10 household products that are harmful to lung health

10 household products that are harmful to lung health

A healthy home environment involves recognizing and minimizing potential health hazards. This includes being aware of certain household items that can trigger respiratory problems. You may not be able to completely stop using some of these products, such as cleaning supplies, paints, etc. However, you can take a few precautions while using them to minimize the health risk to your lungs. Here’s a comprehensive list of household products that are harmful to lung health. Aerosol sprays Many household products come in the form of aerosol sprays. Certain makeup products at home, such as hair sprays, also are packaged in aerosol sprays. While this type of packaging makes it easier to use these products, they are harmful in the long run. These sprays usually have volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as key ingredients. These compounds release harmful chemicals into the air in your home. When there is prolonged exposure to these sprays, there can be occurrences of lung disorders and respiratory health problems. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets Fabric softeners and dryer sheets make it convenient to do laundry. However, it is important to be wary of certain brands of these products. Make sure to read the label and avoid anything that contains chemicals that release VOCs. When released into the air, these compounds can lead to short-term respiratory issues, allergies, asthma, and lung irritation. A better alternative to these household products is to use wool dryer balls and natural fabric softeners such as baking soda or vinegar. Natural organic fabric softeners are also a healthier choice. Cleaning products To maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of a home, cleaning products are the most essential items. However, most of these products, particularly floor cleaners, toilet cleaners, and window cleaners, contain chemicals. These include ammonia, chlorine, and bleach. These chemicals release toxic fumes. Prolonged exposure to these can cause respiratory issues and lung disorders.
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6 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

6 uncomfortable questions to ask a gynecologist

A trusted gynecologist can help in treating any illnesses and preventing the onset of illnesses by giving the right advice and tips on health. It is important to be honest with your doctor about any illness and symptoms that you may be experiencing that cause discomfort. While some questions may seem embarrassing, it is vital to ask them regardless to help in recovery and understanding the health condition. Here are 6 uncomfortable questions to ask your gynecologist. What does vaginal discharge indicate? Vaginal discharge is normal and healthy. A fluid flows out of the vagina daily, and this is the genital’s way of cleansing itself. This is an entirely natural process and is the body’s way of keeping the vagina healthy and bacteria-free. The discharge varies from woman to woman. Usually, the discharge is more when the woman is in her fertile phase, and it is usually milky or white and odorless. This indicates that nothing is wrong. If the discharge is too thick and white and is followed by other symptoms like vaginal itching, soreness, burning, or even pain, this could indicate a yeast infection. Sometimes if the discharge is yellow or gray and is followed by symptoms like fishy odor, vaginal swelling, and itching, it could indicate bacterial infection. There is no shame in speaking to a gynecologist about these symptoms, as they can only provide proper treatment once they have all the information. Does my vulva look normal? It is extremely normal to be curious about the vulva. Questions like is it too big, too small, or too dark are expected. The right answer is that the vulva is different in every female, and hence there is no right kind of vulva. Until and unless an individual experiences any symptoms that point to an illness, the vulva is just as it is supposed to be and healthy.
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9 common types of muscular dystrophy and their symptoms

9 common types of muscular dystrophy and their symptoms

Muscular dystrophy causes the loss of muscle mass. Over time, the muscles lose their strength. Muscular dystrophy generally refers to a group of over 30 genetic conditions. Abnormal gene mutations cause these debilitating conditions. The mutations interfere with the normal production of proteins. As a result, there is a disruption in the generation and regeneration of healthy muscle mass. Each of these conditions has its own set of symptoms. Here are some common signs to watch out for based on the type of muscular dystrophy: 1. Duchenne-type muscular dystrophy This is one of the most common types of muscular dystrophy. It is mostly observed among children assigned male at birth (AMAB). However, those assigned female at birth (AFAB) may also be at risk. Most of these symptoms appear during childhood. Finding it difficult to get up from a sitting or lying position Showing signs of delayed growth Falling frequently Experiencing difficulty jumping or running Walking on the toes Waddling gait Experiencing muscular stiffness and pain Having enlarged calf muscles Becker muscular dystrophy This is another common type of muscular dystrophy. Most of the signs of this condition are nearly identical to those of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. But the severity of the symptoms is milder. Also, the progress of the symptoms is slower in Becker muscular dystrophy. In most cases, most of these symptoms start showing during the teenage years. But sometimes, symptoms only appear in adulthood, i.e., after the mid-20s. Common signs of this type of muscular dystrophy include the following: Walking gets difficult over a period of time Walking up the stairs gets harder Having a low tolerance for exercise Experiencing frequent muscle pain and spasms Showing a tendency to walk on toes Feeling fatigued Myotonic muscular dystrophy This type of muscular dystrophy is commonly diagnosed in adulthood. Men and women are both at equal risk.
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12 common signs of high sugar intake

