Cancer is a serious, complex disease that can be quite difficult to manage unless diagnosed in the early stages. While people with a family history of cancer are more vulnerable, other lifestyle factors could also increase your risk of getting cancer. Our nutrition plays an important part in the growth and development of our bodies. While certain foods can protect our body from cancer, others can increase the risk of developing it.

Some foods that may increase the risk of cancer are as follows:

Processed meat
Generally, the processes that are involved in curing and preparing deli meat items involve a lot of smoking, salting, and canning. These processes lead to the development of certain carcinogenic chemicals, including N-nitroso compounds in such meats. Thus it is important to avoid consuming red and processed meats such as salami, sausage, beef jerky, corned beef, etc.

Refined sugar
Consuming foods that contain a large amount of refined sugar or refined carbohydrates can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity. As a result, it increases your vulnerability to inflammation and ultimately to cancers like ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and endometrial cancer. Instead of consuming such refined carbohydrates, you can switch to whole grains and more natural sources of sugars in your meals.

Fried foods
When foods are fried or cooked at higher temperatures, they develop certain harmful compounds like acrylamide that are known to be carcinogenic. Moreover, if you tend to use more oil in your cooking process, it can interfere with the amount of bad cholesterol in the body and thus lead to type 2 diabetes, obesity, and even cardiovascular issues.

Alcohol
When alcohol is metabolized in the body, it gives rise to certain chemical byproducts like acetaldehyde. This acetaldehyde is a powerful carcinogen and can also interfere with the body’s ability to fight cancerous and precancerous cells. Consuming a large amount of alcohol can increase your risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Overcooked foods
Meats and other similar foods, when overcooked, can release carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs). Thus it is important to avoid charring or burning your foods to avoid such compounds.

Treatment methods for cancer
Different types of cancer treatments are available for patients based on how far along they are in this disease and how well their body reacts to the existing treatment. Some of the most commonly suggested treatment options for cancer include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, and targeted therapy with the help of inhibitors like KRAS G12C.

Common medications prescribed for cancer
In addition to the different treatment approaches, several medications are often prescribed for cancer patients. These include prescription medicines like Neulasta®, ibrutinib, and VENCLEXTA®. Such medications are prescribed in addition to chemotherapy or targeted therapy as a combination of one or more medications or a single medication.

KYPROLIS®
KYPROLIS®, which contains carfilzomib, is a prescription medication that is prescribed to patients suffering from relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. This injection is given on its own or in combination with other medications to increase its effectiveness. The medication acts as a proteasome inhibitor and helps in slowing down the growth of cancer cells in the body. It is usually prescribed to patients who have already received one to three treatments previously for multiple myeloma.

Ovarian cancer impacts females across various age groups, although the risk is higher for women aged 50 years and above. Other risk factors include family history, genetics, sometimes environmental contributors, and more. To get the right treatment at the right time, it is crucial to identify the signs and symptoms of any condition. This article talks about the common early signs of ovarian cancer and the foods that might help prevent it.

• Bloating
  Bloating can be a result of many underlying factors. However, when the bloating is prolonged and lasts for weeks or months, it can be a sign of something more serious. Bloating, when accompanied by a distended stomach, maybe an early sign of ovarian cancer.
• Constipation
  Like bloating, constipation too can be a common issue among the masses. It is constipation that is persistently present that can be a cause of concern. IBS has been known to be connected to almost every health condition, even ovarian cancer.
• Change in bladder function
  Bladder-related issues like pain while urinating, pressure on the bladder, frequent and urgent need to urinate can all be red flags of ovarian cancer. If any of these symptoms last more than a few days, it is crucial to consult a doctor and not overlook the symptoms.

Including the following foods in the regular meal plans can help amplify the body’s ability to fight the cancer cells.

