Arthritis is a condition that causes severe pain and stiffness in the joints. Its types are varied but widely divided into two categories – inflammatory and non-inflammatory. Rheumatoid arthritis is a common form of inflammatory arthritis. The degree of stiffness or inflammation is affected by many factors, the primary being the food you eat. Its symptoms can be managed by limiting foods that trigger inflammation. Here are seven things rheumatoid arthritis patients should avoid. Foods rich in omega-6 fatty acids The intake of excess foods with omega-6 fatty acids can trigger inflammation in arthritis. These foods are soybeans, corn, safflower, sunflower, canola oils, nuts, and meat. It is best to switch to mono-saturated fats like olive oil and fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, or cod to provide the body with healthy calories. Excessive sugar Patients with arthritis should limit the consumption of excessive sugar items such as candy, ketchup, barbecue sauce, soda, chocolates, and pastries. Sugar flares the release of cytokines, a form of protein in the body that results in inflammation. Avoid forms of sugar like corn syrup, fructose, maltose, and sucrose. One should also limit the intake of certain carbonated or fizzy drinks. They contain high levels of phosphoric acid, which promotes calcium excretion through urine.

Leukemia refers to types of cancer that develop in the blood cells. A person is at a greater risk of developing the disorder if they are over 55. However, it isn’t uncommon for younger children to also suffer from similar complications. Moreover, a permanent cure for leukemia is still in the works. However, one can still follow simple methods to manage the condition, including eating specific foods to fight cancerous cells. Berries Berries have a long history of benefits in improving overall health. When it comes to leukemia, they are rich in antioxidants, which are known to protect the body from free radicals. Berries are specifically known to fight the effects of breast, bladder, and esophagus cancers. Tomatoes The antioxidant lycopene present in tomatoes may help those with leukemia manage the symptoms. The food is also rich in other properties like vitamins A, C, and E, known to fight free radicals that may trigger cancer formations in the body. Tomatoes are also known to benefit those with prostate cancer. Yogurt Yogurt contains healthy bacteria that can improve how a person handles the foods they eat. This bacteria is also known to regulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the body.

Arthritis is not a singular condition but a group of disorders that mainly affects the joints causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness, among other known symptoms. It is one of the country’s most commonly diagnosed osteo problems, with over 100 different subtypes. However, arthritis can be managed considerably with simple changes in daily nutrition, lifestyle changes, and prescriptions for managing the symptoms. Here is a brief overview of managing arthritis symptoms. Fatty fish Fatty fish are naturally rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, one of the most crucial anti-inflammatory compounds suggested for specific conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent choices of fish to be consumed thrice a week. Fresh fruits Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, cranberries, grapes, oranges, and grapefruits are excellent sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, quercetin, anthocyanins, and citrus can help counter inflammation, one of the most severe symptoms of arthritis. Nutrient-dense vegetables Dark leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables pack plenty of nutrition that can help counter discomforts linked to arthritis. Broccoli, beetroot, carrots, sweet potatoes, and cabbage contain antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that counter inflammation. Red bell peppers, pumpkin, carrots, and sweet potatoes are also rich in beta-carotene and vitamin that boosts immune function.

An adage states, “you are what you eat,” which might be more accurate than we believe today. The food you eat has much more to do with your health than you would like to give it credit. Your eating and lifestyle habits dictate the kind of health you live with. It also impacts the health of all your organs. Hence, it is evident that eating harmful foods will undoubtedly harm crucial health factors like vision. Saturated fat Frequent and unchecked intake of fatty foods is one of the biggest reasons for the rise in health conditions. It is responsible for serious health issues in the long run. Saturated fats are present in everything from your favorite pack of chips to burgers and baked food. Therefore, replacing saturated fats in meals with unsaturated fats is advised as it increases the risk of developing conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Lean protein sources, vegetables, and dry fruits are some of the healthiest sources of good-quality fat. Margarine Marketing strategies have made everyone believe margarine is a much healthier alternative to butter. However, contrary to such beliefs, it is loaded with trans fats. Continued use of margarine in meals is a source of increased cholesterol levels in the body and can result in clogged-up blood vessels in the body.

