4 herbal remedies for sickle cell anemia

4 herbal remedies for sickle cell anemia

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease in which the initially flexible, round red blood cells become crescent moon- or sickle-shaped. As a result, blood flow through small vessels slows down or stops, leading to various symptoms. The only cure for sickle cell anemia is a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. However, recent studies have shown that certain herbs and their blend can also provide relief. Read on to learn more about the herbal management of sickle cell anemia. Niprisan herbal extract formula Nigeria has the highest number of sickle cell patients in the world. To help its citizens fight the disease, the Nigerian government’s National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) developed a herbal formula called Niprisan that has shown promising results. It is made with extracts from four different plants: Piper guineense seed: Also called the West African pepper or Guinea pepper Pterocarpus osum stem: An African timber Eugenia caryophyllus: Also called cloves Sorghum bicolor: Also known as sorghum, great millet, durra, jowari/jowar, or milo The main active compounds of these herbs are piperine, chavicine, capsaicin, and cubebin. The medicine is unlikely to cause significant side effects. Fagara zanthoxyloides Herbal management of sickle cell anemia involves a few other herbs as well, which have shown promising results.
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8 tips to help maintain normal blood sugar levels

8 tips to help maintain normal blood sugar levels

An unhealthy lifestyle coupled with the amount of stress we are burdened with to achieve the “perfect life” has left us combating various serious health issues. Some of these ailments are hereditary, whereas, some of them are self-created. And, then there are those ailments that fall under both these categories. Diabetes is one such ailment that is known to have its roots firmly planted in our genes and can be a result of our reckless lifestyle as well. However, if normal blood sugar levels are maintained, people can easily coexist with diabetes and lead a normal life. Whichever treatment a person opts for controlling their diabetes, it involves maintaining normal blood sugar levels. A rise in the blood sugar levels leads to a string of other problems. So, the key to living with diabetes involves taking steps to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Diabetes isn’t an ailment that can be cured completely. So, one must follow these tips to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Lose weight Obesity is the root cause of a wide-range of disease or is known to worsen an already existing condition. Excess weight makes the person resistant to insulin, and this, in turn, disrupts the normal blood sugar levels in the body.
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8 foods that help control blood sugar

8 foods that help control blood sugar

Diabetes or high blood sugar can be effectively controlled if a proper daily diet is followed. Paying attention to food habits will not only keep a control on the blood sugar but also develop overall healthy weight. A balanced diet is often suggested by dieticians but not many understand the need for the same. If a person is suffering from diabetes, one thought tends to constantly remain in our mind and that is how to control blood sugar. Here are 10 best food items that are popular, easily available, and perfect for controlling blood sugar. Take a look! Vegetables are perfect for controlling blood sugar We all know that vegetables are an important part of everyday meals and diet plan. Including vegetables in the meal helps to keep us fit and healthy. Not only does eating vegetables healthy for a maintained body weight but also for controlling high blood sugar. It is advisable to include all kinds of vegetables in your diet but ensure to choose vegetables that are low in carbohydrates. You can try having mushrooms, tomatoes, sprouts, and onions, to name a few. Try adding more flavor to your meal by seasoning the vegetables well. Broccoli for a healthy heart Often recommended by doctors for people suffering from high blood sugar, broccoli is considered one of the best food items when one is looking to control blood sugar.
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Parkinson’s disease – Foods to have and avoid

Parkinson’s disease – Foods to have and avoid

Parkinson’s disease affects a large number of individuals in the country. It is characterized by tremors and rigid muscles and affects the day-to-day functioning of the individual.  No specific nutritional program can help cure Parkinson’s disease. But research has shown that following a healthy meal plan and nurturing a healthy body can help deal with the condition better. Herein, we shall discuss the foods that help tackle Parkinson’s as well as those to be avoided. These foods are highly recommended for Parkinson’s disease patients: Fatty fish Fatty fish can go a long way in helping tackle Parkinson’s disease. The omega-3 fatty acids present in fatty fish can help reduce inflammation of the nerves and improve neurotransmission. Omega-3s can also help slow the progression of neurodegeneration due to Parkinson’s disease. Foods high in antioxidants Free radicals can damage organs and fatty tissue, and even lead to the development of Parkinson’s in the body. Antioxidants help tackle free radicals that wreak havoc in the body. Blueberries, grapes, strawberries, and citrus fruits are great sources of antioxidants.   Foods with high nutritional value Those who suffer from Parkinson’s disease also suffer from nutrient deficiencies. To tackle this issue, eating foods with tons of zinc, iron, and essential vitamins becomes cricial.
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Best food and home remedies for nasal polyps

Best food and home remedies for nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are soft tissue growths found inside the nasal passage or on the sinuses. They are a symptom of respiratory diseases, allergies, and common sinus infections. Nasal polyps can cause breathing problems due to congestion and may increase the risk of infections among adults. It is possible to manage the condition with medications and treatments among known nasal polyps info options. The following changes in the food regime also help. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals Vitamin A and foods rich in beta carotene help counter inflammation and protect the sinus membrane. Popular options include dark leafy greens and fresh fruits, including spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, melon, mango, and apricots. Additionally, vitamins C and E can help fight free radicals that cause tissue damage due to oxidative stress. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds that are rich in bromelain and magnesium can further provide relief from sinus infections triggered due to nasal polyps. These foods are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and repair tissues. Foods rich in nutrients Cayenne pepper is rich in capsaicin that helps clear the sinuses and congestion. Additionally, foods that contain quercetin are potent antioxidants that fight inflammation and provide long-term relief.
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4 foods that help fight bladder-control issues

