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3 helpful tips to manage breast cancer

3 helpful tips to manage breast cancer

Cancer is a term used to describe a group of diseases caused due to the growth and multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. Breast cancer is when this abnormal growth starts in the breast. Around one in eight women are at risk of developing the condition. The most common sign is a lump in the breast or armpit. Here are some treatments, nutritional choices, and lifestyle changes that can help manage breast cancer:

Get the right treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for breast cancer yet. The various available treatments focus on reducing this condition’s symptoms and slowing cancer’s spread. Popular options include oral therapies, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Here is a closer look at two well-known treatments:

  • CAR T-cell therapy
    CAR-T cell therapy (chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy) is a form of immunotherapy that can help treat many different types of cancer. It uses the individual’s own immune cells to fight the harmful cells in the body. Immune cells, or T cells, are extracted from the patient’s blood and modified in a laboratory. The modified cells are then injected back into the bloodstream. They are now more capable of fighting the disease. Over the last few years, CAR-T cell therapy has progressed significantly. Health researchers are constantly conducting trials to check how effective this therapy is in fighting breast cancer.
  • AFINITOR
    AFINITOR is another treatment option, but it is used for particular types of breast cancer. For instance, it treats postmenopausal women with advanced hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer. The option is mainly recommended to those who have stopped responding to specific other treatments generally used for this condition. AFINITOR works by stopping the cancer cells in the breast from getting the energy needed to survive and multiply in the body. Adverse side effects include non-infectious pneumonitis, hyperglycemia, and bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Individuals could also have hypersensitivity, renal failure, stomatitis, and poor wound healing.

Note that these treatments are not suitable for every case of breast cancer. Doctors will suggest treatments based on the severity of the condition and the individual’s overall health, among other factors. It is best to talk to a healthcare professional before starting any treatments.

Make the right food choices
While treatments can help manage breast cancer, individuals should also take other steps that support ongoing treatment and stay healthy. A proper nutrition plan is one such supportive measure. Studies have shown that a few foods help manage breast cancer better and even prevent it to some extent. Here are some examples to consider:

  • Leafy green vegetables
    Spinach, mustard greens, and kale have anticancer properties. They contain antioxidants like lutein and carotene that have been linked with a reduced risk of breast cancer. So, one can add these veggies to the meals to ensure they receive these antioxidants and keep the condition at bay.
  • Fatty fish
    Fatty fish like salmon and sardines have many health benefits, thanks to abundant omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of fatty fish on breast cancer, studies have shown that adding them to meals can help slow down the disease and reduce the risk of development.
  • Citrus fruits
    Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes contain several essential nutrients, such as vitamin C, folate, carotenoids, and antioxidants. These are known to reduce inflammation in the body, fight oxidation, and even reduce cancer risk.
  • Cruciferous vegetables
    Cruciferous veggies like cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli contain glucosinolate compounds. These compounds break down into isothiocyanates in the body, which are known to have potential anticancer effects.
  • Fermented foods
    Fermented foods contain tons of essential nutrients to help people tackle breast cancer. The popular options are kimchi, yogurt, miso, and sauerkraut. Studies have found that this positive effect comes from the immune-boosting effects of probiotics in these foods.

While many foods help fight and prevent breast and other cancers, a few can do more harm. These include fast foods like French fries and processed meats like ham and sausage. They can aggravate the condition in patients and increase the risk of occurrence in those who do not have cancer. Artificial preservatives and sugars are equally harmful and should be avoided.

Follow a healthy lifestyle
Besides food, individuals can support their breast cancer treatment with lifestyle changes that boost their overall health. Here are a few tips:

  • Exercise regularly
    Exercise and physical activity can help reduce fatigue that results from breast cancer treatment. It can also help lower the risk of the disease. Experts recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Exercise also helps relieve the stress most patients experience when fighting chronic diseases. Further, it can help build muscle, regain strength, and boost fitness levels.
  • Go for regular checkups
    Individuals should visit a doctor regularly to check the progression of the disease and have treatments modified as and when the need arises. Those who do not have breast cancer but are at risk should perform physical breast exams. This includes checking for lumps by themselves. In addition, routine mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and MRIs help detect lumps and masses in the early stages of breast cancer.
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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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3 excellent ways to boost bone health

