Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) refers to a problem that restricts the flow of air, leading to breathing problems. COPD is caused mainly due to smoking. The other causes of COPD include inhalation of gases, passive smoking, or exposure to pollution. COPD can be classified into three types. The common signs shown by people suffering from COPD are frequent lung infections, cough, and shortness of breath. Although COPD is not curable, it is preventable. Quitting the habit of smoking is the best way one can get relief of COPD. Other options include maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating some energy-boosting foods that help lower the symptoms of COPD. Some energy-boosting foods which should be included for people suffering from COPD include: Whole grains Whole grains like millet, quinoa, and barley are a great source of energy-boosting foods for people with COPD. These grains are rich in vitamins, fiber, protein, and carbohydrates. Moreover, they do not have a high-calorie count. The carbohydrates present in whole grains help boost energy as they do not contain refined carbohydrates; these also provide a filling meal . Consuming whole grain foods help improve the digestion process and maintain a healthy weight. Fresh fruits and vegetables A healthy diet should include a good combination of fresh fruits and vegetables as it provides a lot of nutritional value. It is necessary to include fresh fruits and vegetables, especially if you have COPD, as it will help improve the symptoms. These are high fiber foods that possess antioxidant properties and help boost energy levels. Nuts Full of healthy proteins and unsaturated fats, nuts are perfect to boost energy for those suffering from COPD. Rich in calories, an intake of a handful of nuts helps to prevent COPD-related weight loss issues. Nuts are also rich in fiber and are a great source of vitamin E.

Gastritis is a stomach disorder wherein the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed. This can occur due to certain foods or even bacterial infections. Gastritis can be avoided by avoiding certain foods as they help in dealing with symptoms effectively. On consulting with a doctor, one will be able to know the foods that should be consumed and avoided if suffering from gastritis. In the following, some of the foods that should be eaten and avoided have been listed. Foods to eat Food that can help kill the bacteria that cause gastritis and reduce inflammation should be consumed. Some of the choices have been listed below: Broccoli Broccoli is rich in a compound known as sulforaphane. Studies have shown that sulforaphane can kill the H.pylori bacteria that cause gastritis. Probiotics Probiotics found in yogurt, sourdough bread, and kefir can be very good for the stomach. It can strengthen the digestive process and, thus, help prevent gastritis. Fiber Foods that are rich in fiber, such as apples, beans, legumes, carrots, and oatmeal, are good for digestion and can help fight the symptoms of gastritis. Garlic Garlic is antibacterial and can help to kill the H. pylori bacteria. It can also reduce inflammation, thereby relieving one of the symptoms. Having raw pods of garlic can, however, cause irritation in some people. A helpful alternative is consuming garlic in the form of capsules. Whole grains Whole grains are good and should be consumed instead of processed grains. Brown rice is a good substitute for white rice and brown bread can be consumed instead of white bread. Lean meats Those suffering from gastritis should consume lean meats that have less fat and which do not irritate the stomach. They include skinless chicken, turkey, and pork chops. Lean proteins Lean proteins found in tuna, beans, chicken breast, and egg whites are good to include in a diet for gastritis.

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy rashes, blisters, skin irritation, and even results in leathery skin patches over time. While this condition is more common in kids aged less than two years, it can also affect older children and adults. Many people who suffer from eczema also tend to develop food allergies. So, it is important to discover one’s personal food needs for minimizing issues with eczema and the resulting allergies. Some of the common food allergies associated with eczema include: Shellfish Fish Nuts Gluten Soy products Eggs Cow’s milk However, not everyone may have the same flare ups or reactions to the same foods. Listed below are foods that contain properties that could help in decreasing eczema flare-ups, so that one can get to know their body and what foods works best for them. Foods to eat Fatty fish: One might be able to reduce their symptoms of eczema by eating fatty fish such as herring, mackerel, trout, and salmon. These fish include high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which leads to it having anti–inflammatory properties. One might also consider taking omega-3 supplements. Foods containing quercetin: The plant-based flavonoid quercetin helps give many veggies, fruits, and flowers their vibrant, rich colors. Quercetin also happens to be a powerful antihistamine and antioxidant which helps in reducing inflammation as well as histamine levels in the body. Foods that are rich in quercetin include kale, spinach, broccoli, cherries, blueberries, and apples. Foods containing probiotics: Probiotic food items like yogurt contain live culture that help in supporting a strong immune system, which could help lessen allergic reactions or flare-ups. Foods rich in probiotics include tempeh, kefir, unpasteurized sauerkraut, soft cheeses like Gouda, naturally fermented pickles, miso soup, and sourdough bread. Foods to avoid While what one eats might not directly cause eczema, it can be a trigger for a lot of symptoms.

