Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by the development of sores or ulcers on the colon’s innermost lining. Its symptoms include bloody stools, diarrhea, rectal pain, cramping, fatigue, urgent bowel movements, and abdominal pain. These discomforts can unexpectedly come and go. In other words, they can reoccur after a period of remission. While you might feel helpless because of these fluctuations, you can control your symptoms with lifestyle and nutritional changes. Avoid dairy products More research and evidence are required to prove that specific meals can cause ulcerative colitis. However, experts recommend staying away from certain foods and beverages that may aggravate the symptoms. One of the most common things to avoid is dairy products. This would mean limiting or avoiding yogurt, milk, ice cream, cheese, and other products made of milk. Steering clear of dairy products can prevent abdominal pain and gas, which often result from this disorder. Do away with fiber Doctors usually advise people to add high-fiber foods to their meals, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, because of their nutritional value. But if you have ulcerative colitis, fiber can worsen the symptoms, especially if consumed in excess. So, stay away from seeds, corn, nuts, and popcorn, and see if you notice any difference. While raw fruits and vegetables may also cause trouble, do not completely ignore them. These foods might be safe if baked, steamed, grilled, or roasted. Though fiber helps regulate bowel movements, too much fiber can cause digestion issues and worsen flare-ups. When you experience a flare-up, stick to foods with no more than two grams of fiber per serving. You can also choose low-fiber foods, such as eggs, tofu, refined carbohydrates, juice without pulp, butter, fish, and cooked meat. Be smart when choosing beverages Like foods, certain beverages can also aggravate the signs of this disease by stimulating your intestines.

Dental implants are the most promising way to restore a smile on the faces of people who have lost one or more teeth. This procedure is widely suggested for people who lost their teeth in an accident or due to periodontal disease. Dental implants help people grind and chew food properly and also help in giving their appearance a proper definition. Read on to learn more about this procedure, its types, and its benefits. Who needs dental implants? An individual with one or more missing teeth or damaged roots would require dental implants. This procedure replaces a tooth or teeth that have been lost. They are usually made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that does not cause inflammation in the body when it enters it. It can replace one or more teeth, including the root of a molar (the back part of your upper jaw). Types of dental implants There are three types of dental implants – endosteal implants, subperiosteal implants, and zygomatic implants. Dental implants are placed into the jawbone. They can be placed either endosteal (through the bone) or subperiosteal (on the surface of your jawbone). Endosteal implants Endosteal implantation is done by creating a hole in your oral cavity, then inserting a metal post inside this opening. This procedure lasts around six months and successfully restores teeth lost due to decay or trauma. When there are not enough teeth remaining after removal surgery, endosteal implants may be used as an alternative to other methods, such as partial dentures or bridgework, because it does not necessitate extensive surgery on your mouth area itself. Subperiosteal implants Subperiosteal implants were invented as an alternative to endosteal implants, performed when there is an insufficient healthy bone in the lower jaw to support the implants. In this implant, a metal frame is planted with a post attached to the gum.

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast. Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer. Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age. Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men. Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast. Radiation exposure The risk of developing the disease increases if you have been exposed to radiation in your head, neck, or chest areas during past treatments. Hormone replacement therapy Women who use hormone replacement therapy may be more prone to breast cancer. Types of breast cancer Breast cancer can be categorized into two broad types— invasive and non-invasive. Invasive breast cancer Cancer that has spread from the place of origin to other parts of the body is termed invasive breast cancer.

As people age, several conditions can develop, affecting their general well-being. Of these, age-related macular degeneration is common in people over 50. The condition leads to vision problems due to severe degradation of the focal area of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for focused vision. Macular degeneration affects central vision and the ability to recognize faces, use a computer, or watch television. Here is how one can prevent the condition: Wear sunglasses Regularly putting on sunglasses while stepping out can help one protect their eyes. Excessive sun exposure for prolonged periods increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration (or AMD). Additionally, looking directly at bright sunlight, even for a short period, can cause permanent damage to the retina. Sunglasses that bear a UV400 protection label are excellent options. Further, one should always wear sunglasses when stepping out to prevent making their eyes vulnerable to vision-related issues. If one spends a lot of time in the sun, they should also wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect the eyes from UV rays. Additionally, as age-related macular degeneration can develop in people who have had excessive exposure to sunlight, one should avoid looking directly at the sun during peak daylight. Those who spend a lot of time using digital devices should consider taking a break every 20 minutes and looking away from the screens to reduce strain on the eyes. It is also important to limit the use of blue-light devices before going to bed to maintain eye health. Add fish to meals Age-related macular degeneration is less common in people who add fish to their meals. This is because fish like sardines, trout, as well as salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. So, foods rich in omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, increasing the risk of AMD.

