There are plenty of face creams and products to make your skin healthy and glowing. But beautiful and healthy skin comes with the right nourishment. The human body is constantly shedding old cells and replacing them with new ones. To support this process, a supply of essential minerals is important. This comes with eating the right kind of food. Here’s a list of five foods that will keep your skin healthy and glowing. Bananas Bananas are a great food source to get healthy, glowing, and oil-free skin. They are rich in potassium and vitamins E and C, which are known to give glowing skin. These compounds are powerful exfoliators and help remove excess sebum from the surface of your skin. Bananas also help treat acne. Apply the inside of the peel onto the acne to destroy harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation. Fish Fish like salmon, mackerel, and herring are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help keep the skin blemish-free and supple. They help fight inflammation and reduce dryness, redness, and acne. Sardines, on the other hand, are excellent sources of vitamin B12 that play a major role in skin cell reproduction. Avocados Avocados are full of healthy fats and vitamin E. The latter regulates inflammation, rejuvenates skin, and improves the production of new skin cells. Avocados prevent the skin from oxidative damage caused by harmful rays of the sun and a harsh environment. Sweet potatoes Sweet potatoes contain vitamin A, which is known to reduce the production of sebum and acne. This vegetable also contains beta carotene, a natural skin block. Carotene protects the skin from sunburns and cell death and adds a warm orange color, enhancing the skin’s glow. Broccoli Broccoli contains a carotenoid called lutein that works just like beta carotene. It prevents oxidative damage, keeping the skin healthy and wrinkle-free.

A significant percentage of our body is made up of water, so there’s no denying that it is essential to our overall health. While most people understand that they must drink approximately eight glasses every day, they don’t know that there are certain times when the habit can be more helpful. So, understand when to drink water for maximum benefits instead of chugging multiple glasses whenever you feel like it. Immediately after waking up Drink a glass or two of water first thing in the morning. Supplying H2O to your body on an empty stomach has numerous benefits. It helps cleanse the bowels, flush toxins, boost energy levels, improve skin health, and even strengthen the immune system, among other things. Before and during meals A glass of water before a meal enhances the feeling of fullness and curbs the tendency to overeat. On the other hand, drinking water during a meal helps with digestion, especially if you’re eating high-fiber foods like beans, lentils, and oatmeal. That said, don’t drink too much, as it may dilute the natural juices that aid digestion. Before and after exercise For moderate-intensity daily workouts, drink a glass or two of water about 30 minutes before starting. The body loses both water and electrolytes through sweat. So, sip on another glass or two after exercising and an electrolyte drink to replenish the lost reserves. Midafternoon If you lack energy midafternoon, don’t reach out for coffee. While it can give an instant energy boost, coffee may disrupt sleep at night. You need to address the root cause of the midafternoon slump: dehydration. Drink a glass of water or more to fight fatigue and boost your energy and mood. Before bedtime Don’t hit the bed in a dehydrated state. Hydration before bedtime can lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

An individual may hit the gym to improve their overall fitness. But sometimes, the person may not see the expected results, despite the unwavering effort put in regularly. In such situations, the individual is likely in the habit of making a few rookie errors at the gym. These mistakes may hamper the quality of their workout and affect daily results. So here are five workout mistakes that one should fix to reach their goals. Excessive warm-ups As most gym enthusiasts would know, an ideal time to prepare the body for rigorous exercise is after a long day at work. However, one should avoid indulging in half an hour of corrective exercises before the workout session. Doing so may result in a lack of concentration during the weightlifting section of the routine. Instead, spend about 5 to 10 minutes warming up and focusing on techniques that stretch the spine. Getting comfortable Getting comfortable with one set of exercises would mean they are not pushing the body enough to strengthen the other muscles. Therefore, one should interchange their routines regularly for the best results. Skipping sessions Sometimes the individual may skip a day at the gym to relax at home or head out to spend an evening with friends. While this is fine on occasions, one should avoid skipping workout sessions. Staying sincere in their routine is the best way to get the most out of the time spent at the gym. Poor nutrition One may indulge in regular exercise but fail to maintain healthy nutrition. Such individuals may consume junk food and sugary drinks and miss certain meals. But for best results, one should avoid unhealthy foods and eat meals on time. Doing so will ensure their immune system remains strong. It will also help them improve muscle strength. Inappropriate gear A person may hit the gym, work out at home, or go for a run.

