by admin | Jan 1, 2018 | Health Awareness
More than a billion people in the US suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, a type of arthritis condition that causes severe inflammation, pain, and swelling. Apart from medication, there are various ways to deal effectively with its complications. Making small lifestyle changes down to just changing the way you eat, sleep, and exercise can help a great deal to ease the symptoms and improve both the emotional and physical wellbeing.
Physical Activity – Exercise can greatly benefit patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Keeping oneself physically active keeps the joint mobility well maintained, improve sleep, and overall mental health.
Research also shows that with the help of exercise the loss of muscle mass can also be slowed down. Stretching, strengthening and aerobic exercises can help improve the heart health and flexibility of joints and muscles.
Improved Sleep –Rheumatoid arthritis patients can suffer from sleep problems due to stiffness and pain of the joints and lack of proper sleep on a regular basis can worsen the symptoms of the disease. In such cases, sleep medications can assist however it also helps to adapt self-help methods. For example, going to bed at the same time of the day and not watching television. Instead, read while in bed before sleep. Mental activity can lead to not being able to sleep on time. Avoid consuming caffeine during the latter part of the day and also exercise.
Anti-inflammatory Diet –If you have rheumatoid arthritis, it is crucial to take a healthy and nutritious diet. The ideal diet comprises of the right number of calories, minerals, and vitamins to maintain a healthy weight of the body.
Research shows that cold-water fish, like salmon that is rich in omega-3 acids, is highly beneficial in easing the joint pain experienced with rheumatoid arthritis.
An anti-inflammatory diet is highly beneficial, this includes green leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes. Other anti-oxidant foods like strawberries, cherries and blueberries can also help. To include more of omega-3 fats include walnuts, olive oil and flax seeds in your diet.
Managing Flares
During a flare, the inflammation of the joints and the associated pain can become extremely intense. A good step in preventing a possible flare is by adjusting your medications, coordinating with your doctor.
Make sure to have plenty of rest when adding new medications to your routine and ask for help from others with carrying out daily tasks. Take up stress relieving and muscle relaxation practices and exercises. Placing cold or hot packs on the joints suffering from inflammation may also help.
Protect the Joints
Protecting the joints is very important in managing rheumatoid arthritis. When moving and carrying objects use larger joints instead of putting the small joints under stress, like your wrists and hands. For example, when opening a door use your body to push it instead of putting stress on your hands.
Use Assistive Devices
Using assistive devices can help improve your psychological well-being. There are many devices designed to help patients cook, get dressed, write, drive, bathe and carry various other tasks with ease.
Seek Support
When dealing with rheumatoid arthritis, make sure you get plenty of support from others, this can help maintain a positive outlook on life. Sharing your struggle with others can make it easy. Friends and family may be able to assist you with carrying out the daily tasks if you are in need.
by admin | Dec 29, 2017 | Health Awareness
Today, turmeric is seen in everything from teas to supplements. It has also been claimed that turmeric is a miracle spice capable of fighting cancer, inflammation and for detoxifying of the body.
Turmeric has been a huge part of Indian cuisine for thousands of years and folk medicine has used it for centuries to treat indigestion, inflammation, treat wounds and also for arthritis. This is because many see turmeric for its various health-promoting abilities. Studies have shown that turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidant and antibacterial agent. The credit to all these properties goes to its compound known as curcumin. It is also observed to lower down the unhealthy cholesterol levels and increase the healthy HDL levels.
In case of cancer, the compound curcumin is responsible for activating the pathways that cause the cancer cells to die. It is also responsible for blocking out numerous pathways that make the cancer cells to multiply, divide and grow more and more. Turmeric is of great interest to researchers because it specifically targets the cancer cells while leaving out the healthy cells in the body.
For the treatment of inflammation, studies show that curcumin is capable of changing the body’s immune system response and can also block enzymes that are the cause of inflammation because of arthritis, relieving arthritis pain.
With numerous applications and effectiveness of turmeric, researchers are investigating the benefits of turmeric to find out more on its success in treating conditions such as Arthritis, Skin Conditions, Infections, Diabetes, Depression, Bowel Disease, and Cancer.
Turmeric is Not the Only Solution
One reason why the doctors don’t openly prescribe turmeric for various diseases is that although it heals the body, it is not easily digested by the gut. For this reason, it is important to take turmeric in a specific amount and along with another spice like black pepper. Black pepper contains a component called piperine that prevents the gut from breaking down and also promotes absorption.
Is it Safe to Consume Turmeric?
Turmeric is considered safe to be consumed whether it is applied externally to the skin or ingested, however it can also have its side effects. People who take turmeric in high amount also get diarrhea or nausea. Another possible problem can be the contractions of the gallbladder, this can be dangerous for people who have gallbladder stones and diseases. If taken with other medicines turmeric can also interact with them and cause a reaction so it is always best to discuss with your doctor before taking turmeric.
by admin | Dec 27, 2017 | Health Awareness, Parkinson's Disease
Even though there is no specific diet that can treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, one can have a proper and healthy diet that can help improve the overall symptoms. By consuming a lot of vegetables and fruits, one can keep themselves energized. Staying properly hydrated can help deal with the common symptoms like low blood pressure and constipation.
