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4 foods that are bad for the lungs

4 foods that are bad for the lungs

Diseases like asthma affect the lungs, interfering with airflow and causing inflammation. Several treatment options help manage the symptoms like difficulty breathing and cough associated with these conditions. However, doctors and nutrition experts who treat patients also recommend lung-friendly meal plans to complement ongoing treatment. Some foods are bad for the organ and can worsen existing conditions. Below are a few such unhealthy foods that can prove detrimental to lung health:

Processed meat
Processed meats are the ones preserved by curing, salting, canning, or drying. Makers of such meat add salts, sugar, and synthetic preservatives to increase the product’s shelf life, retain its original color, and ensure the meat cooks faster. The most common chemical additive is nitrites, which can damage the lungs. Processed meat also contains advanced glycation end-products, or AGEs, which can cause inflammation and oxidative stress. Some examples of processed meat are ham, cured bacon, corned beef, beef jerky, sausages, salami, hot dogs, canned meat, and dried meat. Adding a lot of processed meat to the meal plan can lead to poor lung function and an increased risk of chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD).

Carbonated beverages
Health experts list carbonated beverages as one of the things to avoid with lung and respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. Soda, in particular, is unhealthy for pre-existing lung and respiratory diseases as sugar overload can increase inflammation. It contains high-fructose corn syrup and specific sodium salts, which are inflammatory agents. Sodas also have caffeine that can interfere with COPD and asthma treatment. Further, sodas and soft drinks may cause bloating, putting more pressure on the lungs and aggravating the symptoms.

High-fat dairy
Dairy products like cheese and ice cream have a compound that attaches to our brain receptors and creates a craving for more. It also increases mucus or phlegm secretion, forcing the body to work harder to expel it. If a person has asthma, emphysema, or COPD, it can lead to more intense wheezing and coughing. Cheese, full-fat milk, and ice cream also contain preservatives and added sugars that can trigger inflammation of the airways. If the symptoms are not severe, one can add a small amount of low-fat milk to the meal plan. But it is advisable to shift to plant-based dairy products like soymilk, almond milk, cottage cheese, and tofu in severe cases.

Fried foods
Meat and vegetables lose water when fried and absorb the fat content in the oil, becoming rich in calories. Also, packed or processed fried food is cooked at high temperatures using hydrogen gas to increase the food’s shelf file. This alters oil’s chemical structure, and trans fats are formed. Higher calories and trans fats can lead to bloating and increase the risk of lung diseases. Fried foods are harmful to even those who cook them because they may inhale the fumes of the trans fat, causing cough and putting further stress on their lungs.

The above foods can increase the risk of conditions like asthma, which one can manage with the following treatments:

Tezepelumab
The FDA has approved tezepelumab as an add-on maintenance treatment option for children above 12 and adults with severe asthma. It can block a specific protein called TSLP. This protein is found in excess in most asthma patients, which results in airway inflammation and aggravates the symptoms. Studies show that tezepelumab is safer and more efficient than many other treatments.

FASENRA
It is used to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in those above 12 years. Eosinophilic asthma results from an increase in a type of white blood cell called eosinophils. FASENRA works by controlling and reducing eosinophils. It is recommended to manage sudden and severe asthma attacks where the person’s current asthma treatment is ineffective. However, FASENRA is unsuitable for other eosinophilic conditions or sudden breathing difficulties. It can cause side effects like headaches and sore throat. Individuals should consult a doctor before using this treatment option to avoid complications, especially pregnant women and those with allergies.

NUCALA
NUCALA is another add-on treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma for patients above six years. It helps improve breathing and prevents severe asthma attacks. The treatment is easy to administer with the help of an autoinjector, and those above 12 years can choose an at-home administration option. NUCALA can cause severe reactions, so individuals must check with a doctor if they are allergic to any ingredient or compound. The side effects include swelling, breathing problems, dizziness, rashes, and hives. Before using this treatment, it is advisable to talk to a doctor and understand the dosage and impact.

XOLAIR
XOLAIR is a treatment for moderate to severe allergic asthma in patients above six years. It helps reduce the number of asthma attacks and may even eliminate the need for other treatments. XOLAIR is also used to treat chronic spontaneous urticaria or hives in individuals over 12 years. The dosage varies from person to person, and the benefits may begin to show after a few months.