5 snacks that can help lower cholesterol levels People who struggle with high cholesterol levels tend to begin thinking more about everything they eat. Whether it’s a bowl of fruit or a delicious hamburger, they are left wondering how their choices will impact their numbers. While it is tempting to skip snacking altogether, a healthy snack can go a long way in maintaining metabolism as well as blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Changing the kinds of foods one eats can not only lower cholesterol levels but also improve fat levels through the bloodstream. Here are some great snacks that are extremely helpful in fighting cholesterol. Popcorn Popcorn can be low in calories when one eats a smart serving size and avoids the salt and butter. What’s more, it’s a whole grain full of fiber. Popcorn can be easily made at home by air popping it and adding some olive oil and a little bit of parmesan cheese or a few seasonings for some extra flavor. Using olive oil instead of butter helps lower the bad LDL cholesterol and increase the good HDL cholesterol. Nuts Peanuts, walnuts, almonds, etc. are great for the heart and are powerhouses of energy. Some studies have even demonstrated that nuts slightly lower the levels of bad LDL cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, one should eat ¼ th of a cup of nuts every day for a healthy heart. Vegetables Vegetables are a great source of essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals, all of which go a long way in helping lower LDL cholesterol. While they might not be the first snack that one voluntarily reaches out for, vegetables are required by the body. Vegetable snacking is easier when you buy pre-cut vegetables or prep some vegetables for a weekly ration. Snacking is made easier when you can simply grab a handful of carrots or bell peppers and dip them in some delicious hummus.

Arthritis is a group of diseases that can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain in the joints and can end up affecting people of all ethnic backgrounds, genders, and ages. Arthritis is of different types. One of the common types is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease wherein the joints come under attack by the immune system. Another common type is osteoarthritis, which develops due to overuse of the joints. Fortunately, there are certain foods that can help manage the condition effectively by relieving joint pain and also by easing any inflammation caused. Listed below are some of the best foods that can help people suffering from arthritis manage the condition more effectively. Fatty fish: Fatty fish such as trout, sardines, mackerel, and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids that possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that people consuming fatty fish showed decreased levels of specific inflammation-related compounds, less morning stiffness, and joint pain intensity. Fatty fish are also rich in vitamin D, which can help prevent symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. According to the AHA (American Heart Association), including a minimum of around two servings of fatty fish in one’s diet helps fight against inflammation effectively. Garlic: Garlic and its components are full of health benefits as they possess cancer-fighting properties and are also responsible for lowering the risks of dementia and heart disease. Additionally, garlic has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties which could go a long way in helping reduce the symptoms of arthritis and even in strengthening the immune system. Ginger: Apart from the fact that it lends ample flavor to sweets, soups, and teas, ginger has also been shown to help in easing the symptoms of arthritis. According to studies conducted, ginger has shown to improve knee pain symptoms in those who consumed it. It also showed that ginger and its components help in blocking the production of substances that increase inflammation in the body as well.

One may have come across the concept of keto recently or rather seen in recipes, food packing and all over the Internet. It is the form of diet that is unique in nature because of the food items that it contains. They have a mix of highly fatty foods and low carb foods. This kind of diet involves the reduction in the amount of carbohydrates that one consumes and replaced with the fats. The reduction in the amount of carbs that are taken into the body puts the body in a metabolic state that is termed as ketosis. In such a state the body becomes very efficient at burning down the fats in order to derive energy. In the liver the fats are converted into ketones that supply energy to the brain. Advantages of the keto foods Initially this diet was used in the treatment of seizures and it has been successful in reducing seizures for several years. When a person begins this sort of diet there are many metabolic changes that one experiences. Studies have proved that the parameters of health that are linked to carrying excessive weight get enhanced such as high blood pressure, high triglycerides and cholesterol and insulin resistance. As the body is adapting to the higher dietary fats that one consumes in this diet it results in an increase in the oxidation of fats. When the carbs are reduced it directly has an impact on the concentration of glucose and thereby lowering them as time passes. This diet could be considered as a direct means of getting the diabetes of a person under control. Disadvantages of keto foods As whole food groups are eliminated in this diet, the nutrients that had to be obtained from whole grains and fruits are restricted and can cause deficiencies especially if the keto diet is not followed correctly or if there is no proper guidance provided to the person.

Cystic fibrosis is a rare disorder that causes thick and sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive tract. This can trigger severe symptoms, like mucus in stool, bloating, gas, and swollen belly. It also leads to malabsorption, a condition in which the small intestine cannot absorb nutrients from the diet. Here are a few dietary tips for managing cystic fibrosis: Dietary strategies and foods for adults with cystic fibrosis Although there is no specific diet for cystic fibrosis, dietitians suggest eating three meals and two to three snacks every day. The energy needs of those with cystic fibrosis are around 1.5 to 2 times the needs of those without the condition. Therefore, it is recommended to eat a high-calorie, high-fat diet, which includes 40 percent of total calories from fat. The extra calories consumed must be a part of a properly balanced diet with less saturated fats and more unsaturated fats. These include olive oil, nuts, and avocados. Additionally, walnut oil and flaxseed oil are also great options, as they lower inflammation. A few common ways to include extra calories from fat are adding cheese to egg recipes, selecting fatty fish, like salmon or mackerel, and adding ripe avocado in salads. Along with eating foods that help alleviate cystic fibrosis symptoms, one should not miss the prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements. Plus, it is essential to maintain proper hydration to prevent flare-ups and further complications, as those with cystic fibrosis have increased sweat production. Drinking adequate water can help fight infection and ensure that the thickened mucus in the lungs and digestive tract does not worsen, as it can make airway clearance more difficult. It can cause thicker secretions in the bowel and lead to blockages in the gut. Lack of fluid and excess salt loss can also cause headaches, cramps, and fatigue.

