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4 ways to ease psoriatic arthritis and its symptoms

4 ways to ease psoriatic arthritis and its symptoms

Nearly thirty percent of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis later in life. While the former targets the skin, the latter causes the immune system to affect the joints. Both are autoimmune disorders. Psoriatic arthritis causes joint pain, swelling, and inflammation, which can often be debilitating. There is no definitive cure for psoriatic arthritis. However, here are some treatment options, meal plans, and lifestyle tips that can help manage the symptoms:

Clinical treatment options
While psoriatic arthritis can be managed by making changes in nutrition and home remedies, it is crucial to be aware of clinical options too. This is because natural remedies may not provide immediate relief from worsening symptoms as compared to the clinical treatment options.

Otezla®
Inflammation is one of the significant and most problematic symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, which can make performing daily tasks difficult. This oral treatment option can help manage symptoms like joint swelling, tenderness, and pain. One of the advantages of using Otezla® is that it does not require initial or routine blood tests.

Rinvoq®
It is yet another treatment option used for managing various types of arthritis, including psoriatic arthritis. It helps effectively manage symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with psoriatic arthritis and also protects from irreversible joint damage. Apart from this, Rinvoq® has also been observed to provide relief from skin plaques.

Foods to eat 

Salmon
Rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is highly beneficial for those with inflammatory disorders like psoriatic arthritis. Additionally, salmon and other fatty fish such as albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, and lake trout can help to protect against heart diseases. It is recommended to include fatty fish in the meal plans at least twice a week to keep inflammation at bay.

Whole grains
This includes brown and wild rice, whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, bulgur wheat, and barley. These are packed with fiber and are helpful in maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels tend to cause inflammation of the blood vessel wall. This can trigger psoriatic arthritis symptoms. An average daily intake of 30 grams of whole wheat can benefit those with psoriatic arthritis. 

Garlic
It contains high levels of phytonutrients, which are potent inflammation-fighting nutrients. Garlic can be easily added to soups, curries, as well as salads. Raw as well as roasted garlic also helps to keep the immune system strong along with fighting inflammation. Powdered or packaged forms can deplete the nutrients, hence make sure you use fresh garlic. 

Foods to avoid

Fatty red meat
Fatty red meat is one of the worse foods that trigger psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Overconsumption of such food can lead to an increase in BMI, leading to inflammation flare-up. In addition, it can lower the effectiveness of prescribed treatment options and hinder the recovery process. 

Eggplant
Nightshade vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes have been known to trigger inflammation in some people. A regular intake of these foods can aggravate symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. This is because these vegetables contain solanine, a chemical that may trigger inflammation. However, eggplants, and other vegetables do not trigger psoriatic arthritis symptoms in everyone. A process of elimination can help determine if a person’s psoriatic arthritis is affected by the intake of certain vegetables.

Soda
Soda and other carbonated drinks are infused with high amounts of processed sugar. Intake of artificial sugar can lead to elevated levels of insulin in the body, which can easily trigger inflammation and aggravate arthritis symptoms. 

Tips for managing psoriatic arthritis

Moisturize the skin daily
One of the prominent symptoms of psoriatic arthritis is itchy, dry, and flaky skin, especially near the joints. Hence, doctors suggest applying creams, moisturizers, and emollients to prevent the same. Specific creams for treating psoriasis contain ingredients like coal tar and salicylic acid that can effectively treat dry and flaky skin. However, ensure that the moisturizers used do not cause any underlying conditions that might aggravate the condition.

Use aloe vera
Aloe vera has been long used for several autoimmune conditions, including psoriatic arthritis. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that not only treat skin wounds but also calm itchy and inflamed skin caused due to psoriatic arthritis. Aloe vera is one of the main ingredients in many topical creams. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor to use the same as some people are allergic to other components present in the plant that may aggravate other underlying health conditions which might worsen psoriatic arthritis.

Drink more water
Staying hydrated is essential for healthy skin. While it is recommended to drink eight glasses of water every day for hydration, the required quantity is different for everyone depending on the climatic condition of the location. For instance, people living in humid areas may require less water as compared to the ones living in hot and dry areas. However, it is crucial to maintain hydration as it can reduce the risk of joint inflammation and stiffness.

Psoriatic arthritis is a serious health disease. With the required treatment option, changes in meal plans and lifestyle can help ease the discomfort of the condition’s effect to a great extent. Make sure you consult a doctor as soon as you experience any symptoms of the disorder. 

