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Fight atopic dermatitis with these home remedies
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Fight atopic dermatitis with these home remedies

Atopic dermatitis is a skin disorder that affects nearly 30% of people in the country. This disease causes inflammation in the skin, making it appear dry and itchy. For many people, this chronic condition can seem challenging to manage. However, various home remedies have proven effective in combating this disorder. Keep reading to learn more about some treatments you can use from the comforts of your home to reduce eczema flare-ups. Aloe vera People have used aloe vera for centuries to cure skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Studies indicate that aloe vera gel has many natural benefits, such as strengthening the immune system and helping heal wounds. Aloe vera’s antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help prevent infections in dry, cracked skin. Opt for natural aloe vera gel instead of over-the-counter alternatives to avoid irritating chemicals. Apple cider vinegar People with skin diseases like atopic dermatitis find relief from their symptoms by trying the ancient remedy of apple cider vinegar. According to experts, apple cider vinegar can help manage this condition by helping the skin restore its acidity levels. Applied directly to the affected area or diluted with water and applied through a cotton pad on your skin, apple cider vinegar can help restore balance to troubled skin and reduce inflammation. Colloidal oatmeal Colloidal oatmeal, also known as Avena Sativa, is made from pulverized and cooked oats to extract healing qualities that soothe skin dryness and irritation. It does this by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and absorbing moisture to protect the delicate skin. Colloidal oatmeal also has cleansing properties that help clear away excess oils and debris from the affected area without removing the necessary oils needed for healthy skin. Coconut oil Its unique combination of vitamin E and fatty acids can provide hydration while creating a barrier against further irritation and potential infection.
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5 common eczema triggers to avoid
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5 common eczema triggers to avoid

Certain habits like constant itching, hot baths, and consuming eczema-triggering foods may worsen skin diseases like eczema. These triggers may vary from individual to individual and case to case. Additionally, wearing synthetic fibers, using deodorants with artificial fragrances, and lack of proper personal hygiene may also worsen eczema and related skin diseases. Read ahead to find out the common types and habits to work on for improvement in eczema symptoms. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that causes dryness, itching, rashes, scaly areas, blisters, and skin infections. It is not contagious and may have several causes. Both hereditary and environmental factors are most likely to be responsible. Though there is no certain cure for a skin disease like eczema, an improved lifestyle may help alleviate symptoms over time. Common types of eczema Atopic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common type of eczema, causes itchy, recurrent rashes, usually appearing by age five, and symptoms are overly dry skin to itchy rashes. Contact dermatitis Touch or contact dermatitis is an itchy, allergic rash caused by direct contact with a skin-irritating chemical. Cosmetics, artificial fragrances, and jewelry might cause this reaction. Dyshidrotic eczema Dyshidrotic eczema causes a fast rash of small, painful blisters on your palms, fingers, feet, or toes. Neurodermatitis Neurodermatitis causes itching rashes. Scratching makes the skin thick and leathery. Though not life-threatening, the itching can disrupt sleep. Seborrheic eczema Seborrheic eczema is a common, curable, and noncontagious skin condition causing itchy red patches, oily scales, and white or yellow dry/powdery scalp flakes. Stasis dermatitis Venous stasis dermatitis occurs when blood can’t flow freely through the veins, typically in the lower legs. It is a result of moisture and pressure build-up. Nummular eczema Nummular eczema, which causes coin-shaped skin spots, causes itchy, irritated patches which might be crusty or discharge clear fluid.
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease occurs when there is a gradual failure of kidney function due to illnesses, genetics, etc. The kidneys’ main role is to filter waste matter and flush out excess bodily fluids, but advanced kidney failure causes fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in the body. Various factors must be understood to manage the condition, including the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and more. Read on to learn more about chronic kidney disease. Causes of chronic kidney disease The main causes of chronic kidney disease are as follows: Diabetes When the body’s sugar levels are too high and become unmanageable, bodily organs stop functioning as normal. The first to be affected are the kidneys, leading to diabetes, which, in turn, affects the nerves, eyes, and heart. High blood pressure This is when blood pressure against the walls of the blood vessels increases, and can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Hence, chronic kidney disease can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure. Genetics Chronic kidney disease can also be passed down through the genes. Therefore if someone in your close family has the condition, it is likely to be passed down to you. Autoimmune disease Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling of the small blood vessels, which are responsible for flushing waste out of the kidneys. Birth disorder Sometimes, certain malfunctions of the kidneys develop in the mother’s womb and can cause infections and kidney damage later on in the person’s life. Other causes Kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage or failure if not treated in time. Glomerulonephritis It is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in the filtering segments of the kidneys. This disorder is one of the most common types of kidney disease. Vesicoureteral reflux This is a condition that causes urine to back up into the kidneys.
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Avoid these 5 foods for a healthy skin
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Avoid these 5 foods for a healthy skin