• Ginger
  A popular superfood and a common ingredient in most kitchens, ginger has numerable health benefits. It helps reduce bloating, constipation and aids in poor digestion. All of these, as discussed earlier, can be signs of ovarian cancer. Regular intake of ginger can help reduce the risk of cancer and achieve relief from these uncomfortable symptoms. Adding ginger to food and beverage recipes is one way of inculcating it into the daily routine.
• Carrots
  Carrots are one of the most important foods when it comes to vitamin A or beta carotene. Additionally, they are also a rich source of vitamin B6 and vitamin K. The inexpensive produce with its high beta carotene, and fiber content helps protect the cell membrane from toxin and free radical damage. Carrots also hold importance in the ovarian cancer diet since they help slow down the growth rate of cancerous cells.
• Cucumber
  Cucumbers bring a very vivid image of spa time to mind, but they are good for more than just a snooze fest. They are rich in vitamins A and K and have high amounts of micronutrients, including potassium, magnesium, and even pantothenic acid. The salad staple is known for its ability to detoxify the body, and pantothenic acid is a great warrior in the fight against ovarian cancer.
• Spinach
  Spinach is among the best sources of iron, potassium, zinc, and magnesium. All these micronutrients are essential for building a strong immune system and are therefore considered an integral part of the ovarian cancer diet.
• Eggs
  Ovarian cancer patients are known to have lower levels of vitamin D. To ensure that the body’s need for vitamin D is met, it is recommended that the patients incorporate eggs in their meals regularly. The best and the safest way to have eggs is when they are completely cooked; try to avoid half-cooked or raw eggs.

Diarrhea is a condition that causes frequent bowel movements with a loose, watery stool. It can have many causes. Unless it is a severe condition caused by an infection or an underlying disease, a patient can treat it by making a few dietary changes and taking OTC medications.

Causes of diarrhea
Several factors can lead to diarrhea

• Infections: Stomach flu, bacterial gastroenteritis, and parasitical infections like intestinal worms can lead to this condition.
• Food poisoning: Adverse reactions to food can cause diarrhea.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or irritable bowel syndrome or IBS can cause chronic diarrhea.
• Medicines: Some medications like NSAIDs and antibiotics can be the cause.

There are other causes of diarrhea as well. Your doctor will get all the details of your condition, consider the medicines you are consuming, and check for any underlying ailment that could cause diarrhea. They may also ask you to go for blood and stool tests if you have severe diarrhea.

Treatment of diarrhea
Most of the times, diarrhea goes away on its own after three or four days. Some over-the-counter medicines like bismuth subsalicylate and loperamide can help.

If you have severe diarrhea due to a bacterial infection, you may have to take antibiotics for treating the condition. If some other ailment like celiac disease or IBS is the cause, you may have to consult a gastroenterologist who will provide you with a treatment plan for chronic diarrhea.

What should diarrhea patients eat and drink?
When you have diarrhea, you have frequent bowel movements, and this causes dehydration. So, you should drink a lot of water. Your doctor may also suggest some special drinks like a sports drink to replace the electrolytes lost from your body.

Stick to a balanced diet and avoid spicy foods. Usually, the diet plan followed for treating diarrhea is called BRAT. It consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.

Bananas contain pectin, which is a water-soluble fiber that helps to bind and thicken the liquids in the intestine. Rice is well known for its soothing and binding effect. Applesauce also contains pectin which helps to firm up the stools. Dry toast helps to satiate your appetite and does not cause any irritation.

Probiotics as a treatment for chronic diarrhea
For treating chronic diarrhea, take your doctor’s advice before starting a course of probiotic supplements. Probiotics contain good bacteria that help to contain the growth of bad bacteria that harm your health. These beneficial bacteria also help to clean up your gastrointestinal system and maintain good gut health.

Here are some natural sources of good bacteria:

• Curds or yogurt
• Cottage cheese
• Green olives
• Sauerkraut
• Sourdough bread
• Aged soft cheeses
• Kefir
• Miso

Most fermented foods are good sources of beneficial gut bacteria. Hence, the food items mentioned above can help treat diarrhea.