Kidney disease is a very common problem that affects most people. Though small in size, the kidneys perform vital functions and play a significant role in the overall health of the body. They filter waste products from the blood and flush them out of the body in the form of urine. To keep the kidneys in good health and to keep kidney disease away, consider adding these foods to one’s daily meal plans. Green leafy vegetables : Kale and spinach are full of essential minerals and vitamins that help support kidney function and overall health. These vegetables contain vitamins C, A, and K. They are also rich in carotenoids and flavonoids. They have anticancer effects and give an extra boost to immunity. Apples : They help reduce bad cholesterol, protect from heart disease, prevent constipation, and alleviate the risk of cancer. Apples are a rich source of fiber and anti-inflammatory compounds. Since apples are versatile, they can be consumed raw, in baked form, and as juice or vinegar. Garlic : A good source of vitamin C, manganese, and vitamin B6. Garlic also has anti-inflammatory properties and adds flavor to dishes. Berries : Blueberries and strawberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. These also have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous effects on the body. Berries play an important role in keeping any kidney disease at a distance. The other kinds of berries include cherries, cranberries, raspberries, and more. Cauliflower : A good source of nutrients, cauliflower helps in keeping kidney disease at bay. It is full of anti-inflammatory compounds such as indoles. It is also a rich source of vitamins C, K, and B folate. One can also consume mashed cauliflower in place of potatoes as a low-potassium side dish. Sweet potatoes : They are also similar to white potatoes but rich in fiber and help maintain insulin levels.

It is a known fact that too much sugar can be devastating for your health. When blood sugar is high, the body produces more insulin, which can lead to several health complications, including prediabetes and diabetes. So, you must cut down on sugar. Choosing healthy snacks and increasing fiber and probiotic intake can help. Moreover, regular exercise is essential. Here are a few tips to lower sugar intake and manage blood sugar levels naturally. Avoid carbohydrates A high intake of carbohydrates has a substantial impact on blood sugar levels. The body breaks down carbohydrates into sugars like glucose, which enters the blood. While the body requires glucose for energy, an excess can be harmful. As the amount of glucose increases, so does the amount of insulin produced by the body, leading to a greater risk of lifestyle disorders. Some foods with an abundance of carbs to stay away from are potato chips and donuts. Control your portion size If you are dealing with frequent blood sugar spikes, monitoring portion size can help. When you eat a large meal, blood glucose increases suddenly. To avoid this, eat smaller meals. You can opt for five to six small meals per day instead of two or three large ones. Use smaller plates, eat slowly, avoid going to restaurants, and keep a food journal. This will not only help manage high blood sugar but also reduce calorie intake, which has several benefits. Consider foods rich in fiber Fiber helps slow the digestion of carbohydrates and sugar absorption, gradually controlling blood sugar. Unsurprisingly, many people with type 1 diabetes can manage their condition better by including more fiber in their meals. Some foods high in fiber are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. However, remember that too much fiber can also be a problem. Speak with a doctor to determine the right amount based on your condition.

Eczema is a common skin condition in the country. You may find the symptoms challenging to manage and alleviate without proper knowledge. The common symptoms include thick, scaly patches of raised bumps in the affected area. Understanding eczema triggers may help you handle it better. Therefore, consulting a dermatologist regarding your queries may prove beneficial. So, let’s read further about what exactly eczema is and how it can be managed by resorting to natural home remedies. What is Eczema? Eczema is a skin condition causing red, itchy, and long-lasting skin rash. Red patches can appear anywhere on the body during an eczema flare-up, including the feet, hands, ankles, thighs, cheeks, forehead, and neck. As anyone with a skin disease like eczema will attest, the condition is irritating, painful, and itchy. However, if you follow a healthy lifestyle, unpleasant symptoms may typically improve with time. What eczema looks like on different skin tones Eczema symptoms may appear different on different skin tones. For example, lighter skin tones may typically experience inflamed, red, and spotted dark pink patches, termed hyperpigmentation. On the other hand, darker skin tones may experience violet, dark brown, or ashy grey patches. As the skin heals from eczema, it may become lighter, a condition known as hypopigmentation. Which body parts does eczema affect? Did you know that the eczema-affected areas of the body may be different at different ages? Typical locations of eczema in infants and young children include: The face The exterior portion of the elbows Knees Symptoms in older children and adults are visible in the following locations: Fingers and toes Arms The back of the knees Elbow folds Even though you notice eczema symptoms as an adult, you may have had it since you were an infant or young child. This is because most symptoms emerge during the initial years of childhood.

