Category Archives: Diet And Food

Over recent years, there has been a growing interest in gluten-free diets to improve psoriasis symptoms.

Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat products, such as bread, pasta, crackers, certain cereals, beer, soups, gravies, and many processed foods. Its also found in some cosmetics and medications (1).

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disorder that affects up to 3% or 7.5 million people in the United States. It usually presents as scaly, discolored, and often painful patches on the skin. It may also affect other areas of the body such as the joints (2).

Interestingly, a 2017 study found that 36% of people with psoriasis followed a gluten-free diet to help with their psoriasis symptoms. Of those who avoided gluten, 53% reported notable improvements in their symptoms (3).

This has intrigued researchers to continue investigating the relationship between psoriasis and gluten. It may also have you wondering if you should follow a gluten-free diet to improve your psoriasis symptoms.

This article dives deep into the relationship between gluten and psoriasis, along with its potential benefits and downsides.

The relationship between gluten and psoriasis isnt clear, but some people report a decrease in symptoms after following a gluten-free diet.

Most research suggests that gluten may worsen psoriasis symptoms in people with a high level of an antibody known as anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA), which is a sign of gluten sensitivity (4).

Antibodies are released when the body is trying to fight a foreign invader, suggesting that in some individuals, gluten results in an immune response (4).

Its quite common for people with psoriasis to have concurrent immune diseases, especially those that relate to the gut or joints. For example, people with psoriasis are at a higher risk of having Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis, and psoriatic arthritis (4, 5).

Further, psoriasis patients are 2.16 times more likely to have celiac disease, which is a condition in which gluten damages the villi of the intestine (6).

Whats more, one study found that 14% of people with psoriasis had high levels of AGA compared with only 5% of the general population (5).

Interestingly, people who dont meet the diagnostic criteria for celiac disease may still have high AGA levels, suggesting that psoriasis patients may have gluten sensitivity in absence of celiac disease (4, 5).

However, one study in 85,185 people found that there was no dose-response relationship between gluten intake and onset of psoriasis, which suggests that gluten does not cause psoriasis. However, they didnt assess a strict gluten-free diet, which is a minor limitation (7).

Therefore, its plausible that gluten may worsen psoriasis symptoms in some individuals with psoriasis who also have high AGA levels. But it does not appear to trigger or be the root cause of psoriasis.

People with psoriasis are more likely to have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Therefore, consuming gluten may worsen symptoms in people with psoriasis that also have a gluten intolerance.

Following a gluten-free diet may reduce psoriasis symptoms in some people, but not all.

Having a gluten sensitivity or allergy may elicit an immune response in the body, which may also simultaneously spur a psoriasis-related immune response (4).

Some studies have shown that those with high AGA levels benefit from a gluten-free diet.

In a 2018 study, researchers analyzed AGA levels in 97 patients with psoriasis, of which 13 people (14%) had high AGA levels. These participants followed a strict gluten-free diet for greater than 12 months (8).

After 12 months, those with very high (>30 U/ml) AGA levels saw an average 56% decrease in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores after following a gluten-free diet. Those with high (11.530.0 U/ml) AGA levels saw an average 36% decrease in scores (8).

A review of 1,408 patients across 87 studies with non-celiac autoimmune diseases (including psoriasis) found that a gluten-free diet helped reduce symptoms in 64.7% of people. One limitation is the study was not exclusive to psoriasis (9).

Older studies have also shown a gluten-free diet to be effective in reducing psoriasis symptoms for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease (10, 11).

In 2018, the medical board for the Psoriasis Foundation reviewed 55 studies to make dietary recommendations for the treatment of psoriasis (12).

The organization gave a weak recommendation for a gluten-free diet to treat psoriasis but noted those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity will benefit from a gluten-free diet from a digestive standpoint (12).

That means any reduction in psoriasis plaques and other symptoms after eliminating gluten can likely be attributed to the management of the digestive condition (12).

Ultimately, people with psoriasis who have a concurrent gluten sensitivity or celiac disease will likely benefit from a gluten-free diet. However, a gluten-free diet is unnecessary for psoriasis patients without gluten sensitivity or celiac disease (13).

Following a gluten-free diet may reduce psoriasis symptoms if the person also has a sensitivity to gluten or celiac disease. However, its unnecessary for those who arent sensitive to gluten.

The only people who need to follow a gluten-free diet are those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. In some cases, people with autoimmune conditions may have a higher likelihood of gluten sensitivity or celiac disease (14).

Though the public perception of gluten has worsened over recent years, most of the claims (e.g., promoting weight loss, decreasing risk of heart disease, improving gut health) surrounding gluten-free diets arent backed by scientific research (14).

In fact, there are numerous downsides to removing gluten from your diet, such as nutrient deficiencies, difficulty purchasing and preparing foods, increased cost, and negative social experiences (14).

A gluten-free diet is very difficult to follow since gluten is found in so many foods, beverages, and over-the-counter products. Therefore, unless you absolutely need to, there is no need to put additional burden on yourself.