Other natural treatments for diarrhea

• Ginger can help your body get rid of toxins. Peel and grate a tiny piece of ginger, mix it with a teaspoonful of honey, and consume this. Do not drink water for a while after you have this mixture.
  Make a herbal drink by boiling a small piece of peeled ginger in water, strain this, and let it cool. Add a teaspoon of honey and drink this.
• Fenugreek is rich in mucilage which helps in providing a protective lining in your guts. Soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in yogurt or curd and leave it overnight. Then, first thing in the morning, eat this mix of curds and softened fenugreek. It helps to calm your guts.
• Buttermilk is a traditional remedy used across the world to soothe an irritated digestive system. Consume a glass of buttermilk when you are experiencing abdominal pain.
• Chamomile can also help to reduce abdominal pain and spasms that accompany diarrhea. Brew some chamomile tea and drink it.
• Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties. Drink a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
• Besides containing water-soluble fibers, bananas are also a rich source of potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte needed by our body for several vital functions.
• Orange peel promotes digestion. Peel the skin of some organic oranges. Wash the peels, put it in a pot, and pour some hot water over it. Cover the vessel with a lid. After it cools, strain the mixture, and add some honey. Drink this to promote digestion.
• Honey in its raw form is a useful ingredient. It has antibacterial properties and helps the body absorb calcium quickly. It also aids in repairing damaged intestinal tissues and has anti-inflammatory properties. Take a teaspoonful of honey every day to treat diarrhea.

Prevention measures

• Maintain good hygiene, always wash your hands before sitting down for meals.
• Wash fruits and vegetables before you cook them.
• Keep your kitchen clean.
• If there are any leftovers, refrigerate them.
• If you have had a medical condition that can cause diarrhea, avoid the trigger foods like wheat (celiac disease) or dairy products (lactose intolerance)

When you are traveling:

• Avoid eating street food.
• Avoid tap water. Only drink bottled water at all times.
• Eat well-cooked food.
• If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid spicy foods.

Diarrhea treatments can range from the simple to complex. Treatments for severe diarrhea may include antibiotics and diet restrictions. To treat chronic diarrhea, you must identify the underlying cause.

You may also have to make permanent changes in your diet like avoiding wheat or milk products, or foods rich in unhealthy fat. There are over-the-counter medicines you can try, but never use these on children. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication. Many traditional home remedies can aid in the treatment of severe diarrhea and chronic diarrhea.

6 FDA-approved medications for high cholesterol

High cholesterol leads to fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Over time, these deposits grow, causing difficulties for the blood to flow through the arteries. In some cases, the deposits may break off and form clots. These can cause a stroke or heart attack. There can be multiple causes of high cholesterol; the causes can be genetic or a result of unhealthy lifestyle habits. This makes high cholesterol a preventable and treatable health disorder.

High cholesterol can be easily managed by following a balanced and healthy diet along with regular exercise. In case the cholesterol levels are extremely high, medications may be required to control and manage the condition. There are a few medications for high cholesterol that are approved by the FDA. All these medications must be taken only when prescribed by a doctor.

• Kynamro
  A cholesterol-lowering medication, Kynamro works by lowering bad cholesterol in the blood, such as non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL), apolipoprotein-B (apo-B), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). It is effective when used along with a low-fat diet and other prescribed treatments. Kynamro is usually recommended to those with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited type of high cholesterol. It is, however, not suitable for those with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Although Kynamro lowers high cholesterol levels, it is uncertain if the medication can lower the risk of heart diseases.
• Altoprev
  Altoprev, when used with a diet, helps lower blood levels of bad cholesterol such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Altoprev works by increasing the levels of good cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The medication also lowers the levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. A high level of triglycerides increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders. The use of Altoprev has been known to lower the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart complications resulting from diabetes.
• Repatha®
  This medication is used for the treatment of high LDL cholesterol; this type of cholesterol is also known as bad cholesterol. Repatha® is a type of human monoclonal antibody. It aids the liver in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol. It is prescribed to those with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). Additionally, medical experts also recommend Repatha® to those who are at risk of other complications due to cholesterol, such as heart attacks and strokes. This medication is effective only when used along with a balanced low-fat diet and other high cholesterol medications.
• PRALUENT
  A type of monoclonal antibody, PRALUENT works by assisting the liver to reduce bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol in the body. It is usually prescribed to two groups of patients: those with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and those who have experienced complications such as strokes or heart attacks due to high cholesterol levels.
• Colestid Flavored
  This cholesterol-lowering medication is also known as a bile acid-binding resin. Colestid Flavored lowers LDL cholesterol levels by removing bile acid from the body. This leads to more bile acid production by the liver using cholesterol. As a result, it lowers high cholesterol to a great extent. With a combination of a low-fat diet and other medications, Colestid can help manage high cholesterol effectively.
• Antara
  Also known as Fenofibrate, Antara lowers LDL and triglycerides and increases the level of HDL in the blood. The medication increases the levels of natural enzymes that break down fats in the blood. Antara is most effective when combined with a proper diet and exercises. Habits like smoking should be avoided.