Making changes in the timing of meals can also help the medications affect the body in a better way and avoidance of certain foods can help prevent the side effects.
Dietary Changes That Can Help With Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease:
Having low blood pressure is common with those with Parkinson’s. It is usually a side effect of the medication. Increasing fluid intake and salt in the diet can help increase the blood pressure to normal, however, it should be discussed with a physician. Having small but frequent meals can also help with blood pressure challenges.
A common symptom of Parkinson’s is constipation. An increase in daily fiber consumption diet can help with this problem. Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily is healthy. Starting the day with warm liquids can help stimulate bowel movement and help maintain regularity. Some common sources of fiber are fruits and vegetables, cereals and whole grains.
Medications taken for Parkinson’s usually lead to a difficulty in swallowing food and causes thirst. To avoid this problem, include up to eight glasses of water daily and take sips of water after each bite when eating. Eat food that has sauces and or gravy and butter. You can also ask your doctor to prescribe some artificial saliva producing products.
Muscle cramps are also observed in Parkinson’s patients, especially during night time when the medication usually wears off. Eating yellow mustard that contains turmeric is very beneficial to help. Proper hydration maintenance also prevents cramps.
How to Help Increase Your Appetite?
Having a poor appetite is also another common symptom. Poor appetite can be a result of depression. If so, talk to your doctor to be treated and this will potentially help improve appetite.
Some tips to help increase your appetite are:
- Have small, frequent, but nutritious meals
- Go for a daily walk to stimulate appetite
- Include your favorite foods for more enjoyment
- Consume the high-calorie foods first
- Do not drink beverages prior to a meal or during to avoid feeling full
Antioxidants and What Foods Are Rich with Them?
Antioxidants are highly beneficial. They are responsible for clearing out the free radicals present in the body. Free radicals are basically toxic elements that are formed by sunlight, pollution, smoke and cigarettes. Oxidative stress is caused due these free radicals and it highly associated with Parkinson’s and aging.
A diet that is rich in antioxidants helps reverse cellular damage and oxidative stress. Some examples of these foods are:
- Fruits: Pears, grapes, berries, and apples.
- Vegetables: Kale, artichokes, okra, bell peppers.
- Nuts: Walnuts, hazelnuts, and pecans.
- Legumes: Kidney beans and lentils
- Beverages: Tea and coffee
- Eggs
- Dark chocolate
by admin | Dec 23, 2017 | Health Awareness, Lupus
Reduce Stress to Avoid Flare-Ups
Recent clinical trials show that increased stress can really worsen the symptoms. Effectively managing the stress is highly beneficial to manage with lupus in daily life. One big way to start is by identifying the cause of stress.
Some recommendations to deal with stress are:
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help when your symptoms get worse
- Take up activities that help you stay relaxed and calm
- Take out time for yourself more often during the week
Maintain a Healthy Diet for Your Heart
Research shows that lupus leads to a risk of heart disease. It is important to maintain a diet that is heart healthy. Your diet should incorporate more of:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Protein like fish and poultry
- Whole grains
Getting plenty of calcium and limiting sodium intake in diet is also very beneficial.
Improve Your Sleep
One of the most common symptoms of lupus is chronic fatigue and the worsening of symptoms can really make it hard to fall sleep. It is recommended to get a minimum of 7 hours of sleep and also rest from time to time during the day.
Avoid Too Much Sunlight
Majority of lupus patients have high sensitivity to ultraviolet light. Spending too much time out in the sun can give rise to a flare-up. It is also observed that lupus medications can heighten the body’s sensitivity UV light. It is essential to wear a sunblock when going out in the sun.
Exercise More
Lupus affects the joints of the body and exercising on a regular basis is a great way to keep the joints healthy, promote stronger muscles, avoid stiffness, control weight and also help control fatigue.
Make sure to consult with a doctor prior to any exercise routines as some specific exercises can cause swollen joints and pain.
Exercise also improves your mental health. Dealing with a condition like lupus often leads to clinical depression. Exercise can help improve the symptoms. Research shows that people who engaged in any kind of simple kind of physical activity had lower levels of depression.
Almost 90% of studies suggest that exercise can reduce fatigue, including exercise in your daily routine can really help with the symptoms of lupus like feeling run-down and sluggish by increasing the body’s energy levels.
Another benefit for increased exercise is improving the side effects caused by medications. Lupus medications have various side effects, most common of which is weight gain. They can also increase your blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol. Taking steroids also increases the appetite.
Below are some tips to exercise safely and under medical advice.
- Take it slow
- Talk to your doctor
- Participate in low impact exercise
- Keep an exercise journal
by admin | Dec 11, 2017 | Health Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis
Holiday season can be a stressful time especially for those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Changes in schedule, travel, and demands of daily routines may add stress that can possibly cause the worsening of symptoms.
Below are some tips offered by health specialists that can help avoid possible disease flares and increase of symptoms.