Eating right and exercising regularly are well-known contributors to a healthy body. However, you must realize that food choices are essential to get the healthy skin they desire. Do you know that certain food items that appear healthy can cause long-term damage to your skin? Consuming sugary treats and fatty oils can significantly impact your skin. Discover which food items from your meal plan need to be replaced with healthy alternatives. Five foods to avoid for healthier skin Excessively sugary drinks and snacks Excessive sugar intake can trigger inflammation, drying the skin and making it dull and wrinkled. The sugar molecules get attached to collagen and elastin fibers of the skin, breaking them down and decreasing elasticity. As a result, the skin no longer looks smooth or feels healthy. Not only does excessive sugar consumption cause premature skin aging, but it also results in skin diseases or conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The body’s insulin levels increase the growth of bacteria when it digests excess sugars. It, in turn, can cause flare-ups of skin conditions and further damage the skin (dryness, itchiness, and darkening). Moreover, consuming large amounts of sweets (or overeating) leads to an unhealthy BMI, resulting in more wrinkles and saggy skin. You can keep your skin youthful by swapping sugary snacks with healthier binging alternatives, such as nuts, fruits, and seeds (quinoa or legumes). Refined oils (especially canola oil) The primary reason to avoid canola oil (or any refined oil) is excessive trans fats. Trans fats can cause inflammation and weaken your skin, affecting its structural integrity through loss of muscle tone, sagging skin, or causing aging signs (wrinkles, fine lines, etc.) Refined oils like canola oil are easily oxidized due to their high polyunsaturated fatty acid content. When fats are oxidized (due to exposure to heat, light, and oxygen), they form toxic compounds like aldehydes that can accumulate in the body, leading to inflammation and skin diseases like psoriasis.
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Types and costs of dental implants
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Types and costs of dental implants

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots composed of titanium alloy. These versatile prosthetics provide functional benefits such as chewing, fluent speech, and an improved natural-looking smile. Effective and long-lasting implant surgery requires professional guidance. A single-tooth implant costs range from $1,000 to $4,000 and may vary based on one’s location and implant type. Read on to learn more about the types of implants and the associated treatment costs. Need for dental implants As discussed above, dental implants help restore oral health without damaging healthy teeth. Furthermore, they help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration in the absence of teeth. One may need a tooth replacement if one: Has a missing tooth or multiple teeth due to injury, disease, or genetics Has lost a significant amount of jawbone due to a gum disease Has ill-fitting dentures Dental implants may also provide psychological benefits: A full smile with well-aligned teeth can boost confidence while interacting with others. It boosts overall well-being and emotional health as one can enjoy a healthy meal plan and lifestyle. Steps of a dental implant procedure Extraction of the damaged tooth Bone grafting (a surgical procedure to repair damaged bone using transplanted bone, usually taking a few months to heal) Cutting the gums (to expose the bone) and drilling into it Placing an implant Osseointegration (a process where the transplanted bone bonds with the implant, which may take several months to ensure a sturdy base for the dental crown) Abutment placement (fixing a metal base on the implant to keep it in place) Crown fixing (placing a dental crown on the abutment when the implants become strong enough to chew food) The root structure of implants is titanium, which is biocompatible with human tissue. The titanium oxide layer helps to protect the implants from bacteria, reducing the risk of implant failure or infection.
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How to prepare for a dental implant
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How to prepare for a dental implant