If you believe you may have a sensitivity to gluten, its best to work with a healthcare professional to help you ease into an elimination diet so you can safely determine whether removing gluten helps you.

Unless you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, there are no benefits to following a gluten-free diet.

Here are some questions people often ask about the relationship between psoriasis and gluten.

Psoriasis symptoms may worsen with gluten consumption in those with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

However, gluten does not cause psoriasis. Rather, it can trigger an immune response that may worsen psoriasis symptoms, but only in those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

There are many potential triggers that can lead to psoriasis flare-ups, such as stress, illness, environment (e.g., weather), smoking, alcohol, diet, and other lifestyle factors (15).

Not everyone with psoriasis will have the same triggers, so its important to work with a dermatologist or another healthcare provider to identify your individual triggers.

Those with psoriasis are 2.16 times more likely to have celiac disease compared with the general population (6).

Its thought that psoriasis and celiac disease have similar inflammatory and genetic pathways, leading to the development of both conditions (5).

Research suggests that gluten may worsen psoriasis symptoms in people who also have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Following a gluten-free diet may help improve their symptoms.

However, gluten doesnt cause psoriasis, and following a gluten-free diet probably wont improve psoriasis symptoms if you dont have gluten sensitivity.

Considering how difficult it is to follow, its best to avoid a gluten-free diet unless absolutely necessary.

Ultimately, if you suspect you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, talk with a qualified healthcare provider like a registered dietitian. They may recommend you try a gluten-free diet and can offer support as you transition to that eating style.

Originally posted here:
Gluten and Psoriasis: Is There A Link? - Healthline

Randy Jackson hates the word "diet" and refuses to deny himself the odd sweet treat to avoid an emotional binge.

The 65-year-old star - who used to weigh over 350lbs before shedding over 114lbs - underwent gastric bypass surgery following a type 2 diabetes diagnosis almost 20 years ago, and while he admits that the surgery is a "great jump starter", he initially struggled to maintain his weight loss because he started to slip back into old habits.

He said: "It's a great jump starter. You lose a bunch of weight really fast, but maintaining's another thing because you get there and your mind tells you, 'Okay, phew. I'm here now. I can start to party and bring out the cheesecakes. I hate the word diet. I don't use that anymore. Anybody that's lost weight, you lose it and then you start eating and drinking more and it all starts coming back. That's what started happening to me. I was like, 'No, I'm not going to spend my life going through this!'"

The former 'American Idol' judge - who has children Jordan and Zoe with his ex-wife Erika Riker - went on to explain that his relationship with food is "emotional" so he needed "get things together" with his diet, but has managed to find a balance.

He told this week's edition of PEOPLE magazine: "Eating's all emotional. I needed to really get it together so I could keep it off. I eat fish, some sort of veggie and maybe a little handful of rice or potato. If I really feel like I need to have a piece of candy, I have a small piece so that in my mind, I'm not saying, 'No, no, no,'. The more you deny yourself, the more you're going to go on a bender and have 18 candy bars without stopping at some point."

"I think if I had not figured it all out, I would've gained at least half, if not more, of that weight back!"

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Randy Jackson: I hate the word diet | | news-journal.com - Longview News-Journal

The military isnt without its eating disorders.

Recent research has exhibited that the chaotic eating schedules of soldiers have a deleterious impact on their dietary habits, contributing to a rate of disorders (like bulimia, in particular), thats above the American average. Still, even within the military where restrictive eating is common, in order to meet inane fitness requirements soldiers arent skipping meals as called for in the infamous military diet.

Considered one of the most well-known examples of a very-low calorie diet (VLCD), the military diet is a three-day plan meant to help dieters lose 10 pounds in a week or less. It outlines a 1,400-calorie day, a 1,200-calorie day and a 1,100-calorie day, followed by four days of normal consumption. This pattern, proponents say and there are many of them across social media should be repeated on a weekly cycle for a month, or until youre satisfied with your weight loss.

Following the diet doesnt just mean eating shockingly little, though; it also means sampling an extremely small corner of the food pyramid. This is what a sample day looks like (the full slate of proposed meals is ubiquitous online, check it out here):

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Just to be clear, thats the heaviest day. While this diet has absolutely zero affiliation with the military, its likely that the military moniker lends it an air of credence. Fitness buffs, used to trying out special ops-style workouts and the like, perceive this sort of calorie-cutting as another challenge they can defeat for online clout. (The irony, though, is that even if someone were trying to accurately eat like a soldier, that wouldnt be a healthy, sustainable diet, either.)

The military diet is dubious diet, at best, and one that will likely lead to weight gain in the long run. Consider: its impossible to effectively exercise on so few calories. While your weight may drop in the short-term, thats because youre losing water weight and suffering from muscle atrophy, in addition to cutting some fat. And once the normal eating days resume, its difficult not to load up on all the cravings you were denying yourself for the previous three days.

