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10 worst cities for people with allergies
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10 worst cities for people with allergies

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) publishes annual reports ranking cities from best to worst for allergy patients to live in. The report evaluates various livability and healthcare aspects like pollen and mold level, the number of treatments used per allergy patient, and the ratio of certified experts to every 10,000 patients. These factors determine how safe an area is for allergy patients. Keep reading to learn about the worst allergy-prone cities. Common irritants that trigger allergies Various environmental factors can trigger an allergic response in a person. These include poor air quality, mold, dust, and pollen. Pollen Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds is a typical seasonal trigger. These airborne particles can affect one’s nasal and respiratory tract, leading to asthma, sneezing, watery eyes, itchy nose, or even fever. The content is higher in the air during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Experts believe the pollen count will double in the next decade, affecting 30% of adults nationwide. Air pollution Poor air quality caused due to industrial and motor vehicle emissions can affect one’s respiratory and pulmonary function and worsen conditions like asthma and allergies. Mold and dust Usually affecting individuals during the winter, mold and dust mites can be found indoors in one’s bedding, stuffed animals, carpets, or furniture.
Avoid these 6 foods that trigger inflammation in arthritis patients
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Avoid these 6 foods that trigger inflammation in arthritis patients

The early stages of any form of arthritis can make indulging in daily activities quite frustrating. One may find it difficult to hold, grab, reach, or lift objects because of the stiffness in their joints. A healthcare expert may suggest certain therapies, prescriptions, and other treatments to manage the symptoms and pain caused by arthritis. However, one must avoid factors that trigger or worsen the condition, including the foods mentioned below. Pork Pork is a red meat that an individual with arthritis should strike off from their daily meal plan. Research indicates that this meat is substantially high in saturated fat. The intake of such fats may cause strain on the heart and may lead to gaining an unhealthy BMI, triggering inflammation and worsening one’s arthritis symptoms. Beef, lamb, mutton, and elk are other sources of red meat that arthritis patients should avoid. Milk This high-fat dairy product is rich in nutrients like calcium and proteins essential for healthier living. However, milk usually contains casein, a common contributor to inflammation in individuals with arthritis. Therefore, one should consider limiting milk and other high-fat dairy products like yogurt and cheese if dealing with arthritis. Tomatoes While tomatoes make great additions to several foods, people with arthritis may have to steer clear of this food.
6 foods to avoid for managing eczema
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6 foods to avoid for managing eczema

Eczema is a condition that can cause dry, itchy, or inflamed skin. It is a chronic condition that is common among young children. Common triggers include irritants such as harsh soaps, environmental factors such as cold or dry weather, or allergens such as dust mites, pet fur, pollen, or mold. It is important to manage inflammation during a flare, and nutrition is essential to controlling the symptoms. Avoiding the following foods may help one manage eczema better: Dairy products Milk and milk products are a common group of allergens. They can worsen eczema flare-ups among those with allergies, which is why most people with eczema tend to avoid dairy products. Unless one is severely allergic, it is advisable not to eliminate dairy products without consulting a physician first, as they are an important source of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics. Speak to a qualified nutritionist or a doctor about replacements or alternatives for dairy products. Eggs Egg allergy is another commonly occurring one. Children may be allergic to certain proteins found in eggs, which could trigger eczema flares. This also includes foods with eggs as an ingredient, such as baked goods. However, most egg allergies in children resolve by the age of 5.
7 food items to avoid for healthy skin
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7 food items to avoid for healthy skin

Food is fuel for the body, and the organs depend on a delicate balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for better functioning. Abrupt changes in daily foods can trigger increased blood pressure or blood glucose. Also, the skin is the body’s largest organ, weighing 8 pounds and stretching over 22 square feet for a full-grown adult. Daily nutrition directly affects skin health, so the following foods should be eliminated to preserve skin integrity. Sweets and desserts Candies, sweets, ice creams, baked goods, sweet confectionaries like pastries, and doughnuts are all made from refined sugars. These are empty calories that the body cannot process, only to a spike in blood glucose levels. Sugar primarily breaks down elastin and collagen, two important components for maintaining skin texture and sheen. Chocolate Chocolate is a deadly combination of sugar and caffeine, two ingredients that harm skin health. The body metabolizes these empty calories, leaving sugar in the bloodstream. An imbalance in blood glucose levels triggers a sudden increase in sebum production (the oils that fill up pores, causing acne), increasing the risk of breakouts. Consuming chocolate in moderation or eliminating it is better to avoid acne flare-ups. Deli meats Bacon, hot dogs, and pepperoni are popular cuts of meat sold at deli counters across the country.
7 foods that may help prevent cancer
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7 foods that may help prevent cancer

