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10 foods that may trigger or worsen epilepsy symptoms

10 foods that may trigger or worsen epilepsy symptoms

The brain is a vital organ responsible for several bodily functions. Epilepsy is a central nervous system (neurological) disorder that affects the brain and prevents it from working correctly. The condition may cause unusual behavior and sensations, seizures, and sometimes loss of awareness. Many factors can trigger the symptoms of epilepsy, including certain foods. Those with the disorder are advised to steer clear of the following options to manage their symptoms better.

Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, a helpful stimulant that boosts energy for carrying out tasks at work or home. However, the beverage might not be the best for someone with epilepsy. Drinking too much coffee may trigger symptoms like seizures, which can lead to severe complications if not controlled. Therefore, patients are better off excluding this stimulant from their nutrition plan.

Bananas
Eating bananas regularly can have several health benefits. The fruit contains a substantial amount of potassium, which various body parts use to function well. Potassium may also help transfer electrical signals in the brain. However, eating too many bananas in a day may increase the body’s potassium levels. Excessive levels of this mineral in the brain may lead to symptoms of epilepsy, including seizures. One banana a day should not have adverse effects, but it is best to speak to a healthcare expert before changing a meal plan.

Chocolate
Individuals diagnosed with epilepsy should steer clear of chocolate. Like coffee, chocolate has caffeine, although in smaller amounts. Enjoying some chocolate is fine occasionally, but regular consumption may trigger the symptoms. The caffeine absorbed by the body may change the brain’s electrical signals, leading to complications.

Cookies
It is no secret that highly processed foods and those rich in sugars like cookies are unhealthy. They increase the risk of several chronic ailments and raise blood sugar levels. A sudden spike in blood glucose might trigger the symptoms of epilepsy. Other sugar-rich foods one should avoid include cakes, candy, and white bread. Even sugary drinks may lead to problems in people with this neurological disorder.

Grapefruit
Grapefruit in itself may not trigger the symptoms of the condition. But eating the fruit or drinking its juice while using epilepsy treatments may lead to complications. Grapefruit contains a naturally occurring chemical that may interfere with ongoing treatments. It may reduce their impact or lead to side effects. In either case, the individual may suffer from increased seizures when eating this food.

Butter
Butter contains saturated and trans fats that are undoubtedly bad for health. Including it in regular meals may raise unhealthy cholesterol levels in the body, increasing the risk of heart disease. Since individuals with epilepsy already have heart issues, eating butter often can be life-threatening. Other foods high in trans and saturated fats, including margarine, beef fat, and coconut oil, may also lead to epilepsy complications.

Artificial sweeteners
Many people resort to artificial sweeteners as an alternative to sugar without realizing they are equally bad for health. Studies show that individuals who eat foods with artificial sweeteners like aspartame are more likely to develop seizures. A few foods that contain these additives include candy, soda, pudding, canned food, jams, and jellies.

Food colorings
Adding colors to foods can increase their visual appeal but may harm people with this disease. While research is yet to determine how food colorings are linked to epilepsy, some individuals are said to have increased seizures when eating foods with added color. One can prevent complications by avoiding foods with labels that read “artificial color added” or “color added.” Note that some products may name individual color additives instead of printing a clear warning.

Soy
Soy and soy-based products should be excluded from the meals of children with epilepsy. These foods are known to trigger seizures and even cause allergic reactions in kids. Some products may not have labels indicating the presence of soy. So when shopping at the local store, one must be completely sure that the food does not have this ingredient.

Milk
Dairy products like milk and certain cheeses may act as allergens. Those who overeat these foods might also be susceptible to the symptoms of epilepsy, including seizures. Therefore, individuals should reduce the amount of dairy-based foods in their nutrition regimen to manage this neurological disorder.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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Beware of these 5 household items that can increase cancer risk

Cancer is one of the leading conditions with fatal conditions affecting people worldwide. The condition is characterized by an uncontrolled mutation of healthy cells that get destroyed while spreading, affecting vital organs and functions. Several risk factors and triggers are involved based on the type of cancer and exposure. However, unbeknownst to many, certain daily-use household items can increase one's risk of getting the condition. Five such instances where risk is high are discussed below. Household furniture Preservatives are added to increase the durability and shelf life of certain products. But one of the significant carcinogens linked to cancer, called formaldehyde, is heavily used in household furniture installations and furnishings. Unknowingly, people are at risk of developing this chronic illness due to repeated exposure due to certain materials used in making furniture and home upgrades. Common items like plywood, particle boards, paneling, foam insulation, wall paint, wallpapers, synthetic fabrics used in furnishing, and even many cosmetic products contain this preservative. These products release the fumes of the preservative. If the house is not airy or there is no proper ventilation, one could be actively inhaling this carcinogen, increasing the risk of known cancers. Cosmetic products Even beauty products contain certain chemicals and preservatives that expose the skin and body to cancer. Hair dyes, shampoos, hair fall treatments, and dandruff treatments contain coal tar, a byproduct of coal processing. This compound has been linked to many types of cancer, including lung, kidney, skin, bladder, and digestive tract cancers. In addition, moisturizers, makeup products, and even shaving creams contain parabens, a chemical preservative and active carcinogen. Body washes and antibacterial soaps also contain a preservative called triclosan added to mainly counter bacterial infections. And the infamous talc, a common powder found in blushes, bronzers, makeup powders, and eye shadows, is said to contain asbestos. Asbestos is a natural mineral, but when mixed with talc, the mineral can trigger the formation of cancer-causing agents. It is one of the reasons why many brands are actively shifting towards organic solutions for daily use makeup and accessories. Nonstick cookware Nonstick cookware might simplify preparing recipes by ensuring the ingredients don't stick to the surface. However, eating foods prepared with these utensils raises several health concerns, including cancer risk. The nonstick surface of such appliances contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance PFAS and synthetic chemicals to make the coating stick resistant. Scientists and health experts have referred to these compounds as 'forever chemicals' as these chemicals remain in the body. The longer these compounds take to be removed from the body, the higher the chance of carcinogen risk. Therefore, experts advise using a cast iron skillet or stainless-steel utensils as much as possible instead of nonstick cookware. It will limit exposure to PFAS. Air fresheners Air fresheners are one of the most widely used household products. Air fresheners are available as canned sprays, vapor gels, and even scented candles. But what many fail to notice is the hundreds of chemicals that go into manufacturing this product. One simple spray contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and preservatives like formaldehyde, phthalates, and dichlorobenzene. All these chemicals are added to make the product more fragrant, increase its shelf life, and even boost its effectiveness. However, repeated exposure to such carcinogens increases the risk of cancer affecting the respiratory system. Children and pregnant women are more likely to develop chronic illnesses with repeated exposure to this product. Cleaning supplies Ironically, the products designed to keep one's home clean and habitable are also some of the primary cancer-causing triggers that go unnoticed. Common products include oven cleaners, furniture polish, floor polish, rug cleaners, upholstery cleaners, dry cleaning chemicals, detergents, dishwashing soap, and even chlorine bleach. All these products contain a combination of volatile organic compounds and several carcinogens that increases cancer risk with repeated exposure. Most of the exposure is firsthand as the products directly release fumes that, when inhaled, can also trigger several chronic respiratory illnesses. If one notices discomfort after using these products for extended periods, it is advisable to check those symptoms. Health experts also advise switching to organic products that are free of common preservatives and chemicals, mainly if used for beauty and cosmetic purposes.

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