One interesting perspective across the internet? The number of women who say they recognize this diet, and have employed it countless times in their own lives, in order to quickly lose weight. This sort of yo-yo dieting might seem necessary when someone feels like theyve run out of time to look a certain way for a big day, but ultimately, its going to cause the body tons of undue stress.

This isnt to say that calorie-cutting and intermittent fasting arent effective. Both have been linked to longevity. But turning into a monk and eating only grapefruit for three days a week isnt the answer; plugging in a healthy, everyday menu of whole grains, leafy greens, fruits, beans and fish is the best way forward. When in doubt, recall these two quotes: A) Eat colorfully, and B) Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.

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Is the "Military Diet" the Very Worst of the Low-Calorie Diets? - InsideHook

If youre a cheese fan, then chances are you have a lovehate relationship with this sometimes sweet, sometimes salty snack. Youre ready to add it to your favorite dishes, but subtle fears loom as you recall a favorite bloggers new dairy-free lifestyle. Can cheese be part of a dancers meal plan? Lets break it down.

Its no understatement that the nutrient profile of cheese is particularly perfect for dancers. Cheese is rich in protein, making it a powerful part of a recovery snack. Most varieties are also high in calcium, and fortified cheeses are high in vitamin D, offering a BOGO deal for strong bones. Aside from these power players, cheese offers a boost of immune support with nutrients like vitamin A and zinc, and keeps your metabolism fired up with vitamin B12.

Despite a shining nutritional resum, cheese gets a questionable reputation in our culture because its high in fat, particularly saturated fat, which is associated with heart disease. This fear of fat is compounded by systemic fat phobia, which is unfortunately a problem thats exacerbated in the dance industry. The sodium in cheese is also a common red flag for people who are prone to high blood pressure.

Before you opt out of cheesy goodness, consider this: Association does not equal causation, and the research correlating cheese with heart disease was surely not conducted on active dancers. Dancers shouldnt feel stressed or worried about eating cheese. Sprinkle some on your salad, add a slice to your sandwich or try a shredded version atop your pasta. This boost of protein will help to slow carbohydrate metabolism and promote sustained energy levels. As for the fat, it enhances your bodys absorption of key nutrients, like those A and D vitaminsand supports energy balance, hormonal health and satiation. And, by the way, the sodium in cheese is a helpful electrolyte replacement for dancers who are heavy sweaters; when paired with water and crackers, cheese can aid in your bodys overall hydration status.

Youll need to reassess if you have a medically diagnosed dairy allergy or intolerance to lactose. Depending on your personal level of tolerance, a cheesy snack might leave you feeling physically uncomfortable before a performance. Consult with a medical professional for practical alternatives and remedies, like digestive enzymes.

If youre worried that your cheese habit is getting excessive, then consider mindful eating techniques to better assess how much cheese feels good physically. A lack of control might be a sign that your relationship with it needs repairing. An all-or-nothing mindset is a common reason why dancers often feel stuck, and allowing yourself unconditional permission to enjoy cheese is the first step. If youre struggling, reach out to a licensed professional, such as a registered dietitian nutritionist.

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Can Cheese be a Part of a Healthy Dancer's diet? - Dance Magazine

When it comes to eating the right diet for your brain health, experts are still in the process of figuring out exactly what foods do the most good. Scientists have already narrowed down some of the worst contenders. A study published in Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care linked diets filled with sugar to Alzheimer's disease, while eating patterns loaded with trans fats may also lead to Alzheimer's disease, according to a study retrieved from Neurobiology of Aging. While the average person generally knows what to stay away from, few may know that the best foods for your brain health might be right in front of you.

A variety of eating patterns, like the Mediterranean diet or the MIND diet now have the potential to not only keep you eating a balanced nutritional intake, but also help keep your brain sharp as you age and stave off dementia. The specific foods that make up the meal regimens come loaded with particular nutrients that science has now started to embrace as essential components that can naturally ward off brain degradation. By adjusting your eating habits to accommodate a few certain foods, you can potentially keep your mind fit and avoid encountering dementia in your later years.

If you want to pull out all the stops and embrace an eating plan that can give you the best brain health, try out The #1 Best Diet for Dementia for maximum results.

Leafy greens provide a huge amount of nutrients for anyone looking to supercharge their diet. It now looks like this type of produce has the potential to protect your brain from dementia.

According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, scientists scanned the brains of study participants that followed a plant-heavy version of the Mediterranean diet and a regular version of the same eating plan. The researchers found that those who ate a diet rich in greens, among a few other key foods, showed the fewest signs of mental degradation when compared to the other participants.

If you want to tap into this produce and get the most bang for your buck, make sure to include The Best & Worst Greens to EatRanked by Nutritional Benefits into your own diet.

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You have heard a ton of arguments for eating more fish, but now, it looks like omega-3 fatty acids have the potential to keep your brain in top shape. A 2009 study retrieved from PLEFA correlated reduced levels of this key nutrient with mental decline and a higher risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

A separate study published in the Archives of Neurology independently came to the same conclusion after studying a large community group and finding that those who eat more omega-3 fatty acids end up protecting their brain.

