Organs in the body rely on a delicate balance of nutritional food intake and supplements to support peak performance. Sensory organs, especially the ears, are at a high risk of losing optimal function due to certain changes in daily foods and beverages. Some foods may not directly impact or trigger hearing loss. But deficiencies can certainly increase the risk of health complications that eventually affect hearing. Here are seven food sources that negatively influence hearing abilities. Foods rich in sodium Smoked, canned, and frozen cuts of meat, processed or prepackaged breads, grains, snacks, chips, and all other condiments used in cooking are all rich in sodium. Research shows that excess sodium intake increases blood pressure, restricts blood vessels, and lowers the blood flow to the cochlea (the part that converts sound into nerve impulses). These symptoms increase the risk of hearing loss associated with tinnitus and Meniere’s disease. Processed foods Salty chips, fried foods, ready-to-eat meals, packaged snacks, tinned vegetables, microwavable recipes, cakes, biscuits, and bread are commonly consumed as processed foods. These are loaded with saturated fats, trans fats, additives, artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives. Studies show excess intake of processed foods can lower hearing efficiency by 39% among adults.

Certain environmental factors are among the most common cancer-causing agents. However, when people discuss environment-based carcinogens, not many focus on the threats within the household. Several household items pose just as grave a danger as radiation exposure for vulnerable people. The risk is more significant as people spend more time indoors than away from home. That said, here are a few household items linked with cancer that one should vary of: Non-stick cookware Non-stick cookware is a staple commodity found in most, if not all, homes. Non-stick items are helpful to avoid soaking utensils in water overnight and scraping off stuck food from pans. However, non-stick cookware is created using a chemical compound named polytetrafluoroethylene. This chemical is the main component of such cookware’s “non-sticky” coating. Several research studies have found that polytetrafluoroethylene is a carcinogen and can cause other harmful health effects and allergies if consumed for long periods. While purchasing cookware, one can check the percentage of polytetrafluoroethylene and look for substitutes. Couches and sofas Now, couches and sofas are the default resting spots for most people. However, the health risk associated with couches and sofas goes much deeper than how they make people averse to daily exercise.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders among children. Its symptoms range from focus and attention problems to troubling behaviors depending on the severity of the condition. ADHD cannot be cured. But, it is possible to manage the symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening during adulthood. Doctors can suggest changes in daily nutrition to eliminate certain foods to better cope with symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Sweets Refined sugar is one of the primary ingredients to avoid as it is excessively used for making all sweets, candies, baked goods, confectioneries, frosting, and whipped cream. This list also includes artificial sweeteners used in beverages like colas, sodas, and store-bought fruit juices. Basically, anything that is artificially sweet will contain excessive refined sugars, causing inflammation of vital brain cells. Several studies have been done in this regard, with results pointing to the consumption of refined sugars as triggers hyperactivity among children. However, sugar is not a direct cause or trigger. Overconsumption mainly triggers problems with anxiety, depression, memory, and focus in general, all difficulties that are associated with neurological problems like ADHD. Limiting or eliminating sugars helps improve the overall outlook with ongoing treatment. Store-bought processed foods Many foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket contain some form of additive or preservative added to improve its shelf life.