12 common signs of high sugar intake

Moderate sugar intake is considered safe; after all, many foods, such as fruits, naturally contain sugar. Further, the body uses sugar to produce energy. However, a persistently high intake of sugar can harm health. This excessive intake is usually brought on by heavy dependence on packaged and highly processed food, ready-to-eat meals, baked goods, and other products containing refined sugar and additives. Here are common signs indicating high sugar intake: Persistent sugar cravings Surprisingly, one of the most common signs of high sugar intake is constant cravings for sugary foods. This leads to over-indulgence in sugary snacks and desserts such as cookies, candies, packaged cakes, doughnuts, and flavored yogurt. This sign usually develops as a high intake of sugar causes an increase in the level of ghrelin, a hormone that is associated with an increase in appetite for sugar goods. Joint pain The excessive intake of sugar leads to an increase in the level of cytokines in the tissues of the body. These substances induce inflammation in the joints, and persistently high levels of inflammation can lead to chronic pain in the region. Frequent mood swings Sugar intake causes a release of certain chemicals in the brain that are related to pleasure and happiness. In addition, they can cause a sudden burst of energy. Under normal circumstances, the energy levels come down after a while without any adverse effects. But when sugar intake is high, the burst of energy is bigger, leading to a steep energy crash. This fluctuation is also responsible for the release of stress hormones, further contributing to mood swings. High blood pressure Excessive sugar consumption can also cause hypertension or high blood pressure. Those who regularly have sweetened beverages and sugary foods may experience high blood glucose levels. This can damage the blood vessels and lead to an increase in cholesterol levels.
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14 worst foods for teeth to avoid

14 worst foods for teeth to avoid

Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being, and what one eats plays a significant role in it. While many specific foods and beverages promote strong teeth and gums, others can harm them. Learning more about dental health and avoiding foods that can harm the teeth is essential to understanding oral health better. Below are the top 14 foods that are detrimental to one’s teeth and must be avoided. Candies Candies are one of the primary culprits when it comes to dental problems. Sugars serve as food for harmful bacteria in the mouths, producing acids that erode tooth enamel. Hard and soft candies and chewy gummy treats are particularly harmful. Overconsumption of these sweets can result in cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Sodas These beverages are packed with sugars and acids, creating a perfect storm for dental problems. The sugars nourish bacteria in the mouth, while the acids can erode tooth enamel. Even sodas, although sugar-free, can be harmful due to their acidity. It is best to minimize the consumption of sodas to protect the teeth from its harmful effects. Gummies Sticky and chewy snacks like gummy candies and caramels are not ideal for dental health. Not only are they packed with sugars feeding harmful bacteria, but they also stick to the surface of teeth, making it difficult for saliva to wash them away. To prevent the negative impact of gummies, brushing and flossing meticulously after snacking on them is essential. Additionally, incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots into one’s meals can help keep the teeth healthy. Hard candy Chewing on ice or hard candies can lead to dental emergencies like cracked or chipped teeth. To protect the teeth, avoiding chewing on hard objects is crucial. If one has the habit of crunching ice, consider using ice substitutes like crushed ice or chilled beverages to satisfy cravings.
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8 breakfast options to reduce arthritis inflammation

