When a person is down with the flu, they may not feel like eating much. However, healthy food is essential to keep the bug down. Fevers, body aches, colds, and cough take a toll on the body, leading to added weakness. Foods that are high in nutrients add to the body’s defense and make the immune system stronger to fight the illness. Here’s a list of foods and home remedies for flu relief. Foods for Relief from Flu Chicken soup Chicken soup contains vitamins, minerals, calories, and proteins, which are required when you’re down with flu. It is packed with amino acid cysteine, which is known to have antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, chicken soup is a complete meal that boosts immunity and opens up blocked nasal passages. Broths Any kind of broth is a rich source of fluids, nutrients, and electrolytes. It is easy to digest, rich in collagen, and reduces dehydration, promoting faster recovery from the flu. Most broths also contain amino acids, which are an essential source of protein. Consider making or buying a low-salt broth if you are watching your sodium intake. Hot tea After chicken soup, hot tea is a popular remedy for cold and flu. Be it green, oolong, or black, hot teas help relieve nasal congestion. But make sure your tea does not contain caffeine as it can cause dehydration. Teas are also rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants and polyphenols. Home Remedies for Relief from Flu Saltwater gargles Gargling with lukewarm salt water can treat upper respiratory infections by loosening the phlegm and mucus virus. The salt in the water also helps with throat pain and nasal congestion. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and swish it around your mouth and then spit. Warm baths Taking a warm water bath may reduce the symptoms of a cold and flu.

A healthy diet is one of the essentials of living an illness-free lifestyle, including lowering your risk of cancer. Understanding nutrition is essential if you are either managing this illness or trying to avoid it. Speak to a doctor in detail to know why these following foods should be avoided to reduce the risk of cancer. If you are managing your symptoms, you can also read about immunotherapy that may be helpful for your recovery. Processed meats These are primarily red meats like hot dogs, salami, sausage, corned beef, beef jerky, and ham. These meats are preserved using smoke, curing, salting, and canning and these processes can create carcinogens in the food. Several reviews suggest that over-consumption of processed meat is related to breast, stomach, and colorectal cancer. Fried foods According to research, a compound called acrylamide is formed when starchy ingredients are cooked in high temperatures, and this compound is responsible for damaging DNA and causing the death of cells. As over-consumption of fried foods can lead to obesity and risk of diabetes, it also increases oxidative stress in the body. These unhealthy reactions in the body may increase the risk of cancer. Alcohol The liver in the body breaks down alcohol into a compound called acetaldehyde. This compound is carcinogenic, and it promotes oxidative stress and damage to the body’s DNA. When such a reaction occurs in the body, it weakens the immune system, making it difficult to kill any cancerous cells in the body. Studies suggest that women who drink too much alcohol are at high risk of getting estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Immunotherapy treatment This is a type of therapy that works with the immune system to fight cancer cells. A healthy immune system can fight off the infections and diseases in the body, which are major health risks.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease that affects the central nervous system. It results in the deterioration of myelin, a protective covering around the nerves, disrupting brain-body communication. Although there is no cure for MS yet, patients can manage the disease’s symptoms and discomforts with the help of lifestyle changes, medications, and targeted treatment. Moreover, a healthy nutrition plan is essential, and eliminating the following foods can help provide further relief. Saturated and trans fat Both saturated and trans fats are bad for MS. Saturated fats like coconut oil, palm oil, dairy fats, and meat fats can increase cholesterol levels. And since MS patients are at risk of cardiovascular problems, high cholesterol raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. Trans fats can have a similar effect and may trigger inflammation of blood vessels. These fats are mainly found in baked goods and confectionaries as they are made with hydrogenated vegetable oils and shortening. Foods rich in sugar and salt Research studies say that increased sodium levels in the body can lead to a relapse of MS symptoms. It also increases the risk of high blood pressure, leading to significant circulatory problems if left unchecked. On the other hand, sugar contributes to unhealthy weight gain, which can put a lot of strain on the heart and body. It can even lead to fatigue, one of the more common MS symptoms. Moreover, both sugar and salt are inflammatory foods and should hence be used in moderation. Refined grains Refined grains are stripped of all essential nutrients and minerals that the body requires for proper functioning, adding no nutritional value. Moreover, doctors recommend a high-fiber food regime for MS. So, whole grains are better substitutes for refined white rice, white pasta, white bread, etc. Fiber-rich foods help relieve the effects of constipation, one of the common symptoms among MS patients.