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4 healthy foods for nursing mothers

Mothers who have recently delivered babies don't have sufficient nutrition due to the loss of blood and lactation. As a result, they have to carefully choose foods that are rich in calcium, carbohydrate, unsaturated fat, iron, folic acid, protein, and vitamins B6, B12, C, and D. Thankfully, healthy foods and supplements can help them regain strength and supply breastmilk to their newborns. The top four superfoods that can help nursing mothers include: Bananas Bananas are less expensive, available throughout the year, and considered a superfood for nursing moms. They are rich in nutrients, healthy carbs, vitamin B, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Bananas are also abundant in potassium, calcium, and pectin, a source of energy. Experts claim that having a banana every day can help moms regain the energy they need to take care of the baby and breastfeed. Potassium is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the mother's body and aids in the rampant transmission of nerve impulses.  Bananas can also aid in regulating blood pressure. It can prevent constipation, aid in regular bowel movements, and promote healthy gut bacteria. These fruits can provide about 1/4th of the vitamin B6 required for nursing moms, which is crucial for hemoglobin production and fighting antibodies. However, avoid bananas if you have allergies, a bout of cough and cold, or diabetes. Mothers can eat bananas after any meal or even add them to smoothies or pancakes as part of a meal. Fatty fish Fatty fish are naturally rich in vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. Fish like salmon and sardines are one of the few food sources of vitamin D, which is essential for mothers and their infants. A deficiency of vitamin D in infants, though uncommon now, can lead to weak and deformed bones. These fish also contain DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid essential for an infant's brain and heart development. DHA can be naturally found in breast milk if a mother eats fatty fish, eggs, or red meat. Omega-3 acids can also help in preventing postpartum depression. Mothers can choose from freshly caught fish, buy from verified farms, or use canned salmon. However, ensure that you have salmon or sardines twice a week to get its benefits and increase the production of breastmilk production. Homemade stock Soups and broths are wholesome and satisfying meals for nursing mothers. The most significant advantage of broths or soups is you can make large quantities and freeze them. The first three months can be hectic for new moms, which is why broths are perfect. They are nutritious, time savers, and can instantly replenish nutrients and strength. Mothers can use the bones and cartilage of chicken or lamb for meat broths. However, slow-cook them as the soup will have time to absorb all the nutrients and minerals from the meat and bones.  On the other hand, vegetarian mothers can make soups and broths of various vegetables and lentils. Bell pepper, carrots, celery stalks, french beans, lentils, mung, cottage cheese, and peas are ideal ingredients for vegetarian soups. Broths and soups can also help deal with postpartum depression and help regain bone density. It can also help reduce joint pain and strengthen joints right after childbirth. Leafy green vegetables It is widely known that green leafy vegetables contain multiple nutrients like vitamin A, C, E, and K, fiber, minerals, calcium, and antioxidants. Spinach has a high concentration of phytoestrogens and iron. When a nursing mom increases the intake of spinach, it raises the estrogen level and helps stimulate milk production. Phytoestrogens also help in regulating and reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels. They are low on calories; hence, you do not have to worry about gaining weight. One serving of green leafy vegetables daily is the recommended quantity for nursing moms.  Mothers can also eat broccoli and Swiss Chard, which are high in calcium and iron. The daily calcium requirement for nursing moms is about 1,300 milligrams a day. Kale or collard greens also can supply about 20% of the daily calcium requirement. Moms can also have milk and yogurt to ensure they receive the necessary supply of calcium. They can add greens to salads, smoothies, soups, or casseroles. Cigna breast pump Cigna is a global health service company that offers health, pharmacy, dental and supplemental insurance, and Medicare plans. You can get 100% of Cigna's insurance for hospital-grade and standard electric breast pumps with a prescription from your physician, midwife, or nurse practitioner. Cigna also covers the cost of renting a heavy-duty hospital-grade breast pump if a standard breast pump fails. Elvie Free Elvie, one of the brands covered by Cigna with a doctor's prescription, has introduced a revolutionary, silent wearable breast pump that women can discretely fit in their clothes. It is a wireless breast pump that can be operated through a smartphone. This easy-to-use pump can be used confidently and without any hassle. Since it is silent, it can be used anywhere without any disturbance or the need for privacy. Moreover, there are no tubes or pipes. It consists of five easy-to-assemble and clean components that make pumping clean and safe. If you're a new mother who wants to try out breast pumps, give this a try after consulting a doctor. 