Set Realistic Expectations
Help set realistic expectations during the merriment that can be easily managed. Avoid activities that are risky and be mindful to not do more activity than what you are normally accustomed to.
Communicate with Family and Friends
Communicate openly on how you are feeling to your friends and family. Some symptoms aren’t visible to them, so it is very important to let them know if you are not doing or feeling well. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Pace Yourself
Fatigue can be an impact for those with MS. Help to prioritize your activities during the holiday season. Set a reminder to take a nap or rest to recharge yourself.
Travel Arrangements
Travel may cause disruption in your eating, medication, and sleeping schedules, so plan carefully. Both air and ground travel can also require special type of arrangements to be available, such as easy access to bathroom. Carry a doctor’s letter that shows your need to use injection medicine while traveling on a plane as the Transportation Security Agents (TSA) may require this confirmation.
Challenging Routines
Normal routine disruptions can be expected and may be troublesome for those with a neurological disorder. Consider the possible complications that can arise due to changes in sleeping and eating routines. Family and friends can help maintain lesser disruptions and stress by asking what normal eating and sleeping routines are and try to provide as close to that schedule as possible.
Emotional Outbursts
Holiday season can be, at times, an emotional time for everyone. Due to neurological issues, some MS patients may have emotional outbursts like sudden crying or laughing. Help educate family and friends what may be happening and that it is ok. It is important for them to feel comfortable and know that these emotional outbursts may be involuntary due to extreme reflexes experienced by the patient.
Manage Coordination
Know your physical limitations and be mindful to not overextend yourself. If you love to cook, but due to your condition are unable to stand steady by the stove or struggle with cutting food due to numbness of hands, then try to participate by reading out the recipe to a family member. If in a new environment, it is helpful for family members to remove clutter and other items that may disrupt movements.
Sensitivity to Temperatures
Temperature sensitivity is another common symptom for those battling MS. Friends and family can help to maintain the temperature of the home so it is not too warm nor too cold. Be sure to stay warm if travelling to a colder environment for the holidays.
by admin | Oct 23, 2017 | Health Awareness
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system of the body causes damage to the CNS, hence any supplement that is responsible for boosting the immune response should be avoided.
In such a case, the dosing is a big factor when it comes to minerals and supplements because the intake of higher doses can be harmful. It is very important for patients of MS to consult with a doctor to properly determine the dose that will be most effective.
BASICS ABOUT VITAMINS AND MINERALS
Vitamins are chemicals that are required by our body for the maintenance of health. Minerals are inorganic substances that also required by the body just like vitamins to stay healthy.
However, it should be considered that intake of too much of certain minerals and vitamins can be dangerous to health so it is very important to talk to the doctor before any supplements are taken.
Vitamins and Minerals for those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
A variety of minerals and vitamins are evaluated to be used for the treatment of MS. The most important of them include vitamins with antioxidant effects like vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium.
Vitamin D: People with MS have increased risk for bone loss, hence the intake of vitamin D for the maintenance of healthy bones is essential. Various studies show that increased levels of Vitamin D in the blood is associated with a decreased chance of developing MS.
Antioxidant Vitamins – Vitamin A, C & E: Intake of antioxidant vitamins like vitamin A, C and E reduce the damage in the body that is caused by free radicals.
Urinary tract infections that are common with people with MS, can be treated by the intake of vitamin C.
Vitamin E which can be found in nuts, vegetable oils and fruits is also responsible for the prevention of oxidative damage of the body.
Vitamin A known commonly as an important vitamin for the eye, sources include eggs, liver and cod liver oil. This vitamin also helps in the promotion of normal cell growth throughout the body.
Vitamin B6: Vitamins B6 supplements are taken to increase energy. Sources of this vitamin include fish, chicken and pork, vegetable and bananas. Care should be taken to not take this vitamin in high dosage because it can cause tingling, numbness and pain.
Vitamin B12: Natural sources of this vitamin include poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products. Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to neurological symptoms of MS however they are only found in a small number of patients.
Selenium: Sources of selenium include seafood, meats, whole grains, dairy products. Selenium has antioxidant effects and its supplementation is useful in the treatment of MS. A study shows the potential of balancing biochemical abnormalities in MS patients with selenium. Another study shows selenium, that contains antioxidant enzymes, is active in reducing oxidized molecules in the body.
Calcium: A proper intake of calcium is important to maintain healthy bones and teeth. It is also responsible for the regulation of various vital processes of the body. People with MS are observed to have an increased risk of bone loss so the intake of an adequate amount of calcium is very crucial.
However, high dosage of calcium can result in toxic effects, to avoid it calcium intake should not exceed 2000 mg per day for people above 50 years of age and 2500 mg for people above 19 years of age.
Zinc: Zinc is used by the body in multiple different processes. Some studies have shown that people who suffer from MS have either low levels of zinc or the opposite. This means that zinc works to activate the immune system but supplementation can worsen the condition. A high intake of zinc can also lead to a copper deficiency.
Another largely experimental treatment for MS is stem cell therapy. Learn more about the potential of stem cells treatment for Multiple Sclerosis here.
Reference: Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements (2015, May)
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