Melanoma is a skin cancer that develops when melanocytes — cells that give our skin its color — grow out of control. If left undetected and untreated, the disease can spread to other parts of the body. While melanoma can be cured, patients must follow a healthy nutrition plan for a better prognosis. This article lists the foods one must avoid with melanoma and other skin cancers, along with suitable medications like OPDIVO®. Coffee Though coffee is an excellent beverage for keeping one awake during those long office hours, it is harmful to those with melanoma. Coffee contains caffeine, a property known to cause dehydration. And since cancer treatments require the patient to be hydrated all the time, patients must stay away from the beverage as far as possible. Processed and red meats The WHO has classified red meats (beef, pork, lamb, etc.) and processed meats (ham, bacon, frankfurters, salami, etc.) as Group 1 carcinogens. This is because they contain specific chemicals, both naturally occurring or artificial, that can lead to different cancers and worsen the symptoms. Desserts and sweets As tasty as they are, desserts and sweets do not provide much nutritional value to the human body. Moreover, having too many sugar-rich foods can reduce the effect of healthy foods that can fight cancers. So, a person with melanoma must avoid or cut down on sweets and candies to improve their overall strength. Apart from steering clear of the foods listed above, melanoma patients can consider using the following medications after consulting a doctor: OPDIVO® (nivolumab) OPDIVO® (nivolumab) is a prescription medication for treating melanoma when skin cancer has spread (advanced melanoma) and cannot be removed by surgery. In addition, OPDIVO® Rx medication also provides relief to those with lung, bladder, and kidney cancer. YERVOY® (ipilimumab) YERVOY® (ipilimumab) is another prescription medication used for melanoma relief in adults and kids below 12.

Anemia is caused by the lack of healthy red blood cells (RBCs) to carry sufficient oxygen to the tissues. This can be due to acute blood loss, the body’s inability to make RBCs, or the destruction of these cells. The condition can be managed by making changes in lifestyle and eating habits. Since proper food intake is crucial for alleviating anemia, let’s look at the recommended foods for those with this condition. Foods to eat Dark leafy greens like spinach Kale, spinach, collard greens, Swiss chard, and dandelion greens are all great sources of nonheme iron, which is essential for healthy living. Swiss chard and collard, specifically, are also high in folate. Eating folate-rich foods is necessary to avoid folate deficiency anemia. Organ meat like liver Liver, heart, kidney, and beef tongue are some popular organ meat choices rich in iron. That said, it is essential to ensure that the meat is hygienic, sustainably sourced, and toxin-free. Seafood like tuna Seafood is known to be a good source of heme iron. Fish like tuna, mackerel, pompano, fresh perch, salmon, or even mahimahi are rich in heme iron. Those who articularly like shellfish can have oysters, clams, crabs, shrimps, and scallops, as these too are good sources of iron. Blackstrap molasses Studies show that molasses are rich in vitamin B6, magnesium, selenium, and calcium. All these are essential nutrients that help keep anemia symptoms at bay. Beans Beans are a preferred choice for getting protein and iron for vegetarians. They are easy to cook and can be stored in the pantry or freezer for several weeks or months. Kidney beans, chickpeas, pinto beans, peas, lima beans, black-eyed peas, black beans, and soybeans are some of the popular choices to add to one’s meal regimen. Meat and poultry It is essential to incorporate venison, lamb, and red meat into one’s meals to get heme iron.

Food allergy is common in both children and adults. It is a condition in which a person’s immune system erroneously identifies specific components in food, typically protein, as enemies. As a result, it triggers an immune response that causes inflammation and other symptoms, such as diarrhea, rashes, shortness of breath, and even life-threatening anaphylaxis. Though nearly any food can trigger an allergic reaction, the following are more likely to cause a problem. Peanuts Peanuts are one of the most common causes of food allergies in humans. And the biggest concern is that allergic reactions caused by them can be severe and potentially fatal. Researchers are not sure why some are allergic to peanuts, but they maintain that a family history of peanut allergy increases an individual’s risk. Milk Milk allergy is the most common food allergy in infants and young children. However, most children grow out of it as they age. The problematic components in milk are its proteins—whey and casein. Milk allergy must not be confused with lactose intolerance, which is the body’s inability to fully digest the natural sugar (lactose). Wheat Approximately two-thirds of children with wheat allergy grow out of it by adolescence. Nevertheless, many adults are allergic to any of the hundreds of proteins found in wheat, causing symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, itching, and even anaphylaxis. Wheat allergy differs from celiac disease, an auto-immune disease triggered by gluten. Shellfish Mostly beginning in adulthood, shellfish allergy tends to remain lifelong. Allergic reactions caused by shellfish can be severe, and they occur when the body comes in contact with proteins in crustacean and mollusks families of fish. Even touching shellfish or breathing the steam from cooking them can trigger allergic reactions. Soy Allergies to soybeans and products containing them are prevalent among infants and babies under three.

