When one cannot pass stools or finds it difficult to have a clean bowel movement at least three times a week, it is diagnosed as constipation. The bowel movement could be painful, and the stool could be small, hard and dry. Moreover, one could feel bloated before and after passing stools. While doctors may prescribe some treatment options, one can ease constipation by following a fiber-rich food regime. Causes of constipation Constipation is a common problem, affecting both children and adults but the cause of the condition may vary among children and adults. Young children may withhold their bowels or may not have adequate toilet training. Some may feel shy or repulsed at the idea of passing stools. Changes in food regime, inadequate hydration, and lack of fiber-rich foods can cause constipation in children. In adults, nutritional deficiencies, lack of adequate fiber, dehydration, and improper habits are the major reasons for constipation. In some cases, preexisting conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes, hypercalcemia, hyperthyroidism, and muscular dystrophy can also cause constipation. If one has had constipation for more than two weeks, experiences severe abdominal pain, or notices blood in stools, it is important to visit a doctor immediately. Doctors will prescribe treatment options that soften stools and conduct additional tests to identify the root cause of constipation.

Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can affect any organ in the body. If it affects the joints, one may experience pain and stiffness. Rashes and redness are common if they affect the skin. Fatigue and reduced kidney function are common if lupus affects the kidney. Lupus symptoms are characterized by periods of flares and remissions. There is no cure yet for lupus, but it is not fatal. Doctors treat lupus to reduce symptoms’ intensity, manage comorbidities, and reduce pain. Food and lupus Most people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or lupus have comorbidities like anemia, hypertension, or diabetes. Lupus puts patients at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. What they eat can help them manage lupus symptoms and reduce the risk of other cardiovascular diseases. A balanced meal plan with various food groups like vegetables, fruits, grains, protein, fats, and dairy is ideal for keeping lupus symptoms from flaring up. Since it is an autoimmune disease and an inflammatory condition, avoiding foods that can weaken immunity or trigger inflammation is essential. Foods to avoid for lupus While it is important to eat the right food, avoiding foods that can increase pain, cause mouth sores, increase kidney-related symptoms like swelling and high blood pressure, induce fatigue, or worsen anemia is equally important.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition wherein one’s immune system attacks the central nervous system. It is an inflammatory and autoimmune condition affecting speech, vision, and mobility. Persistent fatigue, tremors, vision issues, osteoporosis, and bladder problems are common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The food one consumes plays a significant role in managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Certain foods help improve symptoms and protect patients from frequent infections. This article discusses foods to avoid for multiple sclerosis. Impact of multiple sclerosis on the body MS occurs when the immune system harms the myelin, which is the protective coating of neurons in the brain and central nervous system. MS can result from demyelination, inflammation, loss of neurons, or gliosis. Lesions form in various regions of the central nervous system, causing symptoms to manifest based on the affected nerves. Environmental factors, infections, genetic factors, and a defective immune system can cause MS. The typical symptoms of MS include: Progressing weakness in one or several limbs Stiffness Weakness Imbalance Double vision Atrophy in the optic nerve Fatigue Chronic headache Short-term memory loss Lack of concentration Problems in chewing and swallowing Constipation Diarrhea Bladder problems Impotence Lack of interest in sexual activity The intensity of symptoms differs from one person to another.

Shortness of breath is one of lung cancer’s first symptoms and complications. It also leads to fluid accumulation in the lungs, preventing them from expanding when inhaling. Chest pain, bloody cough, and the chances of cancer spreading from the lungs to other parts of the body are some of the potential complications. Treatments aim to reduce symptoms’ intensity and improve the quality of life and life expectancy for those affected by lung cancer. Role of food in managing lung cancer Good nutrition should be the fundamental and underlying factor while preparing meals for a patient who has either been diagnosed with lung cancer or is undergoing treatment. What you eat can directly impact how your body fights cancer and responds to treatment. Oral and intravenous prescription treatments, chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy are normal treatments for any cancer, including lung cancer. Food can influence the speed with which the cancer cells spread, the efficacy of treatments, and prevent the chances of recurrence. For example, a sugar-rich meal can influence cancer cell growth. An ideal cancer meal should contain the following: Essential vitamins Folate Selenium Phytonutrients Antioxidants Dietary fiber Similarly, many foods are detrimental to people with lung cancer. These foods can worsen lung cancer symptoms, wheezing, chest pain, exhaustion, sudden weight loss, and bloody cough.

Thyroid cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the thyroid gland, which produces hormones that regulate body temperature, heart rate, and metabolism. It is the fifth most common cancer found in women in the country. This condition may not cause symptoms in the early stages and is often discovered during a routine neck examination or imaging scan. Knowing the risks, warning signs, and symptoms may help diagnose and treat the condition successfully. What is the thyroid gland? The small butterfly-shaped thyroid gland is situated around the trachea, at the base of the neck. It is one of the most vital hormone glands, affecting most bodily functions. The thyroid regulates the metabolism, growth, and development of the human body. The two main hormones secreted by the thyroid gland are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). What are the warning signs of thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer is classified by the type of cancer cell. Some of these include papillary cancer, follicular thyroid cancer, Hurthle cell cancer, sporadic medullary thyroid cancer, familial medullary thyroid cancer, anaplastic thyroid cancer, and thyroid lymphoma. Although it is tough to identify thyroid cancer until its advanced stages, here are some early warning signs to be wary of: Swollen lump on the neck An unusual lump, swelling, or nodule in the neck is generally one of the most common signs of thyroid cancer.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the esophagus -the muscular tube that allows food to pass from the throat to the stomach- causing discomfort. Various factors contribute to developing the condition or triggering flare-ups, including certain food items. Understanding these trigger factors helps patients explore alternatives that are healthy to eat while managing the condition. Keep reading to learn more about foods that worsen EoE symptoms and how to avoid them. Chocolate Unfortunately, chocolate can be a trigger for EoE. Studies suggest foods that carry a higher probability of causing heartburn or acid reflux can worsen eosinophilic esophagitis in patients. Chocolate is one such food that is counter-indicated for patients with heartburn. To avoid complications, satisfy your sweet tooth with carob-based treats or enjoy desserts with alternative ingredients. Nuts Peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and many other nuts can result in an allergic response. Intake of these nuts can trigger severe EoE symptoms. Allergic reaction in the body leads to increased inflammatory levels and swelling. Replace nuts and peanuts with seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or explore nut-free alternatives. Seafood Seafood is often considered one of the healthiest sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, shellfish and fish are also among the foods people can be allergic to.

The bladder is responsible for storing urine before it is flushed out of the body. Just like other organs, the bladder is susceptible to a range of complications due to factors like genetics and age. However, one may also unknowingly indulge in certain unhealthy habits that can affect bladder health. This could result in urinary tract infections, urinary retention, or urinary incontinence. So, here are a few habits one should avoid for a healthy bladder: Holding it in for too long One may choose to hold in urine when occupied at work or while watching a movie, attending a concert, or traveling. While these are rare situations, one should not make it a habit. Holding in urine for a long period could result in urinary infections, as the bladder may turn into a breeding ground for algae and bacteria. Further, delaying urination can cause the bladder to stretch. So, it is essential to pee whenever one feels the urge, as this can help maintain a healthy bladder. Not emptying the bladder Not peeing completely could be as bad as holding in urine for a long time. While this could be intentional when one is in a rush, it may also develop due to urinary retention.