The number of diabetes cases has risen over the past few years. Research suggests specific contagious viruses can replicate within the beta cells of the pancreas that produce insulin, affecting the hormone’s synthesis and secretion. Moreover, the mild inflammation triggered by these viruses worsens diabetes by causing insulin resistance. While people know the general health risks of eating too much sugar, there is an urgent need to identify the eight signs of excessive sugar intake. Increase in appetite Sugary foods are rich in calories. But they do not have the nutritional value that the body otherwise gains from proteins, fiber, and antioxidants found in healthy foods. Empty calories cannot satiate a full-grown adult. So, to fill this void, many people turn to compulsive snacking throughout the day. Excess fatigue People who eat sugary foods and beverages regularly might experience frequent bouts of fatigue. Excess sugar triggers abnormal changes in insulin levels, and energy levels drop rapidly as the body tries to process the extra calories. Acne and skin problems One of the most noticeable signs of excess sugar intake is adult acne and skin problems. This is mainly because of blood glucose imbalance since the body’s glycemic levels influence skin health. Digestive problems Sugar is an underlying irritant that can result in many digestive problems. People may experience stomach pain and cramping. Diarrhea is also a significant risk factor for those with gastrointestinal issues. Dental problems Having sugary foods and beverages every day increases the risk of cavities. The bacteria in the mouth thrive off particles left behind in the molars, leading to cavities and other dental problems. Joint pain Sugar is also an inflammatory trigger, so those suffering from joint problems will experience more pain with increased inflammation. Trouble sleeping Glycemic levels in the body also influence sleep cycles.

Parkinson’s disease and tardive dyskinesia (TD) are neurological disorders whose onset is marked by several similar yet distinct indicators. These symptoms may not always be obvious; however, it is important to recognize them early for timely diagnosis and intervention. The significant difference between Parkinson’s disease and TD is that in the former condition, individuals experience difficulty moving, while the latter is characterized by involuntary movements. Here are some symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and TD. Micrographia Micrographia, the gradual reduction in handwriting size, is a subtle yet significant early sign of Parkinson’s disease. Those grappling with Parkinson’s may encounter difficulties sustaining legible scripts as the ailment advances. This seemingly benign symptom can signal underlying neurologic shifts. Olfactory sensation loss Anosmia, the absence of the sense of smell, can be an initial indicator of Parkinson’s and TD. A diminishing capacity to detect odors or an abrupt olfactory impairment frequently transpires years before the emergence of other discernible symptoms. This symptom is caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the olfactory bulb. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) Restless Leg Syndrome, characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, emerges as a common unspoken symptom of Parkinson’s and TD. Individuals with these conditions may experience discomfort and a constant need to shift their legs. Slouched posture A stooped or hunched posture is a physical change observed in Parkinson’s patients. This symptom, known as postural instability, happens due to the impairment of postural reflexes and can lead to challenges in maintaining an erect posture. Understanding this postural shift helps in early diagnosis and proper treatment. Swift blinking and facial contortions Tardive dyskinesia often leads to involuntary movements of the face and eyes, including rapid blinking, facial contortions, and tongue protrusion. Recognizing these silent symptoms of Parkinson’s and TD is important in facilitating timely diagnosis and care.

Recognizing the subtle yet critical distinctions between Parkinson’s disease and Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) might be a challenging task for healthcare professionals. This is because these neurological conditions share some common signs, such as involuntary movements and speech difficulties. However, understanding their unique presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Learning about the signs could also help curate the right treatment plan. Here are seven similar early signs between Parkinson’s and TD that are often overlooked. Anxiety Both Parkinson’s and TD can enhance anxiety levels in affected individuals. Managing not only the motor symptoms but also the emotional well-being of patients is crucial for their comprehensive care. Impaired gait People with Parkinson’s disease and TD might also experience impaired gait. In Parkinson’s, it results in a shuffling, hesitant walk due to muscle rigidity, and balance problems. In TD, abnormal, jerky limb and trunk movements disrupt coordination, leading to an unsteady gait. These gait disturbances significantly affect mobility and daily life. Problems with speech Parkinson’s and TD often lead to pronounced speech difficulties due to involuntary movements affecting the tongue, lips, and facial muscles. This results in slurred speech, articulation challenges, and difficulties forming words, severely impeding effective communication. Akathisia Akathisia or feeling of restlessness, poses a shared challenge in people with Parkinson’s and TD. In Parkinson’s patients, it often emerges as a byproduct of motor discomfort due to bradykinesia and rigidity, leading patients to shift positions restlessly. In TD, akathisia may result from certain treatment options, which may cause restlessness and make it difficult for patients to remain still. Depression In Parkinson’s, dopamine deficiency and motor impairments contribute to emotional distress. TD’s involuntary movements may lead to social isolation and depression. Both conditions highlight the need for holistic care to enhance the overall well-being of patients. Grunting Grunting in Parkinson’s disease and TD is an often overlooked phenomenon.

Brittle bone disease, medically known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), is a rare genetic disorder that affects one in about 20,000 people. Marked by fragile bones prone to fractures and deformities, the condition often presents a unique set of challenges, and identifying it early in children is crucial for their well-being. While some symptoms of OI are obvious, others are hidden, making early diagnosis a complex task. Here are 6 signs that should prompt one to seek immediate medical attention. 6 signs to look for Blue sclera The sclera is the whites of the eyes. In brittle bone disease, the sclera may appear to be discolored, with a bluish, purple, or gray tint. This is due to the thinness of the sclera, which allows the underlying blood vessels to show through. Dental issues Children with brittle bone disease often experience dental problems, including brittle, discolored, or misaligned teeth and a high susceptibility to cavities. While dental changes are common in children, if a child repeatedly presents with dental issues, it may be a hidden sign of brittle bone disease. Hearing loss Parents should be vigilant if their child exhibits signs of hearing difficulty. OI can also lead to hearing problems, which might not be immediately associated with bone fragility. The bones in the ear can be affected, resulting in conductive hearing loss. Respiratory issues In more severe cases of OI, children may experience recurrent respiratory problems. The fragile rib cage, which may appear to be shaped like a barrel due to OI, can make it challenging for children to breathe properly. Coxa vara This is a type of condition where one’s hip joint looks deformed because the top part of the leg bone has bent down. This deformity can be a sign of OI. Short stature Another less conspicuous sign of OI is a short stature.