8 breakfast options to reduce arthritis inflammation

Living with arthritis can be challenging. The pain and discomfort induced by inflammation can cause a lot of hindrance in daily activities. However, eating a meal plan rich in anti-inflammatory foods can significantly help manage symptoms. And the best way to start is with the most important meal of the day, i.e., breakfast! Eating the right combination of foods for breakfast can make a big difference in managing inflammation and promoting overall joint health. So here is a list of breakfast options specially designed to help combat arthritis inflammation and start the day on a positive note: 1. Fruits with yogurt One of the best ways to start the day is with a refreshing and inflammation-fighting combination of fresh fruits and yogurt. Greek yogurt is high in protein, omega-3 fats, which help fight inflammation, and probiotics, which promote good digestion. To make this satiating and wholesome, combine the Greek yogurt with fresh fruits like berries. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries taste excellent with yogurt and are rich in antioxidants, which aid in reducing inflammatory symptoms. Yogurt can also be paired with fresh pineapples, which contain anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, since these fruits and berries are naturally sweet, adding artificial sweeteners can be avoided. 2. Avocado toast Avocado toast has become a beloved breakfast trend for a reason. It is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for those looking to combat inflammation. Avocados have anti-inflammatory properties thanks to their monounsaturated fat content. Furthermore, one can choose toasted multigrain bread to pair with the avocados. The high fiber content of multigrain bread also aids in reducing inflammatory symptoms. Avocado toast is also fairly easy to make. All one must do is spread mashed avocado over freshly toasted multigrain bread. To make it even better, it can be topped with a sprinkle of chia or flax seeds, which are also anti-inflammatory.
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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It’s an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It’s rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease . Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers.
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Top Foods for Managing Macular Degeneration

Top Foods for Managing Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people over 60. Presently, it affects over 10 million people in the country. As one gets older, the risk of developing the condition increases, and so those over 75 have a nearly 33% risk of being diagnosed with macular degeneration. While the disease does not have a permanent cure, a few treatment options and the following nutrient-rich foods can help one manage the symptoms. Whole grains, beans, and dairy Zinc is a vital mineral that helps in the absorption of vitamin A, which aids in melanin production, a pigment that protects the eye. This is why most sight-related issues, such as cataracts or poor night sight, are related to zinc deficiency. Research suggests those with high AMD risk can slow the progression of the disease by adding zinc and some antioxidants to their daily meals. Some great zinc sources are whole grains, dairy products, and beans. Even though one can find zinc supplements in the market, the products might intervene with the body’s ability to absorb copper. So, if one meets their daily zinc requirements via supplements, they opt for copper supplements too. However, before introducing such changes to one’s meal plans, one must discuss them with a nutritionist or a doctor. Nuts and seeds Omega-3 fatty acids provide the body with the nourishment to combat inflammation and are great for eye health. A few excellent omega-3 sources are flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed oil, soybean oil, and canola oil. These foods can help lower bad cholesterol in the body, typically associated with increasing the risk of macular degeneration. Oranges Folate is a B vitamin and aids in cell replication. People who have a substantial folate intake show signs of slow eye disease progression. One can meet the body’s folate requirements by choosing foods like peanuts, orange juice, oranges, Brussels Sprouts, black-eyed peas, grains, and spinach.
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Top 6 Liquid Detergents for Seniors

Top 6 Liquid Detergents for Seniors

If you’re like most people, doing laundry is presumably not your preferred chore. It’s time-consuming and often requires multiple steps. However, one way to make laundry easier is to use a liquid detergent designed specifically for seniors. Liquid laundry detergents are becoming increasingly popular because they are easy to use and can be stored conveniently. They are less likely to cause skin irritation than powder detergents. Below are the top six liquid detergents for seniors. Benefits of using liquid detergents Liquid detergents are an excellent choice for many reasons. Liquid detergents work better than powders because they can penetrate the fabric more efficiently and remove dirt, dust, and stains from the fabric’s surface. They also have a low environmental impact because they do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. Liquid detergents are also easy to use. You must pour them into your washing machine and wash your clothes. And if you want to save the detergent; liquid detergents come in bottles that allow you to measure how much soap is needed per load. Most liquid detergents are biodegradable, which reduces waste disposal costs and helps protect our environment. Finally, liquid detergents leave your clothes feeling soft and silky after washing them. This is because they dissolve water-soluble fibers in the fabric, which causes them to be drawn out by the washer’s spin cycle. Why should seniors choose their liquid detergents carefully? Our skin becomes sensitive and prone to dryness and irritation as we age. That’s why choosing a liquid detergent designed for seniors is crucial. Look for one that is hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, dyes, and other harsh chemicals. A good senior-friendly liquid detergent will keep your skin clean and refreshed. Top 6 senior-friendly liquid detergents Charlie’s soap natural liquid laundry detergent It is a safe, effective, and affordable option for those seeking an alternative to conventional laundry detergents.
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10 Amazing Laundry Detergents For Daily Needs