Don't think you can take the easy way out and just take supplements either. Another article found in JAMA revealed that omega-3 supplements could not compete with the nutrients absorbed when you eat fish. Don't skimp on this key nutrient next time you hit up your local seafood restaurant. Opt to order one of the 26 Best Omega-3 Foods to Fight Inflammation and Support Heart Health.

You may have heard a ton of arguments supporting the use of coconut oil, walnut oil, and other alternative fats. While these items have their place in the kitchen, you can't go wrong with regular olive oil, especially if you want to keep your brain sharp as you age.

A 2022 study from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology traced 92,000 participants' diets and found that those who ate high amounts of olive oil had a 29% lower risk of dying due to dementia or other neurological diseases when compared to those who didn't usually eat olive oil in their meals. If you ever need an excuse to make your own salad dressing or top off your favorite meal with this oil, just remember that your brain will thank you.

Flavonoids come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, but experts can agree that this nutrient helps stave off brain degeneration. If you want to naturally get more of this compound in your life, you can't go wrong by loading up on colorful fruits and vegetables. A 2021 study found in Neurology followed 77,000 participants over 20 years to study their diets and found that those who ate high concentrations of flavonoids had better neurological health as they age.

Colorful fruits and vegetables naturally contain large amounts of this nutrient, but one particular type of fruit might rank better than many other foods when it comes to protecting you against dementia.

Science is slowly uncovering the truth about berriesthey can stave off cognitive decline better than many other foods. Research conducted in association with Rutgers revealed that berries come packed with antioxidants and flavonoids, and it looks like this type of fruit not only slows down mental aging, it might hold the key to fighting dementia.

The key lies in berries' ability to prevent oxidation and could even negate many of the negatives of a high-fat diet. A separate 2012 study retrieved from the Annals of Neurology also came to the same conclusionthe more berries a person ate, the slower their mental state declined.

Berries do more than just protect your brain. They also rank as The #1 Best Fruit for Your Heart and anyone looking to eat healthy should aim to grab a handful of this fruit next time a craving strikes.

Nuts provide a wealth of nutrition, but it looks like this food now presents one more major benefit. According to a study published in Nutrients, walnuts have a strong link to warding off dementia, depression, and other neurological conditions due to the fact that they prevent inflammation and oxidation.

If you don't like walnuts, you might need to learn to love them. Another study from Advances in Nutrition revealed that mixed nuts don't do the trick, and the only positive correlations between the prevention of cognitive decline and nuts occurred when participants ate walnuts. Another piece of research from The Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging found that nuts, in general, have the potential to help older women stave off mental decline, but just to be safe, make sure you grab a few extra walnuts if you do decide to eat a mixture of this food.

If you want to supercharge your diet and potentially prevent dementia in your later years, digging into more legumes can't hurt. A study found in the Journal of Translational Medicine traced 200 participants in Italy over the age of 65 and found that those who ate higher amounts of beans and pulses ended up scoring better on cognitive health tests.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

If that can't convince you to eat more beans and lentils on a weekly basis, the Secret Side Effects of Eating Beans might just help change your mind and influence the way you enjoy this key food that can help prevent dementia.

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The 7 Eating Habits That May Actually Work to Fight Dementia, Says Science Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

It seems as if when we age, we come with inevitable ailments, which is why it's important to take care of ourselves to ensure we reach our golden years safely, healthily, and happily. For some, it's maintaining a workout routine, for others, it's ensuring a healthy diet, or it's a mix of all of the above. However, it's rare to hear about alcoholic drinks that help people achieve high ages.

It's common to want to unwind with a glass of alcohol after a long day, and it is possible that moderate alcohol consumption can reduce the enormity of a person's response to stress. Nebraska-native Mark Behrends took that to his advantage as he lived to be 110. According to an article posted in TIME, one of the reasons Behrends lived to be that long washis daily can of beer.

Lois Bassinger, Behrend's daughter, was quoted as saying "he always told everybody the reason he has lived so long is drinking one can of beer, every day at 3 p.m."

Red wine is the alcohol typically known for its benefits when enjoyed in moderationand typically enjoyed by the longest living people in the world. However, while a glass of red wine is full of antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, beer is known to have some advantages as well.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

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According to the American Journal of Medicinal Sciences, beer contains more protein and B vitamins than wine. Beer has the equivalent amount of antioxidants as wine, but the specific antioxidants are different because the barley and hops used in the production of beer contain different types of flavonoids (a group of plant metabolites that provide health benefits) compared to red wine.

In research posted by BioFactors, a series of studies using animal models have shown that beer may prevent carcinogenesisthe initiation of cancer formationand osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle.

