foods if you are losing weight, as breathing also burns more calories when you have COPD. Those who wish to watch their weight can eat energy or nutrient-packed foods. This will keep the calories in check and also help you feel good. If you get tired more often while eating or have trouble breathing, eat 4 to 6 smaller meals than 3 large meals. Additionally, you should eat enough but not completely fill your stomach so that you can relax. Breakfast is an important meal, those suffering from COPD get easily tired during the day. In this case, they can have a heavy breakfast, as it could work as an energy booster. Moreover, keep snacks which are healthy at hand, like nuts, to avoid saturated fats and unhealthy cholesterol. Oatmeal You can start your day with oatmeal which is rich in vitamin A, iron, calcium, and fiber. Having it with milk makes it more nutritious. The fiber content makes you feel fuller with fewer calories; you can also add berries instead of adding artificial sweeteners. Cheese You can add cheese to your vegetables, along with rice and potatoes, to increase the calorie count and nutrient value of any meal. The extra calcium is great as most medicines prescribed for COPD make the bones brittle. Look for a cheese that is labeled as reduced-fat or part-skim. Milk Milk provides vitamin D and calcium which keeps your bones strong. Try drinking more milk than water. Fiber You need at least 30 grams of fiber. You can go for lentil soup, split pea soup with low sodium, eat fresh vegetables, fruits, bread, whole grain cereals, brown rice, bran, and dry beans.

Depression is a medical illness wherein a person’s moods, thoughts, actions, and emotions are adversely impacted by factors such as one’s biochemistry, genetics, personality, and environmental factors. It is a treatable disorder, but the stigma surrounding it has made most people hesitate to reach out for help. Once diagnosed, the individual can opt for medication and therapy as forms of treatment. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary changes go a long way in helping manage the condition. Food plays a huge role in the way one feels about the day. It affects one’s moods, energy levels, and enthusiasm. A diet deficient in any nutrient is likely to leave one feeling weak, but a healthy, well-balanced diet can be a useful method of treatment for most diseases. There is no such diet that can relieve a person from depression. However, there are certain diet plans or types of food that can definitely help a person deal with the symptoms of depression in a better way. The overall health of a person is also improved with a healthy diet. Given below are foods that must be had, or avoided, to help boost mental health and fight depression. Molecules called free radicals are produced by the body normally, but these can damage the cells, lead to aging, as well as other problems. To be able to reduce the destructive impact of these molecules, one is advised to consume foods high in antioxidants. Sweet potato, broccoli, cantaloupe, apricots, spinach, carrots, pumpkin, peaches, and collards contain beta carotene. Examples of rich sources of vitamin C include tomatoes, blueberries, peppers, potatoes, kiwi, broccoli, strawberries, oranges, and grapefruits, while seeds and nuts, wheat germ, margarine, and vegetable oils contain vitamin E. It is recommended to choose the kind of carbs consumed wisely, as the nutrient is linked to the mood-boosting brain chemical, serotonin.

Different foods can have positive effects on our body and mind. There are foods that may help fight lung cancer and other types of cancers. However, patients who are already affected by lung cancer should be more careful with their dietary habits and food choices. Some vitamins and minerals may be beneficial for the body during the course of treatment – chemotherapy, medication, and radiation. Studies show that there are potential cancer-fighting fruits, vegetables, and food items that could make a significant difference in the health of a person. Let us now look at those specific foods that inhibit the growth of cancer cells or stop them from becoming metastatic. Foods that may help fight lung cancer Is there anything as a lung cancer diet? Technically, there isn’t anything such. However, some foods may help fight lung cancer or even prevent the disease. It is debatable. There’s no reason to fret. Multiple studies are still looking into the effect of diet on cancer cells already present in the body. The lists of foods given below discuss the nutritional value and their effects on lung cancer. If you are already affected by lung cancer and are going through chemotherapy and radiation therapy, this information might prove to be helpful. Green tea: Green tea is believed to be very effective in fighting lung cancer. Not only does it play a preventive role but it may also benefit people living with this disease. Green tea contains caffeine in very less quantity. So, if you have caffeine sensitivity, you have to look for a caffeine-free option. Pears: A recent study showed that fruits like apples and pears induced apoptosis which is programmed cell death in cancer cells. These fruits contain phloretin, a phytochemical, which may be used as an adjunct for the treatment of non-small lung cancer cells.