Many people don’t realize the importance of building and maintaining strong and healthy bones until their bones begin to weaken. Bones protect vital organs and store important nutrients and minerals. However, common diseases like osteoporosis, which affects about 10 million people in the country, can make the bone weak and more likely to break. Fortunately, osteoporosis and other diseases that affect the bone can be managed and even prevented with these simple tips: Treatment options For women with osteoporosis, an excellent treatment option is EVENITY®. The FDA has approved it to treat osteoporosis in women after menopause. Those looking for an effective bone strengthening treatment must know that EVENITY® works in two ways to treat osteoporosis: it boosts the body’s natural ability to form new bone and reduces bone loss simultaneously. It’s one of the only treatments to target these two critical aspects of bone health simultaneously. Studies conducted on EVENITY® found that it helps build new bones rapidly and reduces the risk of spine fracture in 12 months. It consists of two shots (single dose) given under the skin monthly by a healthcare provider. Like every other treatment, EVENITY® comes with certain side effects. The most common side effects are joint pain and headaches. Revamp your meal plan The right nutrients are crucial for strengthening bones and maintaining overall bone health. Certain foods are packed with specific nutrients that are beneficial for the bones. Conversely, others can adversely affect bone health. Some of the best foods for bone health include: Calcium-rich foods Calcium is naturally found in the bones, the most important mineral for developing and maintaining optimal bone health. Bone cells break down constantly and are replaced by new ones, so one must consume foods containing calcium daily to protect the structure and strength of the bones. Some of the best sources of calcium include milk, yogurt, cheese, kefir, beans, tofu, almonds, spinach, collard greens, and sardines. Health experts recommend spreading calcium intake throughout the day instead of consuming one or more high-calcium foods. Foods high in vitamin D While calcium is essential for building strong bones, the body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. Besides, low vitamin D levels are associated with lower bone density and an increased risk of bone fracture. Sadly, many people are deficient in this vitamin. In addition to sun exposure, people can load up on foods high in vitamin D. These include fortified milk, fortified cereals, egg yolks, and oily fish such as salmon, trout, whitefish, and tuna. High-protein foods Contributing about 50%, protein is one of the building blocks of bone. Low intake of protein has been linked to decreased calcium absorption. Studies indicate that meal plans high in protein can help bone health as one grows older. Some of the best sources of protein include beans, peas, lentils, tofu, shrimp, milk, yogurt, lean beef, and salmon. While eating bone-friendly food is vital, one must also steer clear of foods that can lead to poor bone health, such as: Foods high in sodium When it comes to sodium, both too much and too little are bad for the bones. Excess sodium in the body can lower bone density and increase the risk of bone fractures, especially in people with low calcium levels. At the same time, very low amounts of sodium translate to a higher risk of osteoporosis. This is because sodium helps the body maintain healthy levels of magnesium and potassium, both of which are important for optimal bone health. So, go easy on table salt and sodium-loaded foods like salted nuts and all types of canned foods. Sugary foods and beverages Perhaps it’s hard to eliminate sugar, but one must remember that sugar can lower bone density. Too much sugar has been linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis. Also, those who drink sodas and fruit juices are more likely to suffer bone fractures. Limit all sugar-packed foods and beverages like pastries, candies, ice cream, sodas, sports drinks, and fruit juices. Caffeinated drinks Like salt and sugar, caffeine is fine in moderation, but too much is bad for the bones because it can decrease the amount of calcium the body absorbs. Drink no more than 300 mg to 400 mg of coffee daily to maintain strong bones. Live an active lifestyle Besides modifying meal plans, the only lifestyle change one needs to make to build strong and healthy bones is engaging in various exercises daily. One of the most effective types of exercises to boost bone health are weight-bearing exercises, which include walking, hiking, running, bicycling, low-impact aerobics, climbing stairs, dancing, tennis, and golf. In these exercises, the body fights against gravity to complete a movement, reducing bone loss and encouraging new bone formation.  People with a higher risk for weakened bones, such as those with osteoporosis, must make weight-bearing exercises a part of their daily routine. Another exercise that helps strengthen bones is resistance or strength training exercises. These include lifting weights, pulling weight, or doing push-ups, all of which help increase muscle mass, which help strengthen the bone and protect against bone loss.  One must also consider adding stretching exercises like yoga and tai chi into their routine. These exercises, which are also relaxation techniques, help improve balance and coordination in the body, which are important to reduce the risk of falling and breaking bones.

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