The research showed that beer provides plasma, which has significant protection from oxidative stress. The beverage also contains isohumulones (the bitter substances derived from hops), which may prevent and improve obesity and type-2 diabetes, improve lipid metabolism, and suppress atherosclerosisa disease of the arteries characterized by the deposition of plaques of fatty material on their inner walls. Moderate beer drinking has also been linked to decreasing cardiovascular risk and overall mortality.

Although beer provides surprising benefits, it's important to remember to drink in moderation, as too much alcohol can correlate to negative effects. You could become dehydrated, gain belly fat, and develop problems such as circulatory issues, ulcers, and diabetes.

Researchers who were published in the Nutrients Journals suggest that an approximate consumption of 10 to 16 grams of alcohol per day, equivalent to one beer for women could be defined as moderate beer drinking. For men, it would be about 20 to 28 grams of alcohol per day, equaling one to two beers. However, the consumption would be distributed throughout the week with no heavy episodic or "binge drinking" on a single occasion, especially during weekends.

It is also suggested that moderate beer drinking should be considered consumed during mealtimes, as the custom in Mediterranean countries.

Pick the perfect can with these 15 Best Light Beers You've Never Heard Of (But Need to Try!)

Kayla Garritano

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The #1 Drink This Man Had Until He Was 110 Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

Your heart is the pump that provides oxygen and nutrients to all the tissues in your body. Keeping it in great shape is key to a healthy life. Following these tips in your daily life can help keep your ticker ticking.

Too much sodium causes you to retain water, according to a small 2017 study. When it does, your heart has to work harder to move the additional fluid through your body. Choose foods labeled as no salt added, try to avoid foods that have more than 400 milligrams of sodium per serving, and try to stay below 1500 milligrams total per day.

Whenever you can, replace salt in your cooking with herbs and spices. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet can also be a helpful way to lower sodium and help take care of your heart.

Saturated fat can lead to atherosclerosis, where hard plaque builds up in your arteries. You can lower your intake by eating low fat cuts of meat, like the eye of round roast or sirloin tip, and avoiding high fat dairy products. Generally speaking, if its greasy, its likely higher in saturated fats.

Unsaturated fats can be heart-healthy by lowering inflammation in your body. Inflammation can lead to heart disease. Heart-healthy fats include vegetable oil, low fat mayonnaise, and oil-based salad dressings.

Following a Mediterranean diet can be a tasty way to bring healthier fats into your diet and lower cholesterol.

Fiber helps you feel fuller and can help lower cholesterol levels. Plus, the Department of Health and Human Services says that high fiber foods are generally healthier, including beans, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Fruits and veggies are packed with nutrients and are lower in calories to help you maintain a moderate weight and reduce inflammation. The more colorful and fresh your choices, the better.

Low fat dairy products are excellent alternatives to high fat ones. Examples include skim milk, low fat yogurt, soy milk, or fat-free cheeses.

Moderate or vigorous activity its your choice how you like to get your exercise in. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Combining both is okay, too.

Engaging in activities that help you build strong muscles, such as lifting weight or using resistance bands, can power your metabolism. This helps you maintain a moderate weight and blood pressure.

Standing, walking, and moving, in general, can be more heart-healthy than constant sitting. If possible, use a standing desk or make efforts to take walk breaks throughout your day. According to the AHA, physical inactivity is linked with greater risks of heart disease and early death. Keep moving!

Smoking can have serious effects on your heart health. If you do smoke, this is a great time to try quitting. If you need help, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to access a 24/hour quitline with resources for quitting smoking.

Exposure to secondhand smoke puts your heart health at risk, too. If someone in your house smokes, ask them to smoke outside. Or better yet, encourage them to quit.

Alcohol in excess can increase your risk of heart disease. Moderation is key. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends not more than 2 drinks per day for most adults.

When you maintain a moderate weight, you arent putting excessive demands on your heart. Talk with your doctor about what a moderate weight is for you given your age, height, and frame.

Visiting a doctor annually (or more often, depending on your health) can help you take a preventive approach to care. If you have conditions known to affect heart health, such as chronic kidney disease or diabetes, make efforts to manage these conditions to improve your overall health. Getting treatment early and following your treatment plan can drastically improve your outlook.

Even if its just for a few minutes, taking time to relax can be beneficial to your overall health. If stress is a part of your everyday life, youre at an increased risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease.

Reaching out to loved ones when you feel stressed can help you receive the support that you need. Sharing your emotions and anxieties can be difficult, but a person who wants the best for you will provide a listening ear. Plus, theyll likely value the chance to understand how they can help you better.

Realistically, you probably will deal with stressful events from time to time. Create a strategy for how you can maintain calm when you do. This may include deep breathing, repeating a calming saying, or prioritizing the tasks at hand. When you prepare for stressful events, youre better able to cope with them.

When you quit smoking, you are already taking action to benefit your heart health.

A 2019 review shows that quitting smoking can lead to weight gain in some individuals. This may have a negative impact on heart health. But quitting smoking is still critically important.