Lupus is a disorder that causes inflammation and pain throughout the body. It occurs when the immune system erroneously attacks healthy tissue, which means that it’s an autoimmune condition. Unfortunately, there is no specific diet to prevent lupus. However, eating and avoiding certain foods can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. So, let’s look at what foods to eat and avoid if an individual has lupus. The foods listed below are safe to consume for lupus patients. Omega-3-rich foods Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that have proven to lower inflammation. In people with lupus, Omega-3s can also reduce flare-ups; thus they are a vital nutrient. Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, shrimp, trout, and tuna, are the top sources of these healthy fatty acids. Those who don’t eat fish can choose from plant-based alternatives such as walnuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds. Foods high in calcium Medications prescribed to treat lupus may lead to bone disorders such as osteoporosis and osteopenia. To prevent such conditions, it’s important to increase the intake of a bone-strengthening mineral like calcium. Some of the best calcium-rich foods include low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese, tofu, beans, and dark leafy greens like spinach and broccoli. Since dairy products are high in saturated fats, it’s important to limit their consumption. Foods loaded with antioxidants Choose foods rich in antioxidants such as beta carotene, selenium, and vitamins A, C, E. Antioxidants can help lower inflammation and prevent cell damage due to free radicals. In some lupus patients, antioxidants can even prevent flare-ups. Some foods high in antioxidants include fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, red peppers, citrus fruits, and blueberries. Other excellent sources include oats, granola, nuts, legumes, black tea, and green tea. When it comes to foods to avoid, lupus patients should stay away from the following foods.

Hyperhidrosis is a health condition where one sweats excessively irrespective of the temperature or activity. They can sweat through their clothes, or it can even drip off their hands. Such excessive sweating puts people in uncomfortable positions, especially in public spaces. While there are treatments for hyperhidrosis, making some dietary changes can also help manage hyperhidrosis. Here’s a list of what to eat and avoid for excessive sweating. What to eat? Water-rich fruits and vegetables Adding fruits and vegetables rich in water content to the diet is a great way to keep the body cool and reduce excessive sweating. Cauliflower, eggplant, grapes, and watermelon are good water-rich food sources, to name a few. Olive oil Olive oil is good as far as metabolism and the digestion process are concerned. Good digestion keeps body temperature free from any irregular surges, in turn, preventing excessive sweating. So, it’s advisable to cook food in olive oil. Lots of water It’s a no-brainer that water is a saving grace for a lot of conditions, including hyperhidrosis. Water lowers the body temperature, which can help reduce sweat. Even at work, keeping a bottle of water nearby can save one from excessive sweating and embarrassment. What to avoid? Fatty and processed foods Consuming chocolates, white bread, and fast foods take longer for the body to process. This is why these foods cause excessive sweating when one eats or digests. It’s best to cut down on such foods. High-fat milk One should keep in mind that consuming high-fat milk can make them perspire even while drinking it. That’s because foods high in fat can induce excessive sweating and are definitely on the blacklist for people with hyperhidrosis. Spicy foods Eating spicy foods is non-negotiable. Spices confuse the body into thinking it’s a hot day. It triggers the sweat glands into unnecessarily trying to cool down the body, just like how it would play out on a hot day.

Kawasaki disease is a condition that leads to inflammation in the arteries, veins, and capillaries. Also called mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, the disease usually affects children, with around 4,200 cases reported every year in the country. Children of all genders, races, and ethnicities can be diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, but boys are more susceptible to this condition compared to girls. The symptoms of Kawasaki disease include swollen hands and feet, high fever for more than three days, and abdominal pain and vomiting. Fortunately, using a combination of medications and lifestyle measures, Kawasaki disease can be controlled. However, in this article, we’re focusing exclusively on how diet affects Kawasaki disease. Diet and Kawasaki disease Researchers and experts are unsure what causes Kawasaki disease. The condition is not well understood and is usually flagged as a genetic disorder. The link between diet and Kawasaki disease is also somewhat unclear, though a research study published a few years ago could help scientists understand it better. The study, which was published in the journal Nutrition Research, went on to conclude that increased soy consumption leads to an increased risk of Kawasaki disease in children and young infants. Sharing his views on the same, the lead author of the study Dr. Michael Portman, who is a pediatric cardiologist and a researcher at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, said at the time, “It’s concerning that high consumption of foods like tofu, soy formula, edamame, and other soy products is a risk factor for Kawasaki disease.” Note, however, that while reducing consumption of soy foods decreases the risk of Kawasaki disease, it can’t prevent the problem altogether. The same can be said about every other food, which is a problem for parents as it makes it difficult for them to create a diet plan for their children. Still, it is recommended that children eat foods that are rich in fiber and good for the heart.