ZYRTEC
Allergens in the air can trigger respiratory allergies. So, to counter the allergen, our body produces a chemical called histamine. Histamine causes symptoms like airway constriction, excess mucus production, and breathing difficulties, affecting lung health. ZYRTEC is an antihistamine that helps control our body’s response to allergens, thus preventing allergies and promoting lung health.

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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 tips to help prevent and manage prostate cancer

The prostate gland, found below the bladder, helps make and transport semen. Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the gland grow uncontrollably, eventually forming a tumor. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men in our country. Trouble urinating and blood in the urine are common symptoms, and the condition is curable if detected early. Here are the treatments, meal plans, and lifestyle tips that help prevent and manage prostate cancer: Get the right treatment Treatment is vital to kill harmful cells and stop the disease from spreading. Popular treatment options for prostate cancer are: Xofigo It is an FDA-approved option for treating metastatic prostate cancer in cases where the disease has spread to the bones but not other organs. Xofigo binds with bone minerals, delivering radiation directly to bone tumors. Doing so reduces damage to the nearby normal tissues. Its most common side effects include vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Enzalutamide It helps treat prostate cancer in men, where cancer has spread to other body parts. Enzalutamide is mainly used for those who do not get better with hormone therapy or other surgical treatments for lowering testosterone levels. It works by blocking the effects of a male reproductive hormone called androgen, which, in turn, stops cancer growth and further spread. Studies indicate that using Xofigo and enzalutamide simultaneously might produce better results in certain types of prostate cancer. But one must consult a doctor before using any of these treatment options. Follow healthier food habits While nutrition cannot cure prostate cancer, it can help manage the symptoms and lower the risk. The best foods are: Red fruits and vegetables Red fruits and vegetables like tomatoes and watermelons have a powerful antioxidant called lycopene. Many research studies point out that lycopene reduces the progression and growth of prostate cancer cells. However, picking ripened red fruits and veggies is essential as the antioxidant is known to be present in higher amounts in them. Protein-rich foods Individuals undergoing cancer treatment often feel tired and low on energy. Protein is essential as it helps energize the body and build muscle. The best protein-based foods include beans like kidney beans and pinto beans and different varieties of nuts. Lean poultry like fish and turkey are also suitable options. Soybeans The nutrient isoflavone has many health benefits and may also be linked to lower cancer risk. One can find this vital nutrient in tofu made from soybeans or soy products. Isoflavone is also present in chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts. High-fiber foods Research shows that high-fiber foods help lower overall calorie intake, which can help reduce the risk of cancer. Fiber also has other health benefits. For instance, those who include more fiber in their everyday meals have lungs that work better. Fiber-rich foods include peas, lentils, baked beans, chia seeds, quinoa, pears, and broccoli. Coffee Several research studies have shown that caffeine can lower the risk of several forms of cancer, including prostate cancer. This is mainly because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Besides helping with cancer, coffee can boost one's energy levels and fight other diseases. Individuals must avoid the following foods to lower prostate cancer risk and manage the condition: Red and processed meat A meal plan with high amounts of red meat is known to increase the risk of prostate cancer as they contain HCAs, a substance capable of producing cancer in living tissues. HCAs develop when one cooks red meat at high temperatures, such as grilling or broiling. Pork, beef, hot dogs, and sausages are some foods to avoid. Fatty foods Research has shown a strong link between saturated fats and an increased risk for prostate cancer. These fats are commonly found in butter, cheese, and meats like bacon and beef. Other typical sources of saturated fats include pastries, candies, and many types of tinned or pre-packaged foods. One must ensure not to add high amounts of these to the meal plan. Make the right lifestyle modifications Besides getting the proper treatment and eating the right foods, certain lifestyle modifications also help manage and prevent prostate cancer: Regular exercise Consistent workouts help a person get out of their sedentary lifestyle and stay active, which goes a long way in preventing cancer. Activities like swimming, bicycling, running, and walking for just 30 minutes a day can boost metabolism, lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and improve overall health. Frequent intercourse A major study has proven that men who frequently ejaculate, either with or without their partner, are two-thirds less likely to be susceptible to prostate cancer. It is also theorized that ejaculation clears the body of toxins that could eventually cause inflammation. Lower stress Those dealing with chronic diseases like cancer often suffer from stress and anxiety, which can affect their quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to calm the mind and reduce stress levels. Mindful practices like breathing exercises help destress and rejuvenate the body by enabling better blood circulation. Prostate cancer is sometimes called the "disease of aging." While age, race, and genes are not something one can change, food habits and lifestyles are modifiable to stay healthy.

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