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects several thousand people in the country. This painful condition that affects the heel of the foot can cause great discomfort and impairs the daily functioning of a person. Wearing the right plantar fasciitis insoles can go a long way in alleviating symptoms and living a normal life.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
First, let’s take a look at this common condition and understand its causes, signs, and symptoms. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by pain and inflammation in the band of tissue that connects a person’s heel to the toes. It is caused due to extreme stretching or tearing of this band of tissue that provides support to the arch on a person’s heel. This is where plantar fasciitis insoles can provide relief and help a person walk normally.

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis are intense pain near the heel that usually worsens after waking up in the morning, after long periods of standing on your feet, and when you rise up after sitting for a long time. A person generally does not experience pain during exercise but there may be a pain right after.

This condition is generally seen in runners, ballet dancers or individuals who participate in activities that put pressure on the heels. People who are obese, individuals who do not wear shoes with adequate support, those who regularly wear high heels, and people with flat feet are at a higher risk of developing this condition. People whose jobs tend to keep them on their feet are also vulnerable. Plantar fasciitis is more common in women, but men can also develop it.

How Is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?
This condition is self-diagnosable, but it is best to consult a doctor about the severity of the condition. A physical examination of the affected area and some imaging tests may be required to point out the exact location of the pain and inflammation.

Treatment is usually a combination of medication and therapy. Medication such as anti-inflammatory drugs is given. In case these drugs don’t work, doctors may prescribe steroidal injections which can help to reduce pain and prevent recurrence of inflammation for a long period of time.

Physical therapy is an important process for a person recovering from plantar fasciitis. A person will need to learn exercises to increase the strength of the plantar fascia. Other therapy procedures such as massages and ultrasonography. Shock therapy in which the affected area is focused with sound waves can help with healing and may be used in long-term treatment plans if other treatments haven’t worked. Tenex procedure, a small invasive procedure, is also used to remove scar tissue without surgery. In serious cases, surgery may be required.

The best plantar fasciitis insoles
One of the best self-care remedies is the use of plantar fasciitis insoles. While prescription insoles are available, over-the-counter ones are also available that go a long way in providing support to your affected foot. This is true for both runners who require them to maintain an active lifestyle as well as people with jobs that require a great deal of standing.

The best plantar fasciitis inserts are those that offer optimum support to the arch of the foot without restricting a person’s daily movements. These provide the cushioning for your heels and the shock absorption that the heel needs.

There are different types of insoles for plantar fasciitis and the below list will guide you on the best plantar fasciitis insoles.

• Tread Labs Insoles
  These insoles offer varying arch heights to provide support to the arch of the foot. It distributes the receives weight and reduces pressure on your heels.
• Orthaheel Relief Insoles
  These are useful in footwear that does not have any cushion. They are suitable for a variety of activities like daily work, exercise, hiking, or long periods of activity and are lightweight. They also provide relief from heel spurs.
• Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles
  These are affordable, fully-cushioned plantar fasciitis inserts that are great to provide arch support. They are also useful for shoes that do not come with in-built cushioning.
• Superfeet Green Heritage Insoles
  The company makes insoles in different colors, but the green one has the maximum arch and is good for people who already have plantar fasciitis or are at risk of developing the condition. Due to the high arch, people with smaller arches or flat feet should not use these. These insoles are long-lasting and will provide relief after continuous use.
• Nazaroo Orthotics Insoles
  These are great for those with flat feet who struggle with severe plantar fasciitis.
• Sof-Sole Comfort Gel Insole
  The soft surface of the insole makes it comfortable to wear all day long and people are also able to walk long distances with these insoles for plantar fasciitis.