The food we consume has a massive impact on our overall health. Not only does it impact the occurrence of gastrointestinal conditions, but it also governs the development of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. To take better care of one’s health, it can help to eat well-balanced meals with foods that contain cancer-fighting nutrients such as carotenoids, polyphenols, allium, antioxidants, calcium, iodine, vitamins A, B, D, and K, fiber, and protein. Specific foods that may help reduce the risk of cancer Broccoli Broccoli contains sulforaphane, which is believed to have anticancer properties. It is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals, which can help fortify one’s body against developing cancer, particularly colorectal and colon cancer. Ideally, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli must be consumed a few times a week. Carrots Eating more carrots has been reported to reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as lung, stomach, and prostate cancer. Carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene and phytochemicals that reduce the damage from toxins and can slow down the growth rate of cancer cells. They also contain falcarinol, which has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Cooked carrots can deliver antioxidants better than raw carrots. Cook (steam or boil) them whole before cutting to prevent nutrient loss.
Foods to eat for better lung health
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Foods to eat for better lung health

Daily nutrition impacts how the organs in our body perform day in and out. For instance, healthy, well-balanced meals with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients boost immunity and lower the risk of serious complications. On the other hand, poor eating habits affect the functioning of specific organs, increasing the risk of diseases. This post lists the top foods nutritionists recommend adding to regular meals for boosting lung health and preventing chronic respiratory complications. Apples Apples are an excellent fruit to eat raw. They are rich in fiber and have a potent antioxidant called quercetin. Quercetin reduces the damage lung tissues suffer due to underlying respiratory disorders. Nutritionists recommend eating five or six apples a week for healthy lungs. Assorted berries Blueberries are among the richest sources of antioxidants that counter the inflammatory responses triggered by chronic respiratory disorders. A specific pigment in them called anthocyanins helps protect lung tissue from oxidative damage and slows down lung disease progression. Raspberries and strawberries are other antioxidant-rich berries to include in the daily nutrition plan for boosting lung function. Tomatoes Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, a carotenoid that prevents airway inflammation and slows down lung function decline caused by respiratory disorders. Tomatoes are also a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and lowers the risk of autoimmune responses that affect lung function.
5 habits to avoid before bed for managing migraines
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5 habits to avoid before bed for managing migraines

Migraine is a neurological condition that leads to severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. It may also cause nausea and vomiting in some cases. While a migraine is not life-threatening, it can cause immense discomfort when ignored. Research shows that poor sleep and a disrupted sleep schedule are potential triggers for migraine headaches. So, improved sleep hygiene can help patients better manage their condition in the long term. Things to avoid before bed for managing migraines Experts have narrowed down a few unhealthy bedtime habits that prevent people from getting quality sleep, which, in turn, triggers a migraine attack. A few of these unhealthy habits are discussed below: Staring at a screen Electronic devices like TVs, smartphones, and tablets must be avoided before bedtime. The screens of these gadgets emit a blue light that upsets the circadian rhythm or the body’s internal clock. It also prevents the brain from shutting down, leading to sleep deprivation. Experts recommended putting away all electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime for better sleep quality. Staring at bright lights before bedtime can have a similar effect as blue light and must also be avoided. Eating large meals Food and liquid intake can influence one’s sleep quality, making them a potential migraine trigger.
8 delicious foods to improve heart health
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8 delicious foods to improve heart health

The heart is a vital organ of the circulatory system that pumps blood containing oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It also serves other functions like controlling blood pressure and heart rate. Heart health depends on several factors, including family history and personal health. The food a person eats also determines the overall health of their heart. Here are eight delicious and nutritious foods one should eat to improve heart health. Dark chocolate Those who enjoy dark chocolate might be overjoyed to know that the cocoa-rich product does wonders for the heart. Its high cocoa content is a significant source of antioxidants and minerals. Eating it can help protect one from heart disease. However, dark chocolate contains sugar and calories, which is why it must be eaten in moderation to avoid any side effects. Almonds Eating a cup of almonds daily can help nourish the body with minerals and vitamins essential for heart health. Almonds contain nutrients like monounsaturated fats and fibers that are essential to protect a person from heart diseases. Eating almonds can also help improve good cholesterol (HDL) levels, which may help reduce the buildup of plaque and keep the arteries clear. One should keep in mind that almonds are also rich in calories.

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