Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are painful blisters that appear on the lips and the surrounding areas. These blisters can be seen in groups of 10 or individually and are caused by the Type 1 or Type 2 herpes virus. The infections can be painful and make one feel sick for days at a stretch. These cold sores may be manipulated by the food eaten; hence some food items are better avoided. Coping with cold sores – foods to avoid Food and nutrient intake plays a vital role in overall health, including lip health. If one finds themselves prone to cold sores, it’s important to check the foods taken in because this condition results from various factors, and food can be one of the primary triggers. Curry In general, spicy foods should be avoided by patients prone to cold sores. One of the reasons is that a highly spicy meal may irritate the area around the mouth. It increases the discomfort caused by the condition and can heighten the problems suffered by the patient. Instead, one can try a stew, mashed potatoes, or even a mild casserole for the main meal. Pickle Salty foods rich in vinegar can cause irritating sensations in people suffering from cold blisters.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic health condition that leads to thick, scaly, red patches on the skin. It mainly affects the ankles, hands, or feet, and patients experience severe itchiness in these regions. Although eczema is more common in children, people of any age can get it. Doctors recommend several treatments and home remedies to manage the condition. Here are three kinds of soaps that can aggravate eczema: Soaps with MCI or MI MCI (methylchloroisothiazolinone) and MI (methylisothiazolinone) are chemicals found in many liquid soaps and personal care products to preserve them and prevent bacteria formation. While these may be safe for others, they can harm eczema patients. It has been found that MCI and MI can trigger this health condition’s symptoms and cause several allergic reactions. These chemicals can also lead to neurotoxicity or, more simply, damage the nervous system. Soaps with cocamidopropyl betaine This compound is derived from coconuts and is a common allergen. Studies have found that direct contact with this chemical can lead to skin issues in those with eczema, such as itchiness, rashes, and redness. Therefore, people dealing with eczema and other skin disorders should avoid products containing this. The compound is usually found in detergents, cosmetic products, and skin cleansers.

Following a thorough dental care routine is imperative for healthy teeth and gums. Many foods and beverages hinder oral health and cause problems like tooth decay, cavities, tooth abscess, chewing trouble, pain, and even gum diseases like gingivitis. On noticing any such tooth problems, one should alert the dentist. Depending on the symptoms, the expert may recommend treatments and other oral care tips to manage the condition and maintain healthy teeth. Worst foods and beverages for the teeth Various foods and beverages contribute to dental issues, which may cause severe discomfort if ignored. A common problem is plaque buildup, where a bacteria-filled sticky film gradually forms over the teeth. It is mainly caused due to sugary snacks, such as candy. Hence, one must ensure to avoid such foods. A few other examples are: Bread Bread might be a regular breakfast option, but it can cause tooth problems. When a person chews bread, the saliva breaks down the starch into sugar. Moreover, the bread turns into a gummy paste-like substance in the mouth, which sticks to the crevices between the teeth, causing cavities. Those who cannot do without bread may choose whole wheat varieties, as they contain fewer added sugars and do not break down easily.

Dementia is a broad term that refers to a collection of symptoms that may affect someone’s ability to think, remember, process information, or communicate. According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide, with ten million new cases diagnosed each year. Although the underlying causes of dementia may be varied, there are some key warning signs to watch out for. Seven early warning signs of dementia are: Subtle short-term memory changes A troubled memory is one of the earliest signs of dementia. Certain changes to short-term memory may include: Forgetting where they placed items Forgetting what they had for breakfast that morning Struggling to remember why they entered a particular room Forgetting about a given task Difficulty finding the right words A person with dementia may have a hard time explaining something or difficulty finding the right words to communicate their thoughts. Having a conversation with someone with dementia may be challenging and may even take a long time as they struggle to find the right words. Changes in mood Mood changes are also common with dementia. Depression is a common challenge in the early stages of dementia. Someone with dementia may also feel more fearful or anxious than before and may get upset if their routine changes.

Dementia is a condition that reduces the functionality of an individual’s brain. Among other symptoms, dementia weakens memory, social skills, and thinking abilities. Although dementia has no definitive cure, certain treatments can help people cope better with its symptoms. Research has found that eating the right foods can keep one’s brain healthy. Certain foods have more nutritional value than others; hence, they help keep dementia at bay. Check out a few such foods below. Salmon Fatty fishes like salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and lake trout are rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have various health benefits, including blood pressure regulation, keeping the digestive system healthy, and drastically reducing internal inflammation. Most importantly, salmon and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the likelihood of developing types of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease. One can include salmon in any meal throughout the day to reap its digestive benefits and keep their brain healthy. Leafy green vegetables Like fatty fish, leafy green veggies also find their way on ‘best foods’ lists. These foods are good for one’s brain health too. Leafy green vegetables are rich in B-complex vitamins and potassium, essential to keep the brain perpetually healthy.