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for boosting immunity and maintaining a healthy weight, and are especially beneficial for the digestive system. We usually think of these as germs that cause diseases, but the body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. More than 70% of our immune cells live in the gut and are dependent on a healthy gut. Probiotics are often called “good” or “helpful” bacteria that keep the gut healthy. Probiotic foods for a healthy gut The following foods are known to help boost gut and overall health: Yogurt : It is linked to a number of health benefits and may be suitable for people with lactose intolerance. Ensure to choose yogurt that has active or live cultures. Kefir : Kefir is a fermented milk drink that is a source of probiotics and calcium. It is smoother and easier to digest. Sauerkraut : Sauerkraut is finely cut fermented cabbage that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Ensure to choose unpasteurized brands that contain live bacteria. Also, those sold in the refrigerated section will contain more probiotics than those available in cans or jars. Tempeh : Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that serves as a high-protein substitute for meat. It contains a decent amount of vitamin B12. Kimchi : Kimchi is a Korean side dish that is fermented and spicy. Made from cabbage, it is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and B2, and iron. It is generally available in the refrigerated section. Miso : Miso is a fermented soybean paste. It is rich in several important nutrients and may also help in bringing down the risk of cancer and stroke, especially in women. Kombucha : Kombucha is a fermented tea drink, mostly green or black. Generally tangy in taste, it is a good source of active bacteria.

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer to occur among men. A diet rich in fats and sugar is widely known to increase the chances of developing this cancer. However, there are certain foods that you should eat and avoid to boost prostate health. Foods to consume: Tomatoes Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant present in tomatoes. This antioxidant reduces cell damage and slows the production of cancer cells. Thus, it effectively prevents prostate cancer from developing, as it reduces the growth of tumors. Though tomatoes, in any form, are beneficial, cooked tomatoes are absorbed by the body more efficiently. One can have it in many forms like spaghetti sauce, ketchup, juice, or puree when cooking. Tomatoes are a must-have in order to avoid the risks of prostate cancer. Broccoli A healthy vegetable, broccoli contains many complex compounds. The sulforaphane phytochemical is one of the compounds that selectively kills cancer cells and leaves normal prostate cells unaffected. Broccoli adds color and a unique taste to your soups, stir-fries, and salads. Green tea Green tea has traditionally been a part of Asian diets for centuries. This is one of the reasons why men in Asian countries do not suffer from this condition as much. Green tea has many components that prevent the development of prostate cancer, making it an ideal choice to avoid the risks of prostate cancer. Start by drinking one cup per day; if you do not prefer the warmth, you can always cool it and have it as a refreshing drink. Legumes and beans Many cancer-fighting properties are found in legumes and beans to make them ideal for consumption. Legumes such as lentils, beans, and peanuts contain active compounds such as phytoestrogen that are known to suppress tumor growth. A black bean burger, hummus, or tofu can be added to your diet.

Bipolar disorder is a mental condition wherein a person experiences extreme mood swings. A person’s feelings may go from extremely good to really low in life. Due to the extreme range of symptoms, it often gets tough to diagnose bipolar disorder. There is no cure for it, but the symptoms can be controlled with medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes. Diet is a major contributing factor to this deadly mental disorder. Certain foods can affect your mood majorly while others can have calming effects. Here are some foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder. One should remember that it is vital to take a holistic approach and focus on diet as well as other forms of medication and treatment. Some foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder include: Grapefruit – It has been seen in many cases that some bipolar medicines, particularly anticonvulsants, do not interact appropriately with grapefruit and grapefruit juice. Thus, it is one of the foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder. Caffeine – Caffeine in any form is known to irritate people and make them restless. It could also cause sleeplessness and nervousness. It is also known to suppress hunger. Thus, caffeine intake should be minimized, and the person should be slowly weaned off it. If you suddenly eliminate it from the diet, it could alleviate symptoms, so do it gradually. Any kind of addiction or dependency is damaging in this condition. Thus, it is most certainly one of the foods to avoid if you have bipolar disorder. High-fat foods – Any food with a lot of fat content in it will take time to digest and can add to the lethargy levels already prevalent in bipolar patients. Also, fatty foods make it tough for bipolar medications to get absorbed in the body, thereby inhibiting their benefit.

As much as one would love to pamper their furry friends with treats and all the love in the world, it is essential to not spoil them. Treats can be great to break the monotony of a pet cat’s regular diet and can serve as a reward for good behavior or tricks learned. But how does one understand how many treats to give? Or if the treats are good for their cats? It is essential to pay special attention to the ingredients in the treats before selecting new brands. Consult a vet if unsure of anything and also double-check to understand the possibility of allergies and side-effects. Here are some of the very effective tips to treat cats without spoiling them, which every owner should learn for the better. Break the habit Just like humans, even cats can develop a habit of fancy treats. This results in their unwillingness to have regular food and become more dependant on artificial treats. Thus, owners should strategically plan to treat their cats only twice or thrice in a week. This helps in breaking the monotony and also does not let them develop a habit in the long run. Reward them with treats One of the best tips to treat cats without spoiling them is to reward them when they are obedient. Rewarding cats with fancy treats, whether it is homemade or packaged, helps them understand and differentiate between the good and the bad as well. For example, owners should treat the cats whenever they avoid scratching or chewing shoes or sofas or do not eat from other’s plates, etc. Learn when not to treat Pet owners should understand when not to treat their cats. The love for their beloved pets is completely understandable, but not at the cost of their disobedience. One should never treat the cats every time they sit to have their meals or snacks.