Today, improved technology has made dental implant surgeries easier and relatively painless. However, it is natural to be a little anxious before any such procedure. To clear your mind beforehand, you can consult your dentist and discuss your queries. Always disclose your complete oral history to the dentist so they know what to be prepared for. In addition, you must know how you can prepare for dental implant surgery, especially if it’s your first time. What are dental implants? Dental implants are titanium screw-shaped artificial tooth roots. They replace the natural root of a missing tooth. The implants must be placed in the jawbone, so minor oral surgery is required to attach them correctly. Getting dental implants requires a progressive series of appointments. This includes consultation, placement of implants, and placement of crowns. Once the surgery is over, the dentist may also schedule follow up appointments. A dental implant replaces one or more permanent teeth lost due to an injury, gum disease, tooth decay, or infection. During your initial meeting with your dentist, they may discuss different options for replacing your teeth. Dentures and bridges are examples of these alternatives. Dental implants – Procedure, preparation, and tips Before you proceed with a dental implant operation, consider the following tips. Choose a date for a dental exam A visual inspection of your mouth, x-rays, and a review of your health records may be part of your dental examination. With this information, your dentist will create a dental implant process plan, taking unique factors into account, like the cause of the missing tooth, oral health, any possible allergies, and so on, based on your health. They will go over their plan with you so that you know what to expect at each stage. This is a good time to inquire about the procedure’s date, expense, and the number of sessions needed.
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Type 2 diabetes – 9 early signs to be aware of
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Type 2 diabetes – 9 early signs to be aware of

Anyone who has type 2 diabetes or has someone suffering from it knows that it can be a life-altering condition. What’s even more alarming is that many people may not recognize the symptoms (like excessive hunger and fatigue) until it’s too late. This blog post will explore some of the significant signs of type 2 diabetes to look out for. We will also discuss the preventative measures to control high blood sugar. What is type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is a health condition usually resulting from high blood sugar levels in the body. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it produces effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. As diabetes is a progressive disease, those afflicted must regularly observe their blood sugar levels to stay healthy. They may also consult a nutritionist and receive a suitable prescription. Getting the right treatment necessitates identifying the symptoms of diabetes (or high blood sugar). The symptoms may be subtle or harmless, like increased thirst and hunger. However, persistent symptoms, such as fatigue and vision problems, must be checked. Early signs of type 2 diabetes that should not be ignored The sooner a person identifies the symptoms of high blood sugar, the sooner one can build a treatment plan to follow for a healthy life. Here are the 9 common early signs and symptoms that will help you recognize the onset of type 2 diabetes and control high blood sugar. Frequent urination People with type 2 diabetes often experience polyuria or an increased need for urination. It’s caused by the inability of their kidneys to filter blood and transport glucose back into the bloodstream. The surplus of glucose can’t be reabsorbed in the blood, which forces additional water out. It may require frequent bathroom visits.
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9 popular teeth whitening products to check out
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9 popular teeth whitening products to check out

Beverages like coffee, tea, juice, and sugary foods can take a toll on a person’s oral health. They leave behind stubborn yellow stains on the teeth, a condition known as teeth discoloration. Brushing your teeth and going for periodic dental check-ups may not be sufficient to eliminate these stains. This is where whitening toothpaste and whitening kits come into play. Read on to learn about the best options and how they keep your teeth safe. Why consider teeth whitening products? Teeth whitening products are great for improving the shine of your teeth. Many people use them, thanks to their easy availability and cost-effectiveness. These products use unique techniques to improve the appearance of the teeth, such as gel trays, teeth whitening strips, and even whitening toothpaste with special formulas. As a result, achieving a bright smile and preventing teeth damage is now easy. Two common ingredients in teeth whitening products are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. They minimize or eliminate the appearance of stains and discoloration of your teeth. Best teeth whitening products We have listed the best teeth whitening toothpaste, kits, and products below. Remember that most of these work best on clean tooth enamel surfaces, free of debris. So, brush and floss your teeth before using them and enjoy a dazzling smile. Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder If you are looking for a natural and sustainable alternative to the chemical whitening process, consider Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder. The product has three major ingredients: charcoal powder, bentonite, and orange seed oil. The charcoal content pulls out tough stains, while the unique clay bentonite helps remineralize your teeth. To top it off, orange seed oil provides anti-inflammatory benefits while aiding in removing cavities. Apply the powder correctly, and you will see results after a few uses. Rio Smile White Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit Get ready for brighter, whiter teeth with the Rio Simple White Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit!
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8 helpful tips for choosing the right anti-aging products
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8 helpful tips for choosing the right anti-aging products