Around 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide suffer from eczema. While this skin disease has no permanent cure, one can manage it and reduce its symptoms significantly to improve their quality of life. One helpful way to control eczema flare-ups is to use supplements like vitamins, probiotics, and minerals. Read on to learn more about this health disorder and the supplements that may aid in managing it better. What is eczema? Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin disease that affects millions of people in the country. Its signs and symptoms include red, itchy, inflamed, and sometimes scaly patches on the skin. In most cases, one can manage the disorder with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers like pollen. Stress may also need to be addressed, as it can aggravate eczema. Further, following a proper skincare regimen, including moisturizing regularly and using suitable laundry detergents, can help alleviate the symptoms. Supplements to help manage eczema Consulting a healthcare professional familiar with the condition is a great first step toward mitigating the discomfort caused by eczema. Depending on one’s symptoms, the doctor might recommend suitable lifestyle changes, treatments, and even supplements that could lessen the symptoms of this skin disease and help manage it: Vitamin D When the skin is exposed to the sun, it absorbs vitamin D, sometimes referred to as the sunshine vitamin. Several foods like milk, mushrooms, and orange juice naturally contain vitamin D. Alternate sources are vitamin D supplements. According to certain studies, vitamin D may help treat eczema or related skin diseases. A specific research study indicates that the vitamin may reduce inflammation-related indicators, which may help treat inflammatory disorders and skin diseases like eczema. Vitamin E Many skincare products contain vitamin E, an essential nutrient for the body. A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E can increase collagen levels in the skin, helping reduce the signs of eczema and preventing flares.

Are you constantly driven to scratch your skin due to an annoying itch? Do you feel helpless against the urge no matter how much lotion or cream you apply? Itchy skin can be incredibly irritating, but fortunately, it’s also a widespread problem, often associated with skin diseases. In this blog post, we look at some of the most common triggers that cause itchy skin and the steps to minimize them to alleviate the symptoms. Eight common triggers of itchy skin Excessive sun exposure Excessive sun exposure can cause the skin to become itchy and inflamed due to the higher amounts of UV radiation. Those with susceptible skin may find that small doses of sunshine are uncomfortable and lead to breakouts, itching, and a prickly sensation. Not only is this bothersome, but it can also be potentially dangerous since people may be more likely to scratch or rub at the affected area and further damage their skin. Many studies have found cancer patients complaining of itchy skin after radiation therapy using UVR. Hence, the studies conclude that UV rays from sunlight cause itchy skin. Therefore, it is advised to use antihistamines, sunscreens, and emollient creams. To reduce itchy skin from sun exposure, one should use sunscreen with high SPF protection and limit their time outside when possible. Additionally, topical ointments or wipes may temporarily relieve sun-exposed skin irritations or diseases. Age Itchy skin and certain skin diseases like eczema can be annoying and uncomfortable, but it is even more common with age. As you age, your skin undergoes multiple changes, like becoming dry or being impacted by skin diseases like eczema or psoriasis. As we grow older, our bodies produce fewer lipids to retain moisture in our skin, leading to lower hydration levels and causing barrier disruption. In addition, it triggers inflammatory responses like itching or flaking and intense sensitivity.

Are you struggling with eczema flare-ups? Do the dry, itchy patches on your skin keep you from living an active lifestyle? Skin diseases and conditions like eczema can be uncomfortable and often embarrassing, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. This article will share some simple strategies for minimizing discomfort and living life to its fullest despite having eczema. Read on to learn more about managing your daily skincare routine and other helpful tips. Common symptoms of eczema Tiny bumps on the skin Dry and scaly skin Itchy rashes Dark under eyes Redness and swollen skin Lifestyle changes that can alleviate eczema symptoms While nothing can eliminate the symptoms of skin diseases like atopic dermatitis (AD) or eczema, they can be alleviated to a certain extent. Dermatologists propose the following simple changes to improve the situation: Take lukewarm showers with mild soaps Short, rapid showers with unscented soaps and moisturizing twice daily immediately after the shower might be enough for mild cases of eczema. Gentle soaps are recommended while taking a bath or washing hands in the kitchen. Use products without alcohol, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), as they prevent skin dehydration. Additionally, avoid artificial fragrances because they include chemicals that can irritate the skin. Consider taking a disinfecting bath Due to their susceptibility to infections, people with skin diseases like eczema may benefit from bleach baths that mimic those in a chlorinated pool. Add a half cap of bleach to the water once or twice a week and soak for 10 minutes. A cup of vinegar added to a full tub of water may help the bactericidal effect (of killing bacteria) on the skin without causing harm. However, according to the National Eczema Association, anybody with bleach sensitivity or allergic asthma should consult their doctor before doing this.