5 elimination meal plans to identify and curb food allergies
health

5 elimination meal plans to identify and curb food allergies

Some people suffer from food allergies very often because they don’t know how to identify their trigger foods. Here’s where an elimination meal plan can help. A food elimination meal plan enables individuals to assess if they’re sensitive to one or more ingredients in their everyday meals. It usually requires the patient to stop eating suspicious foods and then reintroduce them gradually. Here are five food elimination plans that might help identify food allergies. Basic elimination This meal plan requires individuals to eliminate gluten-based foods and dairy products from their nutrition regimen. The healthcare expert may tell the patient to reintroduce one or both of these if there’s no change during the exclusion phase. However, people with celiac disease may need to avoid these food items permanently to manage their allergies. Full elimination A complete elimination plan excludes shellfish, eggs, corn, soy, soy products, and tree nuts from meals. The foods are systematically reintroduced to the body to narrow down potential allergies. Besides allergies, the method may help diagnose food intolerance. Nightshade elimination Nightshade elimination requires patients to exclude foods from the nightshade family, including white potatoes, tomatoes, goji berries, paprika, eggplant, chili peppers, and bell peppers. While most of these foods offer multiple health benefits, someone intolerant to nightshade fruits and vegetables may suffer from food allergies.
3 warning signs of deep vein thrombosis
health

3 warning signs of deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a disorder that develops when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. People with the condition experience leg pain and swelling. Doctors may recommend prescription options, compression stockings, or surgery as treatment options. Although treatable, the disorder can lead to serious complications if it remains undetected. So, here are a few warning signs of DVT: Swelling Swelling, the most common warning sign of DVT, affects approximately 70% of patients. If the DVT develops in the thigh or calf, the swelling is limited to the area of the blood clot. However, if the clot develops in the pelvic region, both legs may have significant swelling. Leg pain About 50% of people with DVT experience leg pain. The pain can be moderate to severe and is independent of the size of the blood clot. The pain here, which may feel more like a cramp, is usually felt in the calf muscles or along the vein as it travels down the inner thigh. Changes in skin The skin around the affected area may appear red or discolored. Additionally, the region may feel warmer than the rest of the body.
6 foods that help relieve bunions
health

6 foods that help relieve bunions

A bunion is a bony bump at the intersection of the big toe and the foot. It usually develops when constant pressure is applied to the big toe, causing it to push against the second toe. Individuals with bunions experience intermittent pain in the affected area and restricted mobility of the big toe. Besides seeking treatment and practicing natural remedies, adding certain foods to the meal plan can help control bunion symptoms better. Garlic Garlic contains high levels of diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate the symptoms of joint and muscle inflammation. Using up to two cloves of garlic in meals every day may be highly beneficial in controlling bunion symptoms. Berries Berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation. Consequently, they may relieve bunion symptoms. Patients may eat these fruits directly or add them to muesli, oatmeal, porridge, or fresh fruit juices and smoothies. Turmeric Curcumin in turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help regulate bunion symptoms. Many studies also demonstrate the role of curcumin in reducing joint pain and promoting bone and joint health. Turmeric may be added to stir-fries, soups, and smoothies not only for health purposes but also for natural flavor enhancement.
3 ways to get rid of bunions without surgery
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3 ways to get rid of bunions without surgery

Bunions or hallux valgus is a condition in which a bulge develops on the side of the foot along the joint of the big toe. This happens due to the wrong alignment of the bones and muscles surrounding the joint, leading to this bump. Bunions are very common and affect one in every third of individuals in the country; however, there are ways to handle pain without surgery. Here’s how. Hot and cold therapy This is a great way to manage the pain caused by bunions. These are natural treatments with no side effects and can easily be administered in the comfort of your home. Here’s what you need to know – when the bunions are swollen, you should apply cold therapy, like soaking your bunion in cold water to help reduce the inflammation. Cold therapy helps constrict the blood vessels, which is helpful. The cool water will also help relieve the foot, which has been irritated because of the bunion swelling. Heat therapies are helpful when the blood vessels don’t need constricting but need better blood flow and help relax the sore muscles and joints. Heat therapy should be applied if soreness and cramping are the pain symptoms in the bunion-affected area.
4 smoothies to keep common cold and flu at bay
health