A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet can not only help fight cancer and also help prevent the risk of it. Cervical cancer is one of the deadliest cancer that women face today. It often originates in the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, is one of the main reasons for this disease. When the body is exposed to HPV, most often, it is able to fight against it, but at times, the virus survives for years and becomes one of the leading causes of cervical cancer. One can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer through screening tests and a vaccine. Diet can also play a significant role in fighting against this life-altering disease. Read on to know about some of the best superfoods for fighting cervical cancer. Research shows that regular consumption of certain foods, most notably, fruits and vegetables, can help offer protection against cervical cancer. It is so because this cancer is caused by an infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and a diet rich in antioxidants, carotenoids, flavonoids, and folate can help fight this off effectively. Many superfoods, such as the ones listed below, contain these ingredients that can be beneficial for fighting cervical cancer. Carrots This is not only good for the eyes but also for diseases like cancer as it has both beta-carotene and carotenoids—natural compounds that are highly effective at inhibiting the development of cancer. The best part is that one can eat them in any form. Have them raw in salads or blanch them whole—this vegetable is versatile! Green tea It is a popular alternative drink instead of regular tea and is known to have many health benefits. It is considered as one of the popular superfoods that can help fight cervical cancer due to its antioxidant properties.

A soft waxy substance found among the fats in the bloodstream is known as cholesterol. The main function of cholesterol is to form some hormones, cell membranes, while it is also necessary for some other functions as well. If the cholesterol starts getting deposited in the arteries in the form of plaque it can cause severe health issues like heart attack and blockage in the arteries. Maintaining an unhealthy lifestyle, genetics, smoking, and a lack of physical activity are some causes of rise in bad cholesterol levels. There are two types of cholesterol which are found in a combination of fats and proteins. High density lipoproteins (HDL) or good cholesterol Low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol One can control the build-up of bad cholesterol by cutting down on foods which cause a rise in bad cholesterol levels and maintain good cholesterol levels by adding foods and snacks which help in lowering cholesterol levels. Dry fruits: Dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are healthy snacks which help in lowering cholesterol levels as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamin E, and unsaturated fats. Consuming a handful of nuts helps in lowering cholesterol levels. Avocados: Avocados are rich in fiber and unsaturated fats which help in lowering cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and keep the heart healthy. The unsaturated fats destroy the bad cholesterol thus lowering cholesterol levels. Dark chocolate: A heart-healthy snack which helps in lowering cholesterol levels, dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids contain antioxidant properties which help in lowering the build-up of bad cholesterol and helps in preventing heart diseases. Apples: Rich in pectin fiber, apples are a great snack for lowering cholesterol levels. They also contain antioxidant properties which help in lowering LDL or bad cholesterol levels. The bioactive compounds present in apples also help in preventing heart diseases.

Colitis is a chronic disorder that exists as inflammation and sores in the inner lining of the large intestine or the colon and inflammation of the rectum. Certain foods tend to aggravate the conditions associated with colitis, such as fatigue, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and increased urge to go for bowel movement. It is essential to eat foods that help to reduce flares and get essential nutrients also. Again, there are foods that should be avoided as they can act as a trigger. Here’s a comprehensive list of foods to avoid for colitis patients: Alcohol: Some people are intolerant to alcohol. It can trigger diarrhea as it can stimulate the intestines. Alcohol is a top food to avoid for colitis patients. Caffeine: Caffeine consumption often leads to frequent visits to the bathroom. Found in beverages such as coffee, tea, some carbonated drinks, and even chocolates, it is known to worsen the symptoms of colitis. Caffeine should be avoided by colitis patients. Carbonated drinks: Drinks such as beer and soda can irritate and trigger the digestive tract. They also contain sugar and caffeine. Dairy products: Dairy products should be avoided especially if you’re lactose intolerant. They tend to trigger colitis symptoms in some people but not everyone. Dried beans, peas, and legumes: These food items can increase bowel movement and can cause gas and abdominal cramps as they have high fiber content. Dried fruits: Fibrous foods that can stimulate bowel movement and trigger colitis symptoms should be avoided. Foods that contain sulfur or sulfate: These types of foods include milk, eggs, cruciferous vegetables, red meat, prunes, wheat pasta, and few others. They lead to increased gas production. Foods high in fiber: Similar to dried beans and legumes, they also cause abdominal cramping, gas and increased abdominal cramping. Meat: Meats, particularly red meat, may not be absorbed properly causing the symptoms to worsen during a flare-up.