Myasthenia gravis is a condition that weakens the voluntary muscles, making them tire easily. It develops when the communication between nerves and muscles breaks down. While there is no permanent cure for myasthenia gravis, treatment can help ease the symptoms. Further, recognizing the signs and seeking an early diagnosis can help one better manage the condition. So, here is a look at some of the key signs of myasthenia gravis: 1. Drooping eyelids More than half of those with myasthenia gravis experience eye-related issues as the first sign of the condition. Here, drooping of one or both eyelids, called ptosis, can be a common sign. One may also experience other symptoms associated with the eyes, like diplopia (double vision), which could make one see dual horizontal or vertical images. 2. Difficulty with speech Speech-related issues could indicate the onset of myasthenia gravis. This could include a hypernasal voice or slurred speech (dysarthria), which is usually observed in younger people diagnosed with the condition. 3. Trouble chewing Difficulty eating or chewing can be a sign of myasthenia gravis. Here, the muscles that help one chew food can tire halfway through a meal. This symptom can seem more prominent while eating something hard to chew, like a steak. Another symptom associated with the face includes a change in expressions; say, a smile can look like a snarl. 4. Breathing issues Myasthenia gravis can cause weakness of the chest wall muscles, leading to breathing problems. Here, one may feel like they are not getting enough air or find inhaling uncomfortable. If one notices persistent breathing issues without any physical exertion, they should consult a doctor. 5. Trouble walking Another common sign of myasthenia gravis is a change in how one walks. As the condition causes weakness in the arms and legs, it could make walking difficult, changing the gait.

Vitiligo is a rare skin disease that causes discoloration or pigmentation on one’s skin. People with vitiligo may notice smooth white or light patches appearing on their skin that may get bigger with time. The condition can affect any part of the body, including hair and the insides of one’s mouth. Vitiligo is not a contagious or life-threatening condition; it can be prevented and healed with some foods and home remedies. Understanding vitiligo One’s skin tone and hair color are determined by the quantity of melanin produced by their body cells. If melanin production is hampered, one may develop conditions like vitiligo. The condition usually occurs in the exposed areas of the skin, including hands, forearms, feet, and face. One may also notice premature graying or whitening of hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, and beard. Additionally, there may be discoloration around the genitals. Common causes of vitiligo The exact cause of vitiligo is not known. Abnormal genetic mutation, a family history of the condition, or a triggering event may affect the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes and cause vitiligo. Moreover, extreme sunburn, physical or emotional stress, or exposure to toxic chemicals may also lead to developing vitiligo. Foods that help prevent vitiligo Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease that may lead to inflammation and damage of cells. Hence, adding foods that boost immunity and are rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals to one’s daily meals may help prevent the condition from recurring or getting worse. Berries Fruits rich in antioxidants such as raspberries and strawberries can help in reducing cellular damage and inflammation. Bananas, apples, and papayas Bananas and apples are rich in phytochemicals, beta-carotene, and antioxidants, which help build immunity and prevent the condition. Beets, carrots, and radishes Common root vegetables like beets, carrots, and radishes are also rich in immunity-boosting nutrients that can help prevent cell damage.

Breast cancer, a condition more common in older women, is a predominantly invasive disease where tumors grow uncontrollably in the breasts. In most cases, doctors prescribe a combination of management options like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, or surgery to fight off the cancer cells. While they hamper disease progression, these treatments may cause some side effects, such as nausea, constipation, vomiting, loss of appetite, exhaustion, and pain. Remedies to alleviate side effects One of the best ways to avoid or lower the chance of side effects of cancer treatment is to opt for relatively safer options like Enhertu, which does not harm healthy cells and targets only cancer cells. Enhertu attaches to certain cancer cell proteins and delivers chemotherapy directly to the cancer cells, reducing some common side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. That being said, certain home remedies can also lower the chance of or alleviate common side effects of breast cancer. 1. Have smaller meal portions Stomach sickness caused by cancer treatment is a common side effect. To manage that, one can eat smaller portions of meals frequently throughout the day. Eating wholesome, dry, and bland foods and avoiding any strong flavors is recommended. One can also get rid of any bad taste in the mouth by regularly rinsing their mouth both before and after meals. 2. Engage in moderate exercise and rest Fatigue and tiredness are other common side effects of breast cancer treatments. To recover well, one should aim for an adequate sleep of seven to eight hours. Mild to moderate exercises like walking can also help. It is also recommended to take frequent breaks during the day and spread out any tasks to allow for sufficient rest. 3. Use cooling caps Chemotherapy and targeted therapies can affect one’s hair, leading to hair thinning, hair loss, or scalp damage.