4 smoothies to keep common cold and flu at bay

Smoothies are so much more than just refreshment drinks, with their long list of health benefits almost always overlooked. One can concoct delicious smoothies for uses as varied as keeping the immune system healthy or strengthening one’s bones. In the cold and flu season, certain smoothies can help prevent the onset if consumed regularly. And the best part? The smoothies listed here are incredibly easy to make with daily groceries. Green tea and pineapple smoothie The first anti-flu smoothie combines an unlikely pair of green tea and pineapple to optimize the consumer’s health during the winter when most people are down with a cold or fever. To make this, one has to blend two cups of freshly-cut peeled pineapple slices, a tablespoon of honey, a cup of crushed ice, a cup of green tea made using loose leaves, and a finely chopped half ginger. One can serve this smoothie after decorating it with several different garnish combinations. Cold buster green smoothie As its name suggests, this smoothie contains loads of leafy green vegetables. To make this drink, one needs to blend 2 cups of spinach, three baby carrots, a banana, half an orange after peeling it, a cup of orange juice, half an apple slice, half a cup of ice, and half a cup of frozen pineapple.
5 tips to manage the side effects of an IUD
health

5 tips to manage the side effects of an IUD

An intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective and practical method of contraception used by many women across the world. However, some may experience side effects like irregular bleeding, cramping, and hormonal fluctuations. Although these reactions are usually brief and temporary, they can cause discomfort and uneasiness. In this article, we’ll offer five tips to tackle IUD side effects. If a side effect lasts for an unusually long time, one should speak to a doctor immediately. Use heat therapy If one is experiencing intense cramping or backaches after inserting an IUD, they can try using a heating pad. Using heat can help relax and increase the blood flow to the muscles that contribute to cramping, thus reducing any painful sensation. Although this method can be comforting, one should avoid hot baths for 24-48 hours after insertion, as it may cause IUD expulsion. Give your body time to adjust Giving yourself some time allows your body to adjust and make changes for transitioning to a new method of contraception. It’s normal for the body to get used to a new method like an IUD. During this period, a woman may experience mild side effects like bleeding, cramping, or discomfort. Generally, the body can take roughly six to eight months to completely adjust to an IUD.
5 food elimination plans for allergies
health

5 food elimination plans for allergies

Food allergies are unpredictable and can have mild to severe symptoms, such as bumps, rashes, choking, or breathing difficulties. One approach to managing food allergies is through adopting an elimination meal plan. This plan involves temporarily removing certain foods from your regime to identify which ones are causing your symptoms. There are several types of food-elimination nutrition plans for allergies. This article will discuss the most common ones that are used by individuals. Food elimination nutrition plans for allergies Traditional elimination plan The traditional elimination meal plan involves removing common allergenic foods from your meals for a while, typically for two to four weeks. These foods often include dairy, soy, wheat, corn, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. After this period, one food is reintroduced, and any reactions are noted. Then, you repeat the same for other foods. The traditional elimination nutrition plan is typically used for people with conditions such as eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), which is caused by an allergic reaction to certain foods. This condition may manifest as chest pain, heartburn, abdominal pain, vomiting, trouble swallowing, and stunted growth in children. Modified elimination plan The modified elimination plan is similar to the traditional one but more restrictive.
Blood clots – Signs and foods to eat
health

Blood clots – Signs and foods to eat

The human body has a complex network of veins and arteries that transport blood to different parts. It is a crucial function because blood contains oxygen and essential nutrients to keep a person healthy. Sometimes, clots can form in the veins and arteries, restricting blood flow and leading to severe complications. When this happens, doctors may recommend treatments, foods, and lifestyle changes to eliminate such clots and improve blood circulation. Signs of blood clots Identifying blood clots in time is vital to prevent the condition from worsening. Here are the signs to look out for: Swelling A swelling in the legs, arms, or other body parts that does not go away may be a sign of a blood clot. Pain or tenderness Pain or tenderness in the affected area may also be a warning sign. The pain may be localized or spread over a larger area. Warmth or redness Blood clots can cause warmth or redness in the affected area, which should not be ignored. Shortness of breath Blood clots in the lungs may cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing. Dizziness or confusion Clots in the brain can cause dizziness, confusion, and difficulty speaking or understanding. Foods to manage blood clots Besides using the proper treatment, one may add the following foods to their meals to manage the condition after consulting a health expert:
10 signs indicating the need for dental implants
health