Parkinson’s is a degenerative neurological disorder that commonly affects senior individuals. However, there are times when patients are diagnosed with the early onset of the condition. The disease is associated with a lower amount of dopamine in the brain and damaged nerve cells. Dealing with a condition such as Parkinson’s does not have a specific to-do not-to-do plan; however, there are certain foods that are believed to aid in its management. Foods that help manage Parkinson’s Bananas Bananas contain magnesium, a critical nutrient that helps lower the risk of spasm and muscle cramps. Patients with Parkinson’s are also low on dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter that regulates communication linked to movement. Bananas contain tryptophan and tyrosine, both key building blocks of dopamine that help supplement this requirement. Berries Studies reveal that free radicals can damage healthy brain cells and worsen the cognitive symptoms linked to Parkinson’s. Blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, goji berries, and elderberries are loaded with essential antioxidants and vitamin C to combat this stress and boost cognitive function. Berries are also loaded with fiber that helps manage constipation, one of the critical discomforts linked to the disease. Broccoli Green vegetables are rich in fibers and antioxidants that actively help combat oxidative stress to minimize dopamine loss. Broccoli is one of the top choices that help boost immunity, combat constipation, and improve cognitive function. Fish Different types of fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, trout, herring, and anchovies are loaded with essential omega-3 fatty acids. Studies reveal that omega 3s help manage confusion, reduce the risk of dementia, and even promote better motor control among Parkinson’s patients. Green tea Certain beverages can also help lower the progression of neurological disorders. Green tea, for example, contains natural polyphenols that help protect dopamine. Studies have shown the risk of Parkinson’s among those who drink green tea regularly is lower than those who don’t.

When the body fails to replace older bone tissues with newer ones, it leads to osteoporosis. It is a condition that results in weak and brittle bones. Osteoporosis increases the risk of bone fractures and is often diagnosed late due to limited symptoms. So, it is important to look after your nutritional requirements to maintain bone health to avoid any health complications. To help you, here are the top five foods for managing osteoporosis. Nuts Nuts are a convenient and tasty remedy that also enhances the effect of bone density supplements for osteoporosis. You should include an assortment of almonds, walnuts, pistachios, pine nuts in your daily snacks. Nuts are replete with minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese, ensuring bone health. Milk Milk and milk products are superfoods that strengthen bone density. The recommended intake of dairy products is three servings a day. However, low-fat or skimmed milk is better as they contain less fat. Alternatively, soy milk and products are also good sources of calcium. Fatty fish Fatty fish include options like tuna, mackerel, salmon, and more. They are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins A, C, D, and E and are high in protein content. This makes them a great addition to the plates of osteoporosis patients. The vitamin D found in these fish helps improve the body’s calcium absorption, resulting in improved bone health. Fortified foods For people that avoid dairy and dairy products, it can get tricky to get the required amount of calcium and vitamin D from food. In such instances, patients are advised to include fortified foods in their meals. This can include having a bowl of fortified cereal at breakfast with plant milk. Alternatives include fortified juices, vitamin D-rich pasta, and bread. Protein-rich foods Protein is crucial for the body to perform basic functions as well as help in the repair of damaged cells.

It is crucial to keep the lungs healthy in order to prevent the onset and escalation of serious conditions. There is a possibility that harmful toxins in the environment and consumption of inflammatory foods can lead to ailments such as chronic MAC infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis. Altering lifestyles and eating a nutrient-rich food regime can boost lung health. Here are five foods that can improve the function of the lungs. Beetroots and beet greens Beetroots are beneficial for the lungs, as they contain nitrates that relax blood vessels, decrease blood pressure, and improve oxygen levels in the body. On the other hand, beet greens are rich in magnesium and potassium, both minerals that boost lung health and help manage chronic MAC disease. Apples Apples, filled with beneficial flavonoids and a phytonutrient called quercetin, have always been known to keep doctors at bay. This fruit also contains phytochemicals that help keep your lungs healthy and your throat passageways clear. Apples contain all the good antioxidants that prevent chronic ailments. Ginger This immunity booster is an age-old remedy that helps keep the respiratory system healthy. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory spice and relaxes muscles of the lung tissue. A cup of ginger tea after your last meal aids digestion too. Bananas Bananas strengthen the heart and prevent oxidative damage of cells caused by free radicals. It is loaded with potassium and fibers that help promote lung function. Bananas are one of the fruits that people of all ages can consume. Tomatoes Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant that improves lung health, and tomatoes are full of them. They help in reducing inflammation of the airways in patients with asthma. Tomatoes boost immunity, too, as they are rich in potassium and vitamin C. In patients with severe lung conditions, doctors may recommend a change in lifestyle and antibiotics like Esbriet.