To reap the benefits of quitting smoking and maintaining a moderate weight, try the following tips:

Tip 18: Use medications to help you quit smoking, such as nicotine patches or varenicline (Chantix). These approaches help to keep you from gaining weight while you quit smoking.

Tip 19: Get emotional support from a counselor or trusted friend as you are trying to quit and be healthier. Having psychological support can help you maintain your weight.

Tip 20: Exercise regularly to help maintain a healthy body and moderate weight. Youll likely find that youre able to challenge yourself more physically, as you may cough less after quitting smoking.

Several pregnancy-related disorders, such as preeclampsia and gestational high blood pressure, can increase your risk of heart disease later in life, according to a 2016 study. While these conditions arent always preventable, there are some ways you can help your heart health.

Tip 21: Attend all your recommended prenatal appointments. Your doctor can monitor you for potential complications, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Treating these with medications can help maintain your heart health.

Tip 22: Stay active during pregnancy as long as your doctor says its safe. Staying active will help you maintain a healthy body during pregnancy and relieve some stress.

Tip 23: Follow a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH diet. A 2021 review associated eating this diet during pregnancy with reduced blood pressure.

Tip 24: Avoid high fat and sugary foods during pregnancy. These habits increase your risk of preterm delivery.

Tip 25: Stop smoking if you smoke. Smoking is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for pregnant people and heart health.

A heart attack can be a wake-up call to engage in more heart-healthy measures. Some of the ways you can accomplish this include:

Tip 26: Take your medications as your doctor prescribes every day. Talk with your doctor about side effects you can expect and when you should call if you have concerns.

Tip 27: Participate in cardiac rehabilitation. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities will offer cardiac rehabilitation after a heart attack. This is an approach where you can exercise while wearing a monitor. The monitor helps make sure your heart rate isnt too high while you exercise.

Tip 28: Make an appointment with your primary health professional to get a checkup. During the checkup, they can screen you for other medical conditions that could affect your heart health, like diabetes. Assessing your overall health and taking steps to get healthier can lower your risk of future heart attacks.

Having a condition that limits your mobility can make traditional exercise approaches more challenging, but not impossible. Some low impact exercise tips include:

Tip 29: Try exergaming, as a small 2019 study suggests. This is when you use games or video games that involve movement as a form of exercise. A game that requires movement using controllers, such as bowling or golfing on the Nintendo Wii, can be a fun and engaging way to exercise with lower mobility.

Tip 30: Use a stationary cycling machine for either arms or legs. Even those with lower mobility can often use these exercise machines to enhance heart health.

Researchers are still studying the impacts of COVID-19 on the heart. The AHA says that, just as with the disease itself, some people are more affected than others. Some are experiencing heart tissue inflammation, and doctors are concerned this could lead to heart failure.

Because the connection between COVID-19 and heart health is a subject of emerging research, there arent any specific best practices shown to help people who have heart concerns after COVID-19. Until experts know more, take overall heart-healthy measures, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and refraining from smoking, to ideally have a protective effect.

Most heart health efforts emphasize your overall wellness. This includes lowering stress, eating a heart-healthy diet, and exercising. If you arent sure where to begin, talk with your doctor about ways you can safely improve your heart health.

Read more from the original source:
How to Improve Your Heart Health Quickly and Naturally - Healthline

When you think of healthy greens, algae probably isnt the first thing to spring to mind. So, is seaweed good for you? Absolutely.

Seaweed is a rich source of thyroid-supporting iodine. It also contains minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that could boost heart and digestive health. If youre trying to lose weight, it might help with that, too.

Seaweed refers to all kinds of algae. Here are some common types:

Keep reading for the science-backed benefits of seaweed, plus tips on how to eat more of it.

Seaweed is so nutrient-rich, its basically a superfood. Nutrition can vary by type, but heres the breakdown of 3.5 ounces or 100 grams (g) of raw kelp:

As for the micronutrients?

Seaweed also contains iodine, although the amount varies according to species, location, and the manufacturing process. Dried seaweeds iodine count lands between 16 micrograms (mcg)/g and 2,984 mcg/g. Thats anywhere from 11% to 1,989% of your recommended daily intake.

Seaweed = so much more than a slimy, green beach nuisance! Lets look at the plethora of health perks.

Will a California roll prevent thyroid disease? Probably not. But iodine is essential for healthy thyroid function.

Most adults need about 150 mcg of iodine per day. A deficiency can affect fertility and lead to red flags like exhaustion, neck swelling, and unhealthy changes in weight. But a mere gram of sea moss offers 47 mg of iodine. #Winning

Your body needs antioxidants to stabilize free radicals, the unstable molecules that damage cells and contribute to major health probs.

Seaweed is swimming with antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamins A, C, and E.

Brown seaweed also contains a carotenoid called fucoxanthin. This bad boy has 13.5 times the antioxidant power as vitamin E and is known to protect cell membranes more effectively than vitamin A.

The fiber in seaweed feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Digestion-wise, it also keeps things moving.