10 signs indicating the need for dental implants

One of the first things people notice in individuals is their smiles. However, the quality of one’s teeth can deteriorate due to multiple reasons. But, innovation in oral healthcare has helped one find solutions to almost every issue. For example, dental implants serve as a root for missing teeth, onto which orthodontists implant fixed or removable artificial teeth. Here are ten times dental implants become necessary and help one regain lost teeth function. Broken teeth One of the most obvious signs is broken teeth or chipping, which can ruin the overall appearance of one’s teeth and also affect confidence levels. Since teeth stop growing after a certain age, the broken tooth can be replaced only with artificial veneer. Tooth infection A bad infection can degrade the roots and gums, causing the tooth to fall out prematurely. Dental implants can be used to fill in this gap. Speech impairment Misaligned teeth cause speech impairment as it becomes difficult to enunciate certain words. Implants can fix this problem easily to overcome slurring, whistling, and improper pronunciation. Trouble chewing The upper and lower set of teeth work together to bite down on foods. However, misaligned and damaged teeth can affect this action. Here, dental implants can help align the teeth properly.
7 activities to help to strengthen the lungs
health

7 activities to help to strengthen the lungs

Your lungs play a crucial role in delivering oxygen to the rest of your body. Therefore, poor lung function can lead to several health problems, including respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular diseases. The good news is that health experts have compiled a list of seven activities that help strengthen the lungs. These don’t require a lot of time, energy, or money. So, read on to know the secret to healthy lungs! Exercise regularly Regular exercise is one of the best activities that help strengthen the lungs, for example; aerobics increase lung capacity and improve lung function. Staying active can be as simple as going for a walk or a bike ride. Eat healthily A healthy meal plan is essential for overall health, including lung health. A balanced meal rich in lean protein, fruits, and vegetables, provides essential nutrients that help improve lung function. Practice deep breathing Deep breathing exercises increase lung function and capacity by increasing oxygen intake. They also help to reduce strain and anxiety. Try breathing deeply from the diaphragm instead of shallow breathing from the chest. Keep the air inside your home clean Poor air quality inside your home can cause or worsen lung problems such as asthma and allergies.

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3 river cruises to board in 2022
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3 river cruises to board in 2022

If you are planning to go on a long vacation and would love to relax on a deck overlooking a river, then river cruises are for you. From the mighty Mississippi to the scenic Columbia, you can unwind with comfort and luxury on the country’s many rivers. Here are some of the best river cruises of 2022 that will help you make a memorable trip. America’s Great River by Viking Cruises One of the best river cruises of 2022, Viking Cruise offers a unique opportunity to discover American folk music and learn more about the country’s civil rights movement. This 15-day river cruise spans the Mississippi River, letting you explore historic and beautiful cities such as New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Natchez, Vicksburg, Memphis, and many more. The cruise originates from Louisiana and takes a scenic route up till Minnesota. On this cruise, you can enjoy views of the scenic coastline on the full 360-degree deck and treat yourself to a variety of cuisines. Nashville to Chattanooga (or Reverse) by American Queen Steamboat Company This is a nine-day river cruise that spans the scenic Columbia River. The cruise offers unlimited shore excursions beginning with a hotel stay at Chattanooga, Tennessee. The ship cruises along small river towns and lush landscapes.
5 affordable hotels for a luxurious stay
travel

5 affordable hotels for a luxurious stay

The country is a traveler’s delight as there is a lot that you can see and explore, but before you head out for your next trip, you must make a list of the hotels that you would like to stay in while you travel across the country. Here is a list of best hotels to check out in the country for a luxurious yet affordable stay on your next vacation: Hotel La Croix, Hawaii Hawaii is not exactly a place for tourists who are on a tight budget, and the hotels are quite expensive too. Hotel La Croix, however, is an exception. The three-star hotel that was recently renovated offers an excellent view of the nearby Waikiki Beach and is, arguably, one of the best hotels in the country. The rooms cost less than $150 for a night-long stay and feature a balcony each. The hotel boasts of excellent room service, and all the studios, rooms, and suites are designed with a luxurious touch to help you relax on your holiday. Eagle Ridge, Illinois Eagle Ridge offers most of the services that you would expect to find in a high-end resort, but what’s great is that staying here will not burn a hole in your pocket.
Top 5 hotel booking websites
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Top 5 hotel booking websites