Nowadays, allergies have become very common, and many people suffer from various types of allergies. Conditions can vary from severe ones to day-to-day allergic issues. Severe allergic issues can be asthma, eczema, dermatitis, and latex.

There are also some day-to-day allergies that are not really dangerous in any way, such as a running nose, itching, and skin rash. However, if not cured in time, they can lead to severe body issues. To cure an allergy in time, there are a number of best anti-allergy products available.

Due to change in the weather conditions and other environmental changes, there is an ever-increasing number of allergies that are usually very annoying and make life unpleasant as you even have to give up on your favorite things due to them sometimes. There are a few allergies that are extremely dangerous and can even lead to death.

Allergy makes a person feel sick, low, and sometimes even worse. Allergy causes hypertension, which makes a person uncomfortable and also slows down their immune system, which is harmful! However, thankfully, there are some anti-allergy products that are available for the best treatment of allergies.

There are different precautionary techniques or preventive measures that people follow like using soft bed sheets, pillows, and not wearing harsh clothes in the case of a skin allergy. Still, no one is actually sure of why these problems arise.

What are the different types of anti-allergy products that best treat allergies?
There are many reasons that cause an allergy; these can be from pollution, dust, animal skin or hair, food, or sometimes even medication. Keeping pets can cause animal allergy, not having suitable food can cause food allergy, and so on. Different doctors recommend different medications depending on your type of allergy. Sometimes, homemade medicines and remedies can cure allergy in a much better way, and this is preferred by a lot of people rather than consulting a doctor for acute allergies.

Firstly, what you need to do is analyze what is causing your allergy. Is it seasonal or regular? It is your responsibility to take care of your own health with the help of some of the best anti-allergy products, and these products will ensure that your life is more pleasant and comfortable. However, ensure that the products you choose to use for the treatment of your allergy are tested and approved.

Clean your nostrils with Neti pot kit daily
Majorly, allergies are caused by inhaling dust and other toxic substances. Neti pot is one of the best natural medications that will in preventing toxic dust and pollutants from entering your airways. Neti pot is filled with an antiseptic sodium solution that is to be poured in your nostrils to clean your airways. The solution can be made with the help of normal salt and boiled distilled water. After preparing the solution, pour it into your nostrils with the help of a Neti pot.

Air purifier
If you have a pet at home, having an air purifier is a must. Air purifiers help you deal with the pet’s leftovers and molds. The air purifier will keep the air in your home fresh, making you and your family free from airborne allergies like dust and pollution.

Raw honey
It might appear odd to you, but raw honey acts as one of the best anti-allergy products. Don’t go with how good or bad it tastes, consuming raw honey will surely cure and control seasonal allergies very easily. Adding one tablespoon of raw honey to your everyday diet will make your body strong and will also generate tolerance power and enhance your immune system to fight against allergies. It is considered one of the best anti-allergy natural products.

Apple Cider Vinegar
If you are prone to allergies, Apple Cider Vinegar is here for you. People have been using this anti-allergic product to fight allergies for years. You can take Apple Cider Vinegar with a glass of water or with lemon juice when you wake up in the morning, and it will surely help cure allergic problems.

Probiotics
It is a fact that behind every allergic problem, one factor that is common is a weak immune system, which makes the body more prone to allergic diseases. Probiotics help in building a strong immune system. Some kids are born with allergic problems, so here comes the role of consuming beneficial bacteria that can cure allergies. Adding probiotics to the diet can also help a pregnant woman nurture her kid to be allergy free.

Quercetin
The natural and best anti-allergy product is quercetin. It is a natural ingredient found in plants and vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, onions, green tea, and black coffee. Quercetin is an effective meditation technique to reduce allergy, and it releases histamines and helps in controlling allergy at an early stage. It is one of the long-term remedies as it takes time to start showing its positive effects.

So, these are some of the best anti-allergy products that you must use if you’re prone to allergies to stabilize your immune system.