But fibers not the only gutsy star on seaweeds roster. Seaweed also contains sulfated polysaccharides, which the good bacteria in your digestive system adore.

Seaweeds fiber can support weight loss by helping you feel full quickly *and* for longer. But the micronutrients in some seaweed could accelerate results, too.

A 2015 research review found that the fucoxanthin in edible brown seaweed might have positive effects on obesity. But researchers emphasized that more research is needed in humans.

A 2020 research review with mice included info on the effects of taking 1 g of red seaweed extract daily for 12 weeks. The mice who received the extract lost more body fat than the ones who took a placebo.

Although preliminary research is promising, theres not enough solid evidence to say for sure if eating seaweed can help people lose weight.

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death among pretty much all peeps worldwide? High cholesterol and high blood pressure are major contributors to heart disease. Seaweed may help ward off both.

A 2013 animal study found that rats who received freeze-dried seaweed had much healthier cholesterol levels than the other rats. Of course, we need more research since this study is dated *and* was performed on animals, not humans.

Certain bioactive peptides in seaweed may help manage blood pressure by affecting the pathways that increase blood pressure.

Promising stuff? Yes. But more large-scale human studies are needed.

Whether youre living with diabetes, prediabetes, or blood sugar spikes, seaweed might be your new BFF.

Firstly, good ol fiber is known to help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels. A small 2017 study also suggested that fucoxanthin is beneficial against diabetes a disease marked by unstable blood glucose (blood sugar).

Then theres a 2018 study with rats, which found that some seaweed compounds reduce fasting blood glucose levels.

Once again, we need more research to truly understand seaweeds effects on blood sugar management.

Limited research suggests that some types of seaweed can help your immune system.

A 2018 animal study found that adding seaweed to fish feed boosted immune function in salmon. A 2015 animal study also found that feeding sea moss to rats increased the animals ability to fight off bacteria and viruses.

Results are promising, but theres no proof that seaweed has the same benefits in humans, yet.

Seaweed is considered healthy if you eat it in moderation. Here are the risks of eating too much of the stuff.

TBH, a 2014 case report showed that connecting seaweed consumption with iodine overdose is rare. And it seems that simply lowering your intake can clear things up. But since most adults can tolerate only 1,100 mcg of iodine per day, pushing past that on a regular basis could be bad for your thyroid.

So, what about folks who eat seaweed on the regular? In Japan, some people consume 667 to 2,000 percent of their required daily intake. The trick is eating seaweed with veggies like broccoli, cabbage, and bok choy. These foods contain compounds that prevent the thyroid gland from taking up too much iodine.

Cooking also has an impact, too. Boiling kelp for 15 minutes can eradicate up to 90 percent of its iodine.

Seaweed excels at absorbing and storing minerals. That can be bad news if the plant soaks up heavy metals like mercury and lead.

Ingesting metal is no joke, but the risk of this happening is super small. A 2017 analysis found that the low metal levels in most seaweed does not pose a serious health risk.

Want to include more seaweed in your diet? You could try

Seaweed = algae that packs in several impressive nutrients. Some research suggests that it can support thyroid function, gut health, weight loss efforts, and more.

Most peeps can safely eat seaweed. Just stick to the recommended serving size to avoid iodine overload or heavy metals.

Adding seaweed to your daily diet can be as simple as eating seaweed salad, sushi, or dried seaweed snacks. You can also sprinkle dried seaweed powder onto a range of dishes.

View post:
Is Seaweed Good for You? Nutrition and Benefits - Greatist

Schools should consider providing food for children

Many countries around the world have school lunch programs that provide food to kids, meaning families don't need to pack a lunchbox each day.

Brazil has the longest running program, starting back in 1954, and India has one of the largest, feeding lunch to 140 million children in a year.

Depending on the country, these programs cost the government between US$54 and US$693 per child per year.

It's something Australian policymakers should consider to equitably improve kids' nutrition across the board and tackle childhood obesity. Among OECD countries, Australia ranks ninth for obesity prevalence, with a rate of 34 percent among children aged five to 19.

Japan stands out as the gold standard of programs. The school menus are planned by nutritionists, focusing on a balance of fresh, seasonal food including greens and seafood. Children are taught to respect the value of their food, how to prepare it safely, and understand where it comes from.

Japan's universal school lunch programme has helped close the socioeconomic gap in fruit and vegetable intake in Japanese children.

With the lowest incidence of childhood malnourishment and obesity in OECD countries, Japan presents an ideal case for implementing school-based food programs.

The NSW and Victorian governments do currently have breakfast "clubs" or programs for children, and both have plans for expansion to feed more children.

However a universal school-provided lunch model is needed to improve the health and well-being rankings of our children. Research shows insufficient government support is a barrier to such a model.

Here are our top tips for reducing parents' lunchbox anxiety and increasing the healthiness of kids' lunches:

Plan for the week ahead: Use the weekend to plan and shop for lunchboxes and make what you can ahead of time. Wash and cut up fruit and veggie sticks, bake with your kids, or make sandwiches with fresh bread and freeze individually, ready for kids to pull one out each day.