With an overwhelming range of anti-aging products available in the market, how do you know which ones will improve your skin’s appearance? You must first understand what ingredients work best for different skin types and conditions to reduce wrinkles. For example, you may consider factors like price, product labels, and conducting product patch tests to compare different products. This blog discusses eight valuable tips to help you choose anti-aging products that suit your needs. What are anti-aging products? Anti-aging products include a range of face wash, body wash, toners, serums, moisturizers, body lotions, etc., that help alleviate the physical signs of aging from your body. Anti-aging products are essential to any skincare routine. They are designed to reduce facial wrinkles and improve the appearance of fine lines on the face and neck. These products often contain various natural oils and vitamins, like retinol and collagen, that help keep skin looking younger and refreshed throughout the day. While anti-aging products can’t stop your skin from aging, they can help protect it from further damage by imparting hydration to delicate facial areas. Whether dry or oily skin, an anti-aging product is available to meet your needs. Eight tips for picking the best anti-aging products Pick a sunscreen Common skin aging signs are wrinkles, sun spots, and fine lines. They are caused by dehydrated skin and prolonged sun exposure. To avoid this, apply sunscreen on the skin, even at home. Ensure the following conditions when selecting sunscreen: Look for an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher for protection against UVA and UVB rays (which may cause sunburn). Avoid sunscreens that contain artificial fragrances, harsh chemicals (like PFOA and acrylamide), alcohol, or preservatives (like parabens) if you have sensitive skin. Recognize your primary concern You should combat one anti-aging concern at a time.
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Managing diabetes – 7 foods to avoid
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Managing diabetes – 7 foods to avoid

Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by excessive levels of blood sugar. It is a severe condition that has to be treated properly to avoid future complications. Making nutritional changes can prove effective to a great extent in managing diabetes. Avoiding certain food items in your daily meal plan can help your body regulate high blood sugar better and stay healthy. Below are some food items that are best avoided for people with diabetes. How do nutritional habits impact diabetes? A healthy, balanced meal plan comprising nutrient-rich foods low in sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods helps you manage diabetes better. People with diabetes must focus on eating whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats like olive oil rather than processed snacks or red meats. Sugar levels in the blood are sourced from carbohydrates taken in by a person. The more carbs eaten, the higher the blood glucose level will be, leading to conditions like diabetes. It necessitates cutting down on certain foods and drinks to keep your sugar in check. However, one must not avoid eating carbs altogether, as they are the body’s primary source of glucose and energy. Instead, eating controlled portions of carbs may help you approach diabetes management healthily. Foods to avoid to manage diabetes Here is a list of food items that are best avoided to keep blood sugar levels in check and keep conditions like diabetes at bay. Dried fruits While whole fruits can be a nutritious addition to your meal, intake of dried fruits can spike your blood sugar levels. These fruits are dried and processed with sugar content to eliminate the bitter taste. For instance, raisins have three times more carbs when compared to grapes. Even if the package mentions the words “no-sugar-added” or “low-sugar,” it is advised to monitor the portion sizes you eat.
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8 Healthy and Filling Snack Ideas for Kids
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8 Healthy and Filling Snack Ideas for Kids