Atopic dermatitis, commonly referred to as eczema, is a skin condition that triggers itching, inflammation, and rashes on the skin. The symptoms are chronic and quite erratic, meaning they can develop without warning. The rashes also increase the risk of skin infections, mainly due to exposed skin. Eczema can be managed with a few topical treatments, prescriptions, lifestyle changes, and even by including the following foods that boost overall skin health. Healthy fats Omega-3 fatty acids naturally prevent dry skin by providing moisture from within the body. These good fats also help lower skin inflammation and prevent acne flare-ups. Salmon, sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and herring are excellent choices loaded with zinc and omega 3s. Vegetarians can supplement this intake by including more avocados, soybeans, walnuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds. Fresh veggies Spinach contains the highest concentration of folates and B vitamins that lower the risk of carcinoma and help repair skin DNA. Kale is a superfood when it comes to boosting anti-aging properties of the skin with vitamins A, C, E, and K. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are some other vitamin C-rich veggies to include in daily foods. Popular non-green alternatives like carrots and pumpkin are also rich in vitamin A, beta carotene, and essential skin-repairing compounds. Fresh fruits Tomatoes (yes, it’s a fruit) are rich in lycopene and vitamin C. These compounds mainly protect the skin from UV damage and boost collagen strength to repair skin. Also, fruits like oranges, apples, strawberries, blueberries, bananas, and cherries are excellent low glycemic options. They don’t trigger spikes in blood sugar levels. Such spikes lead to increased inflammation and sebum production, which are the main causes of breakouts and acne. Red grapes, rich in resveratrol, can also help slow down the effects of aging and lower the risk of free radicals that cause cell damage.

The foods we eat play a significant role, and that dictates how our organs function. The eyes are vascular, and it is necessary to eat nutritious foods to keep the blood vessels in good health. Eating unhealthy foods may block the veins that provide the eyes with the essential nutrients and oxygen. Such restrictions may affect one’s vision. Keeping this in mind, here are five foods that can worsen eye health. Margarine Margarine is considered a healthy alternative to butter, as it is made from vegetable oils. However, it still contains trans fats. These fats may increase a person’s cholesterol levels and put them at risk of heart diseases and eye problems. Red meat Red meat contains preservatives like salt, cholesterol, and fat, making them tasty and increasing their shelf life. However, these chemicals may harm one’s health and lead to high blood pressure. Such pressure spikes can lead to Choroidopathy, a fluid buildup below the retina. Fish Several fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and may offer health benefits. However, fish also contain hints of mercury. People who eat lots of fish may be at risk of eye damage because of the chemical element. Coffee Coffee contains caffeine, an energy-boosting component that helps people stay active. But studies link caffeine to a slew of health problems, including those related to the eyes. Caffeine may increase the pressure inside the eye, especially in people with ocular hypertension (OHT) or glaucoma. The increase in pressure may result in loss of vision and even blindness. Sweetened beverages Sweetened beverages like energy drinks, sodas, and lemonade contain an abundant amount of sugar. Each drink might contain about seven to ten teaspoons of added sugar. Such sugars may increase the risk of type-2 diabetes and heart diseases. These diseases may also lead to conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetes is an autoimmune disease, and food plays an important role in managing its symptoms and related complications. Most severe cases of diabetes are a result of long-term consumption of foods that heighten insulin resistance, increasing blood sugar levels. While we may be aware of obviously sugary foods that aggravate diabetes, there are some seemingly healthy options that can actually cause a lot of harm. Given below are five such foods diabetes patients should avoid. 5 foods that are surprisingly sugar-rich Flavored yogurt The next time you are out buying a healthy snack like flavored yogurt, take a peek at the ingredients and nutrition label. Store-bought flavored yogurt may contain sweeteners in the form of artificial flavors. Switch to plain yogurt and add your favorite fruits to enhance the taste. Breakfast cereals While your preferred breakfast cereals may contain whole grains and be fortified with vitamins, they do contain some amount of sugar that can cause an imbalance in the blood sugar levels. Hence check the label before picking a brand and choose from the ones that have the least amount of sugar. Granola bars Granola bars have gained popularity due to their healthy ingredients like cereals, nuts, and seeds. However, granola bars also contain added sugars in different forms, which might be harmful to diabetics. Hence, choose from sugar-free brands for the snack or pick the ones with the least amount of sugars. Condiments Diabetics who top their healthy meals like fresh vegetable salads with salad dressing unknowingly increase their blood sugar levels. Condiments like salad dressing, ketchup, teriyaki sauce, and barbecue sauce may enhance the flavor of an otherwise bland meal, but they contain added sugars and preservatives. Nutritionists suggest replacing these with sugar-free condiments. Meat Meat is the richest source of a macronutrient called proteins. Meat, especially red meat such as beef and pork, whether fried or grilled, can increase the risk of diabetes due to its high content of heme-iron.