Indeed, booking hotels has become easier than ever. But there’s no denying that the sheer number of booking platforms and offers can overwhelm most travelers. Typically, the best hotel booking sites feature great deals, scores of room options in any given location and allow you to filter your search results based on your preferences.  We’ve listed some excellent hotel booking websites that can help you get a great room at an affordable price. Booking.com This is one of the most popular and reliable hotel booking websites. No matter where you are traveling and what time of the year, you can easily find amazing deals on a wide variety of hotels, apartments, and hostels on the platform. Another advantage is that the website is easy to navigate, filters search results accurately, and the search engine displays total upfront cost (pretax), allowing you to determine what fits into your budget quickly. HotelsCombined HotelsCombined is a top-rated metasearch engine or aggregator, meaning it shows you the best results after comparing listings from hundreds of travel sites in seconds, including top online travel agencies like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, Agoda, and many more. It’s a great platform if you’re looking for something at the lowest possible price.
4 websites for great hotel bookings at affordable prices
travel

4 websites for great hotel bookings at affordable prices

There’s hardly anything more fun than traveling and exploring new places. The excitement of creating an itinerary and the thrill of being on the road is unmatched, but it’s so much better if the “getaway” is well in your budget. Accommodation is an important factor that determines your overall travel expenses, so deals on that front can help you save big. Here are some of the best hotel booking websites to help you compare deals and plan a budget-friendly trip: Priceline Priceline may come across as your regular hotel booking website, but it offers some outstanding features. For instance, it offers amazing discounts through its Express Deals® feature and free cancelation on most hotels to ensure flexibility. Additionally, Priceline offers a generous best-price guarantee and assures a 100% refund of the price difference if you find a lower price within 24 hours of booking. That’s not all! They offer a 200% refund of the price difference if you find a better price on an Express Deal®. Kayak Kayak is one of the top hotel booking sites for comparing deals and is known for its filtering options and map feature. Just click on your destination on the map, and Kayak will give you all the information you need, including stay options.
Top 5 cruise lines for seniors
Senior cruises

Top 5 cruise lines for seniors

Seniors who like going on luxury vacations every now and then probably want nothing more than a cruise trip on their bucket list. Fortunately, many cruise lines cater to senior citizens, offering everything from discounts and offers to wheelchair-accessible rooms. These cruises sail to distant and serene places, be it Alaska, the Caribbean, or a quaint town in Europe. On that note, here are some of the best cruise lines for seniors to check out. Princess Cruises This is one of the best cruise lines for seniors. Their ships are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all passengers to enjoy their trip. Though Princess Cruises sail to many destinations around the world, they are particularly known for their Alaskan cruises, which makes them a great choice for those specifically looking to explore Alaska. They even offer cruise tours that include extended land excursions. Azamara Club Cruise If you prefer to stay for a long time in port during cruise trips, consider Azamara Cruises. Almost all their itineraries have long port stays. They even have medical facilities and onboard physicians. Azamara Cruises sail to beautiful places, such as the Caribbean. Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean International cruises stand out for many reasons.
Explore the majestic Arctic with these 4 luxury cruises
travel

Explore the majestic Arctic with these 4 luxury cruises

Traveling to a destination is one of the best parts of vacationing. While some venture on a road trip or simply take the next flight, others prefer voyaging the seas. With onboard entertainment, luxurious rooms, and breathtaking sea view, traveling to your destination on a cruise can be an exceptional experience. And this experience magnifies when you are traveling to the Arctic. So, here are some of the best luxury cruises to the Arctic. Explore the Polar Region in style Quark Expedition brings to you adventurous yet a luxurious cruise to the Arctic. Their newest polar-class ship – Ultramrine can board two helicopters and 20 quick deploy Zodiacs for a closer interaction with the Arctic fauna. It also has a spacious viewing deck to witness the intriguing midnight sun. The cruise is a round trip from Longyearbyen to the Arctic circle. Adrenalin-filled Arctic Expedition Lindblad Expeditions is offering an unmatched experience to its customers on a six-to-26-day excursion to the Arctic. The thrilling zodiac rides gives you an opportunity to become an adept photographer to catch a glimpse of the polar bears, multitudes of penguins, seals, and whales surfacing the blue waters. You can also mingle with Svalbard’s local community and experience their rich culture.