When hunger strikes between meals, it’s important to have healthy and satisfying snacks, especially for growing kids. The stores are flooded with packaged snack options that are tempting and convenient to buy, but most of them contain high sugar levels, empty calories, and add no nutritional value. Instead, one can opt for one of the following snacking options: easy to make, highly flavorful, and provide numerous benefits that boost a child’s development. Crunchy vegetables and hummus Vegetables are another great snack choice, providing essential vitamins and minerals. For example, one can opt for crunchy vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. Pairing them with a healthy dip such as hummus or yogurt-based dressings can make them more appealing to kids and boost their overall health and energy levels. Yogurt Yogurt is a versatile snack packed with calcium, protein, and probiotics. The live bacteria in the product are highly beneficial for digestion. Packed with nutrients, yogurt is a supportive and tasty snack for developing and strengthening kids’ bones. One should choose plain, unsweetened yogurt and add natural sweetness by mixing fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey. One should avoid store-bought sweetened or flavored yogurt since these products contain high sugar levels. Alternatively, one can freeze yogurt in popsicle molds for a refreshing treat during warmer months. Yogurt may not be advisable, however, for infants below twelve months. Popcorn Another healthy choice for a quick snack is popcorn. This fun and crunchy snack can be ideal for movie night or after-school treats as it is nutritious whole grain rich in fiber. It can also help regulate bowel movements and is rich in antioxidants and low in bad cholesterol. One can drizzle some low-fat butter or cheese on top to make it tastier. Avoid adding too many unhealthy toppings.
17 Healthy Foods for Seniors
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17 Healthy Foods for Seniors

To support healthy aging, it is important to prioritize nutrition and lifestyle. Eating well-balanced meals can help one stay energized, get all the nutrients required for performing daily activities, and reduce the risk of chronic health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. On the other hand, malnutrition can weaken the muscles and bones and leave one vulnerable to diseases. To avoid this, here are some healthy foods seniors must eat regularly. Fatty fish Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel are a great source of proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help protect the body from cardiovascular conditions. Seniors must try to add fatty fish to their meals at least two times a week to improve their health. Those who do not enjoy the flavor of fish may also consider omega-3 fish oil supplements. Skinless poultry Skinless poultry, also known as lean meats, is a great source of protein for seniors. Cuts of chicken and turkey can be prepared with herbs and spices as low-sodium meals, especially for seniors with high blood pressure. Eggs Egg whites are also a great source of protein and heart-healthy nutrients for elders. However, the yolks are rich in cholesterol, so, preparing eggs carefully and eating them in moderation can help seniors boost their health. Dairy products Dairy products are a great source of nutrients, especially calcium and vitamin D. Yogurt is an important probiotic that can help protect the gut biome. However, opt for reduced-fat or skimmed milk options to reduce the consumption of unhealthy fats. Also, avoid buying flavored dairy products as these often contain added sugars and preservatives. Walnuts Walnuts are another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, especially for vegans and vegetarians. They are a rich source of fiber and help protect heart health. Almonds Rich in unsaturated fats, almonds can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, making them a healthy snack or additive to meals.
8 Gardening Mistakes and Ways to Avoid Them
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8 Gardening Mistakes and Ways to Avoid Them

Transforming your backyard can be an exciting project. You could create a hangout spot, install sculptures, or even add a garden. However, adding plants to a backyard can require considerable time and effort. If you are taking up gardening for the first time, you do not want to miss key steps that affect the look of the space. So, to help you get started, here are a few gardening mistakes and how to avoid them: Planting excessively You may spend immense amounts of time scrolling through seed catalogs and looking forward to fresh vegetables and sometimes can end up planting too much. A big garden may require a lot of effort and can become overwhelming. So, if you have just taken up gardening, start small. First, shortlist your five favorite vegetables and herbs, and grow them. As you have some success with these plants, introduce new seeds to the space to gradually expand the garden space. Planting too early Seeds require an optimum temperature to sprout and grow. If some seeds thrive in warmer temperatures, the yield may freeze and die if you try to grow them in spring. The seed may also rot without sprouting. So, you must check what climates are suitable for each type before spreading them across the garden. One of the best ways to avoid planting earlier than required is to buy a good soil thermometer and note the usual first and last frost dates in your area to avoid this period for starting a garden. Overlooking the soil type Another mistake to avoid is planting seeds without checking whether the soil is loamy. If your backyard does not have loamy soil—rich in silt, clay, sand, and organic matter—the seeds will get sufficient nourishment, and the saplings may grow weak and perish quickly. So, before you start a garden, ensure you amend the soil to make it ideal for plant growth.