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5 foods that can lower cancer risk

Can what we eat help prevent serious illnesses like cancer? The link between disease and foods has been extensively studied. For instance, the research findings of the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research have indicated that food choices greatly affect one’s health and well-being. The results also suggest that certain plant-based foods can help lower one’s cancer risk. So, here are some of the best foods to have: Garlic This pungent food item’s benefits outweigh the inconvenience (i.e., bad breath). Its odor is brought on by its sulfur compounds, which are also responsible for stopping the development of cancer-causing substances in the body. Additionally, garlic can help speed up DNA repair and kill cancer cells. Garlic also battles bacteria, especially the kind of bacteria associated with stomach cancer (H. Pylori bacteria). Studies have also indicated that garlic can reduce the risk of pancreatic, colon, esophageal, and breast cancer. To get the most out of garlic, peel and chop the garlic cloves and let them sit for 20–30 minutes before cooking them. This enables the activation of enzymes and the release of sulfur compounds. Adults should have one clove of garlic per day for better health. Broccoli Studies have suggested a link between cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and cabbage) and cancer prevention. A few lab studies showed that sulforaphane obtained from broccoli could help thwart the development and progression of the disease in several ways. Broccoli can be a great addition to meals to reduce the risk of prostate, lung, colon, and breast cancer. However, to get the most out of the vegetable, it should be steamed and consumed without being coated in greasy sauces or cheese. Berries Recent studies have pointed out that berry extracts can slow down the growth of cancerous cells, and among them, strawberry and raspberry extracts had the strongest effects on colon cancer cells. Both strawberry and raspberry are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and the phytochemical called ellagic acid, which is considered to lower the disease risk. Ellagic acid exhibits anti-cancer properties in laboratory tests. It can help increase the enzymes that destroy the cancer-causing substances and slow tumor growth. This phytochemical can also help prevent bladder, lung, skin, esophagus, and breast cancers. In addition, the berries also contain flavonoids, which suppress the production of an enzyme that damages DNA and has been linked to lung cancer. Other berries like blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries are also great additions to your nutritional regimen as they also exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Spinach Spinach is rich in carotenoids like zeaxanthin and lutein that can get rid of free radicals from the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to the body. Carotenoids are found in dark leafy vegetables like kale and spinach. An NIH-AARP study conducted with a sample size of nearly half a million people indicated that those who ate more spinach were less susceptible to cancer of the esophagus. Some research also says that this vegetable can help prevent ovarian, endometrial, mouth, lung, and colorectal cancers. Additionally, spinach is also high in folate and fiber, which can lower the risk of certain diseases. This superfood can also help produce new cells and repair DNA. It is best to lightly cook spinach leaves and add them to salads or soups; preparing it this way (or having it raw) can help one get the most lutein. Carrots Carrots are usually linked to eye health, but a lesser-known fact is that this vegetable is packed with nutrients that can help one fight diseases. Carrots contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that protects cell membranes from toxin-induced damage and slows down the growth of cancer cells. Additionally, the vegetable also contains phytochemicals, which can lower the risk of cancers of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and breast. However, cooked carrots can show better results than having them raw. Let the carrots rest after steaming or boiling them for about 15-20 minutes. Dice them when done so that the nutrients are not lost. Those affected by the disease should follow a balanced meal plan that includes one or more of these five food items. Further, better food choice becomes crucial in restoring strength and improving immunity when one is undergoing rigorous treatment for cancer. Treatment Doctors can recommend radiotherapy for certain kinds of cancer. A popular option recommended by doctors is Xofigo radium 223 cancer treatment—an injection used to treat prostate cancer that has spread to the bones. Xofigo contains radioactive material radium 223, which targets cancer cells. The cells absorb this material, leading to the release of radiation that travels a short distance to kill malignant cells. So, due to its limited range, surrounding healthy cells receive little or no radiation. The option is prescribed in these conditions: When hormone treatment stops working for patients When the illness does not respond to surgical treatment that lowers testosterone In male patients, radium-223 can help treat cancer that has spread to the bone but not to other parts of the body. While Xofigo radium 223 cancer treatment is suitable for female patients, it is usually not prescribed for women who are pregnant.

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