Lungs are responsible for delivering oxygen to the body and protecting the airways from irritants. One’s eating habits and lifestyle play an important role in maintaining lung health. For strong lungs, it is necessary to expose oneself to fresh, pollution-free air and choose nutrient-rich foods that boost energy and health. The absence of either can lead to impaired lung functionality and problems like asthma. Here are four foods to avoid for optimal lung health: Sugary foods Refined sugar is usually added to foods for preservation and taste enhancement. Excessive amounts of this ingredient can be found in sweetened drinks, syrups, cakes, donuts, cereals, flavored yogurt, granola, chocolates, and candies. Studies show that those who regularly opt for sugary foods and drinks have a high chance of developing bronchitis. Excessive intake of refined sugar also increases the fat content in the body and eventually puts pressure on the lungs and heart, leading to impaired functioning of the organs. Carbonated beverages Similar to refined sugar, carbonated beverages tend to put undue pressure on one’s lungs. These drinks have no nutrients and contain empty calories, carbon dioxide, and sugar. According to the American Lung Association, these drinks can generate gas, which can impede breathing, tighten the chest, or trigger asthma flare-ups.

Food plays an important role in managing health issues. A deficiency of certain vitamins and nutrients can lead to complicated health conditions that need to be treated and managed through lifestyle changes, including better food choices. Such modifications can help one prevent complications and avoid triggering symptoms. So, one can opt for the following nutrient-rich foods, along with a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, to help them manage common health conditions: Food and heart health Studies suggest that a heart-friendly meal consists of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil and olive oil are known to be beneficial for managing and reducing inflammation that could lead to heart diseases. Nuts and seeds, like almonds and pumpkin seeds, are known to reduce one’s risk of developing blood clots. Nuts and seeds can also lower the LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. One should, however, watch out for excessive salt in packaged nuts and ensure that they only have a handful of nuts and seeds in the day. One should consider adding whole grains rich in vitamin B, like oatmeal, quinoa, and brown rice, along with various antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like cantaloupe, spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, and cod liver oil.

Heartburn is a condition where patients experience pain in the throat and chest along with discomfort. It is caused by the upward flow of stomach acid that has managed to reach the esophagus. This causes inflammation and irritation of the food pipe. While several treatment options are available, it is crucial to change regular eating habits to alleviate symptoms and slowly but naturally recover from the condition. Here are foods to eat and avoid for heartburn. Bananas A natural antacid banana is one of the few fruits without citrus content. Bananas can be conveniently used for people with heartburn and acid reflux issues. Including one ripe banana in one’s daily meal plan is recommended to alleviate heartburn symptoms. However, it is to be used carefully for some patients as it might work as a trigger for them. It is better to consult a doctor or nutritionist to help inculcate food into one’s heartburn remedy routine to ensure it does not aggravate any other underlying conditions. Yogurt One of the key benefits of yogurt is that it helps prevent heartburn. A cooling agent is functional in finding relief from the burning sensation of heartburn. Yogurt works as that cooling agent. Not only is it useful in finding relief from the burning sensation, but regular intake will also help keep heartburn at bay.

The bladder is a type of muscular sac located just above the pubic bone behind the pelvis. Its primary function is to collect and store the urine produced by the kidneys. The bladder can hold 400 to 600 ml of urine produced in a day before it is evacuated from the body. Foods and beverages consumed daily play a crucial role in maintaining bladder health. So here are ten bladder-friendly options to assist organ function. Cauliflower Cauliflower is a rich source of fiber, folates, vitamin C, vitamin K, and mainly indoles, a specific plant chemical compound that is effective in countering inflammation in the urinary tract. Broccoli and cabbage are also excellent cruciferous vegetables to consume regularly. In addition, nutritionists suggest kale and collard greens, among other cruciferous vegetables, to boost fiber and antioxidant intake. Watermelon Water helps the body flush out toxins by way of urine. Thus, including water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cantaloupe, papaya, peaches, and coconuts can help boost hydration. This is one of the reasons why urologists also suggest drinking more water as it helps dilute the urine and increases the frequency of urination. Assorted berries Cranberries and cranberry juice are generally recommended for managing bladder and urinary tract infections.