10 Amazing Laundry Detergents For Daily Needs

Laundry is an essential daily routine task, which can sometimes get tiresome. With a suitable laundry detergent, your clothes will come clean and smell fresh. Moreover, your laundry detergent should be practical and cruelty-free. To make your purchasing decision easier, here is a list of the top ten highly efficient laundry detergent options and their highlighting features. So, if you want to make your daily laundry tasks easier, read on. Method 8X laundry detergent There are a lot of laundry detergents on the market these days, and it can take a lot of work to single out the right for you. If you’re looking for a highly efficient option, Method 8X laundry detergent is a great choice. This detergent comes in a pump bottle, and it’s able to handle 50 loads of laundry. It’s also very affordable, costing just $14.58 for 20 fl oz. Additionally, it is allergen-free. This ultra-concentrated (8x) formula is plant-based and cruelty-free, making it an excellent choice among eco-friendly options. Moreover, the smart-clean technology ensures that your clothes come out clean and fresh with every wash. Earth Breeze eco sheets This detergent is made with natural ingredients and is available for $20 for 60 loads of laundry. It comes in a convenient 2-pack to clean your clothes without spending too much money. And if that’s not enough, it also has certified organic status, meaning its ingredients are sourced from plants that are certified organic by an accredited body. These sheets are made with phosphate-free and biodegradable ingredients, so you can feel good about using them without harming the planet. This detergent is safe for machine and hand washing, making it an excellent option for anyone who wants to avoid harsh chemicals. They are also paraben-free, making them a perfect choice for sensitive skin. Additionally, they’re highly efficient in removing the toughest stains from all kinds of fabrics, meaning you’ll use less detergent overall and save money in the long run.
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11 Practical Tips For Managing Anxiety

11 Practical Tips For Managing Anxiety

Have you experienced your heart racing faster as a response to a stressful situation? Did your palms ever get clammy when confronted with an overwhelming event or task? These are all typical symptoms of anxiety. It is your body’s natural response to stress and gets triggered by an event, a memory, or by a multitude of things in general. It is essential to identify your triggers and seek ways to cope with or manage anxiety. 11 tried and tested ways to manage anxiety Practice deep breathing Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to the brain and helps calm the system down. So, if you feel yourself becoming tense, inhale and exhale multiple times, and you will feel relaxed. It is an excellent activity to slow down and recenter your mind. Write down your thoughts Maintaining a journal to regularly jot your thoughts on paper or in the notes app can help you process your emotions. It also paradoxically eases anxiety. When you dump the thoughts hovering in your head on the paper, you can string them apart and try and get a new perspective. It is known as cognitive defusion, wherein you develop an observer or witness perspective for your thoughts. From the mindfulness perspective, it is decentering, a skill vital for change. It also helps better your meta-cognition skills, which helps with cognitive flexibility, quintessential for mental fitness. Repeat it till you overcome it Do you have a fear of going on the stage? You may be able to get rid of it if you continually push yourself. So, go on the stage repeatedly and perform. Of course, you will be very anxious at first, but over time it will reduce and stop bothering you eventually. So, take the troublesome route and do it over and over again.
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Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular among those looking to replace missing teeth. These implants are strong and durable and look just like natural teeth. Moreover, the procedure is simple. If you, too, are considering dental implants, it is essential to know all the facts before making an appointment with the dentist. This article discusses a few essential things you need to know about implants, from their types to the benefits they offer. What are dental implants? These are artificial teeth recommended for those with missing or damaged original teeth. The implants are affixed by dentists using a few tools. The look-alikes are made using biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, which blend with the bone over time. Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing teeth. They are often considered the best option for people who cannot restore their teeth function using traditional methods, such as dentures or bridges. However, implants may need to be replaced if they wear down or are moved out of position due to chewing or dental issues. What are the steps involved in affixing dental implants? When considering dental implants, it is essential to understand the steps involved in the process. Dental surgery is complex and delicate and requires careful planning and execution. Here are the steps to be followed: Evaluation During this stage, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine which type of implant best suits you. This includes taking X-rays and performing a physical examination. Teeth extraction If necessary, the doctor will remove all your teeth before beginning the implant process. This is necessary to ensure no debris or other objects get in the way of implant placement. Grating After your teeth have been extracted, the dentist will use a special grater to create tiny grooves in each tooth surface.
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