Involve your kids: Encourage your kids to make their own lunch from as young an age as possible. This will help their food knowledge and independence. Help them to choose items from each food group and category (for example, a fruit, a vegetable, sandwich or wholegrain crackers, cheese or yoghurt). An added benefit is they will be more likely to want to eat the food they pack.

Reduce pre-packaged foods: Packaged, highly processed foods such as muesli bars and chips are often high in salt and saturated fat, and low in fibre and nutrients. Replace these with fresh fruit or vegetables, homemade dips, seeds, popcorn, wholegrain rice crackers or boiled eggs.

Balance cost with convenience: It's cheaper to buy in bulk and prepare items for your kid's lunches, but if cost is not an issue, save time by buying items pre-prepared. For example, you can buy block cheese and slice it yourself, but pre-sliced cheese will save time. Having suitable containers available to store items will make your life easier and will also benefit the environment through minimising single-use plastics.

Give your kids lunchbox accountability: Being responsible for what comes out of a lunchbox is just as important as what goes into it. When your kids come home from school, make it their responsibility to dispose of spoiled food and clean their containers. Also, if the food is still good, put it out on the table as afternoon tea, or as a pre-dinner snack.

Lauren Ball is anAssociate Professor and Principal Research Fellow at Griffith University's Menzies Health Institute in Queensland, Australia; Lana Mitchell is aSenior Lecturer and Program Director, Bachelor of Nutrition & Dietetics, at Griffith University.

The Conversation

Read the original post:
Sick of packing school lunches already? Here's how to make it easier - Newshub

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Since were in the endemic phase now, people are no longer spending their time in their homes, in fact, theyre bound to travel whether its for business, family or even friends.

Of course, we enjoyed our pets company when we were constantly at home, but what about when were travelling? Whos gonna take care of them?

You cant have a good time travelling if youre constantly worried about your pets at home. What if theyre depressed and not eating? What if they got stuck in a basket? What if they found a way out and cant get back inside? Or worse, what if they miss you? (its the other way around usually, some pets [cats usually] dont even care if their owners are gone)

Here, we gathered a few tips on how to take care of your beloved pets when youre not home.

A pet sitter is someone you can hire or ask for help to take a look at your pet while youre on a trip. It could be your neighbour, your friends or anyone you trust. But if you dont wanna impose on them, you can always find a professionally paid pet sitter.

Professional pet sitters are experienced in handling animals and can offer better quality care for your pets than your inner circle who are not pet owners. A pet sitter could also help with other things too like watering your plants and getting the mail in. You can ask them for updates (pics/videos) of your pets when youre not there.

But of course, you have to be comfortable with somebody going into your house and having full access to your things.

A few tips to take note of when getting a pet sitter are:

If you wanna try and get some professional pet sitters, you can visit PetBacker or Pet Nanny Malaysias website.

This option has you sending your pet to another place, like a pet hotel or any experienced pet takers house. Some pet takers even offer grooming services and pick-up services (if you cant send off your pets, you can always get a pet taxi).

Some of the pet boardings have cages or little houses for your pets to sleep in and release them out during playtime. Some of them also use the spaces of their own house (if you want your pets to have a large space for them to roam freely, but still be supervised). But for those pets with medical problems or who need special care, do let them know beforehand so they can separate your pet from others and attend to them separately (or you can board them at the veterinarian clinic).

Some tips when boarding your pets are:

Some suggestions for pet boarding and hotel in the Klang Valley are cocomomo and petmalaysiahotel.

This is particularly important if your pet goes missing while youre away (you just gotta be prepared about these things). So update your details on your pets collar tags or get them microchipped at your nearby veterinary.

Just a note, these microchips are not GPS trackers. They just increase the chances of your pet being returned to you. The microchip is a small one-grain rice-sized pill thatll be injected around the shoulder blades of your pets. It works as an ID tag. Anyone who finds your lost pet can take it to the vet or any shelter with a microchip scanner. When they scan, then your ID and details will pop out in the registry. Hence, they can be returned to you safely.

Of course, this is not strictly necessary but it can help you check on your pets whenever you want and ensure that theyre safe in your house. Its just a regular CCTV camera that you can buy online. It is a bit costly but it could be useful for you in the long run.

You can aim the camera at their food and water stations or wherever they hang out the most so that you can see them regularly. You can also get those cameras that can rotate so you can find your pets easily in a room.

You dont really need to do this but if your pet is bound for a check-up, better do it before your trip so youre 100% theyre healthy when youre away.

In this case, make sure your pets are up to date on vaccines as well. You dont want them to contract infectious diseases while theyre away from your home.

All in all, you may have other people that you love in your life but your pet only has you. So treat them with the utmost care and love, even when youre away.

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Read more from the original source:
How To Take Care Of Your Pets When Youre Away For Raya Holiday - The Rakyat Post