People with migraines can experience painful throbbing and pulsing sensations on one side of their heads. More than 38 million people in the country are affected by migraines. The condition can also make it difficult to get enough rest at night, and insufficient sleep, in turn, triggers migraines. One can get the best mattresses and sleeping aides to address the issue, but here are certain things one should avoid before bed when dealing with migraines. Making unhealthy food choices Foods like chocolates, cheeses, and sausages contain beta-phenylethylamine, tyramine, nitrates, and nitrites, which may trigger migraines. Some foods may also increase histamine production in the body, worsening the condition. So, one of the important things to avoid before bed should avoid such foods before bedtime and stick to lighter foods like cherries, kiwi, pineapple, avocados, and bananas, which help increase serotonin levels, a chemical essential for better sleep. Indulging in excessive screen time Most people use their smartphones or watch something on television, laptop, or other electronic devices before bed. But these devices emit a blue light that can suppress melatonin production. A lack of this brain chemical results in poor sleep, which may trigger a headache or migraine. One affected by migraines should avoid watching horror movies before bed, as that may also suppress melatonin production.

Cancer is the abnormal mutation of healthy cells. Skin cancer is triggered by the uncontrolled multiplication of healthy skin cells caused by exposure to UV rays, chemical exposure, radiation, or underlying diseases. The causes and risk factors vary for the three major skin cancer types: Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Here are the visible markers and silent signs of skin cancer to note to help ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment. Unusual moles Significant forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma, may also trigger the development of skin-colored or pink moles. These are not harmless bumps and should be checked by a skincare specialist. A rare but critical form of amelanotic melanoma triggers the growth of these bumpy nodules that can develop unexpectedly without any prior indication of skin problems. Development of multiple dark patches Melanoma is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of skin cancer among adults. One of its glaring visible signs is the unusual and progressive development of dark-colored patches. While these may look like moles, doctors advise identifying the growth pattern of the extra skin. Multiple moles and patches may develop throughout the body, some black, others brown, and even reddish in color.

Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if diagnosed early. Effective treatment alternatives include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and excision. Oncology research studies have found that nutrition also plays a crucial role in preventing skin cancer and, in some cases, reducing the severity of its symptoms. Certain nutrient-rich foods can enable patients to build up their defenses against this condition. Here are some such incredible foods to add to the meal plan. Black tea Tea is rich in active compounds known as polyphenols, which have distinct anti-cancer effects. They can remove cancer cells by inhibiting cell cycle events, modify signaling pathways, and induce apoptosis. Polyphenols can also activate immune cells that have a debilitative effect on malignant skin cancer cells. This makes tea a refreshing alternative to the relatively caffeine-heavy coffee. Besides providing cancer-related benefits, the beverage can regulate blood pressure, cholesterol, stress levels, and mental health more efficiently. Walnuts Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chemical compounds that reduce the chances of skin cancer by maintaining a healthy cell-mediated immunity (CMI). Omega-3 stops the growth and spread of malignant cells. Walnuts contain loads of these fatty acids and can be used as a delicious snack, a side dish to a healthy meal, or a key ingredient in any refreshing dessert.

When one feels under the weather, eating the right foods may help provide relief. Even though an appetite may be close to nonexistent, one should not remain hungry, as fever burns more calories than the body does on a daily basis. Plus, when fighting off an infection, the body requires more nutrients and energy to strengthen the immune system. Hence, one must eat right and avoid certain food items to regain the lost strength. Fever – Top 6 foods to eat Even though one might not be in the mood or have an appetite when sick, one must eat nutrient-rich food to get stronger. Some of the best foods to eat during a fever are: Chicken soup A go-to meal during sickness, chicken soup has been consumed for generations. It’s not only easy to eat but also contains calories, vitamins, and minerals that the body needs while recovering from an illness. Furthermore, chicken soup is also a great source of liquids and electrolytes, which can be helpful if one is at risk of dehydration due to fever. Moreover, the broth is rich in collagen, which may promote recovery. Coconut water One of the ideal beverages to consume when sick, coconut water contains electrolytes which are needed along with fluids when one is sweating, vomiting or running a fever.

Tracking and detecting ovulation at home is an excellent way for couples to target the most fertile period of their menstrual cycles without professional intervention. Most people know when they are getting their period, even if they may not be able to recognize it. Common signs include tender breasts, cramps, increased sexual desire, etc. Since this isn’t an exact science, looking at more precise options can help increase the chances of conception. Five ways to detect ovulation at home are : Menstruation tracking Using an app to track your period each month can help predict your next ovulation date and fertile period. Most menstrual tracking apps are free and calculate all your past cycles so that you can have an accurate prediction. Alternatively, you can also use charts with paper and pencil to map out your ovulation cycle. Basal body temperature The body’s resting temperature is also known as basal body temperature or BBT. BBT dips slightly right before ovulation. Tracking your BBT every day can help you recognize this dip. To track it, check your temperature every morning and note it on a paper chart or a fertility app. This temperature must be taken before you get out of bed, so keep a basal thermometer within your reach before going to sleep.