4 foods that help fight bladder-control issues

The bladder helps with the storage and disposal of urine. But with time, factors like age and underlying health conditions cause the bladder to perform inefficiently. Leaving the urinary system untreated can cause health conditions such as an overactive bladder (OAB), urinary incontinence, even urinary tract infection (UTI). And although incontinence products and treatments options are available, adding certain foods to your daily meals may help cope with bladder issues and improve overall health. These four foods are highly recommended for those suffering from an overactive bladder. Bananas When bowel movements are restricted, there’s an increase in pressure on the urinary tract. This pressure reduces urine flow and causes incontinence. The fibers and potassium in bananas promote healthy bowel movements and flush out the urinary tract. The fruit is also non-acidic, which means it does not irritate the bladder and makes for a balanced nutrient supply to the body. Pears Pears may taste sweet but they are low in sugar content and contain several antioxidants and fibers that are much required for the body. This fruit is also high in sorbitol, which a sugar alcohol that help pulls water into the intestines and stimulates better bowel movements. These properties make for pears a great fruit for dealing with OAB and improving bowel movements.
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4 foods that help maintain a healthy prostate

4 foods that help maintain a healthy prostate

The prostate gland is an essential organ that is responsible for the nourishment and transportation of sperm. Recent times have seen a rise in prostate-related issues in men. This trend makes adopting a healthier lifestyle all the more crucial. A prime lifestyle change one can adopt is including healthier foods in their daily meal plan. Herein, we discuss other natural ways for better prostate health as well as recommended foods and medications: Better prostate health is possible with foods like Broccoli This highly nutritious vegetable contains several essential complex compounds that aid in protecting the prostate from serious diseases. Legumes Legumes are rich in phytoestrogens and are believed to suppress the growth of cancer cells in the prostate. Examples include beans, lentils, and peanuts. Tomatoes Including tomatoes in daily meals ensures a healthy prostate thanks to the abundance of the antioxidant lycopene that helps prevent and control cell damage. Pomegranate juice Pomegranate extract and juice contain bioactive components that supress cancer cells and keep the prostate gland healthy. However, choosing a sugar-free juice is essential. These lifestyle changes will natural promote a healthy prostate: Getting more exercise Excess weight is a major risk factors of prostate-related issues. Working out, jogging, or simply brisk walking for 30 mins daily can suffice.
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Healthy food habits that help manage joint pain

Healthy food habits that help manage joint pain

Food habits play a critical role in maintaining overall health and immunity. Any deficiencies in vitamin or nutrient content can trigger a series of discomforts linked to certain chronic conditions. Also, there are a number of food triggers that can aggravate existing symptoms in conditions like arthritis. This is one of the main reasons why it is essential to incorporate and eliminate certain food options to manage joint pain to some extent. Foods to have: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids Inflammation is one of the significant triggers of joint pain and discomforts. The body must naturally absorb omega-3 fatty acids to counter these problems and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Seafood like salmon, halibut, trout, sardines, and tuna are rich sources of this nutrient to be included among daily foods. Vegetarians can alternatively source omega-3s from a variety of nuts and seeds. Walnuts, pine nuts, almonds, chia seeds, and flax seeds are among the popular sources. Fresh fruits and vegetables Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients that act as pain receptor blockers. Kale, purple cabbage, and mustard greens are popular choices among leafy greens. Similarly, fruits rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, can help manage the inflammatory responses to alleviate discomforts associated with joint problems.
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Cancer management – Nutrition and treatment

Cancer management – Nutrition and treatment

Food plays an important role in maintaining daily health. Without proper nutrition, the body’s immune system will not be able to handle chronic disorders. Essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients sourced from fresh foods and healthy cooking techniques can even help prevent and reduce the risk of cancer to some extent. The following changes in the food regime can help maintain a nutritional balance and improve quality of life, especially during treatment. Healthy fruits and vegetables Cancer mainly worsens due to the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. These unstable molecules destroy healthy cells in the vicinity and aggravate the symptoms of different types of cancer. Vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and squash are rich in carotenoids that promote anticarcinogenic benefits. Broccoli, spinach, and kale are also healthy options to consider among leafy greens. Additionally, citrus, lycopene, and antioxidant-rich fruits like orange, tomatoes, and assorted berries, especially strawberries, can lower the effect of oxidative damage. Certain polyphenols and allium compounds found in garlic, onions, leeks, chives, herbs, and other spices also help lower the risk of cancer-causing free radicals. Foods rich in fiber Constipation is a common discomfort experienced by many people during cancer treatment as a side effect of certain medications.
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Ovarian cancer management – foods to eat and avoid

Ovarian cancer management – foods to eat and avoid

Ovarian cancer can affect women of all ages. However, in most cases, the individuals are between 50 and 60 years of age. While there are several preventive measures one can take, both gynecologists and oncologists suggest that paying attention to your daily nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of suffering from the condition. This article sheds light on a list of foods that you may include and avoid to manage ovarian cancer symptoms. Foods to Eat Garlic Apart from adding flavor to food, garlic is also known for its anti-cancer properties. Garlic is loaded with nutrients like vitamin B6, vitamin C, and selenium, which help in fighting cancer cells. An organosulfur, S-allyl cysteine (SAC), can induce apoptosis (cell suicide) in ovarian cancer cells. Grapes Grapes contain an antioxidant known as resveratrol, which blocks the formation of ovarian cancer cells in the lymphatic system. Resveratrol can decrease the risk of metastasis of ovarian cancer, which stops it from spreading into different parts of the body. Black and purple grapes have higher amounts of cancer-fighting resveratrol as compared to green grapes. Onions Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant that helps in fighting cancer by lowering inflammation in the body. At the cellular level, quercetin can induce apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells in high concentrations.
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