Seasonal allergies each year bring symptoms like sneezing, sniffling, runny nose, and itchy eyes. While treatments can help relieve some allergy symptoms, the effect is enhanced when one makes better food choices. So, it is important to know which foods can help one deal with seasonal allergies. Some nutrient-rich options can help lower inflammation in the body. However, one should consult a healthcare specialist before making drastic changes to meals. Onions Foods like onions, garlic, berries, citrus fruits, leafy vegetables, and apples are rich in quercetin. Quercetin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties. It helps in bringing down histamine production in the body, alleviating symptoms of seasonal allergies. The decreased production of histamine lowers the intensity of allergic reactions. Adding these foods to meal meals, especially in preparation for the allergy season, is a great way of getting nutrients and keeping symptoms at bay. These foods can also help one recover after a major allergic reaction. Yogurt Probiotics are essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. They contain bacteria that improve gut health and strengthen immunity. Yogurt contains probiotics, helping the immune system fight infections. Other items rich in probiotics are fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an inflammation of the esophagus that is caused by a white blood cell called an eosinophil. The disease has mostly been recorded in Caucasian males and can lead to esophageal narrowing over time. The treatment for EoE is generally supported by changes in one’s food intake as well. Doctors generally recommend eliminating certain foods to discover the underlying triggers for every individual. Some common foods to avoid for those suffering from EOE include: Soy Soy is a common allergen for many people and may trigger immune system responses as severe as an anaphylactic shock. Common soy-based foods include edamame, tofu, tempeh, soy butter, soy sauce, soy milk, and miso. It is also a common ingredient in many plant-based meats. Doctors may recommend going off of this high-allergen food group for six weeks, to check if reports improve. Dairy products Lactose is notoriously known as an allergen for many people. It is the main protein in most dairy products and can be difficult to digest, thus triggering different allergic responses. Depending on the person’s sensitivity levels, some may be able to continue enjoying baked goods with cow’s milk, while others may have to steer clear of any dairy products entirely.

Having a pearly white smile is a dream for many people. Luckily, there are lots of things you can do, even on a slim budget, to achieve that smile. From routine oral hygiene and home whitening treatments to teeth alignment devices like veneers and aligners, the world of aesthetic dentistry has advanced by leaps and bounds over the years. Here are five simple yet valuable tips for getting that perfect smile. Brush with the right toothbrush Brushing is the most important pillar for maintaining oral health. When done regularly, it helps eliminate the dirt, grime, and bacteria in the mouth. However, it is essential to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle. Brushing with a hard brush or being too aggressive could erode the enamel, making your teeth appear more yellow. Make regular visits to the dentist Keeping up with your dental appointments is essential. Visit the dentist once every six months or every year to flag any potential dental risks and maintain optimal oral health. Opt for aligners or other teeth-straightening procedures There are plenty of procedures for those worried about a crooked smile, but braces and invisible aligners are perhaps the most popular for addressing the issue. If you want a quick fix to make your smile more aesthetic, check out other procedures at your dentist’s office, like shaping, veneers, or bonding.

Medical science has made notable progress in making life easier. It deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of health conditions. Doctors use various techniques, such as prescription options, surgery, and other treatments, to reduce pain and improve the overall quality of life for those with health issues. Treatments fall into three categories: curing illnesses, relieving symptoms, and preventing the onset of health conditions. The following are some of the most common medical treatments: Non-surgical procedures Non-surgical procedures can help diagnose, measure, and treat injuries or ailments. Doctors use these methods to understand the severity of the disease and determine the best course of treatment for patients. Common diagnostic techniques include: Lab tests: These involve testing bodily fluids such as blood and urine tests. Imaging tests: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) are non-invasive diagnostic tools that generate images indicating activities inside the body. Endoscopy: A procedure in which a thin tube (endoscope) is inserted into the body for a visual examination. This procedure is used for treatments like a colonoscopy (examination of the bowel), gastroscopy (stomach), cystoscopy (bladder), bronchoscopy (lung airways), and laparoscopy (abdomen). Therapy Therapeutic procedures improve or cure a condition and help restore function.

Arthritis is a collective term to describe more than 100 types of joint pain or joint diseases and other related complications. If left unchecked, the pain caused by the condition could be disabling and interfere with one’s ability to perform daily tasks. One can resort to treatments and therapies to manage the symptoms of arthritis. At the same time, one can make lifestyle changes such as eating healthy foods like nuts and seeds to improve their condition. Walnuts Rich in ALA, adding walnuts to one’s meals can significantly help curb the symptoms of arthritis. The food is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids that help lower the C-reactive protein (CRP – a marker of inflammation that may heighten the risk of arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. One could add walnuts to meatless dishes and with other healthy foods like stir-fried broccoli with chopped garlic. Peanuts Eating a handful of unsalted peanuts throughout the day will ensure the body receives a healthy source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These properties may lower unhealthy low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk. They can also introduce magnesium to one’s system, which will keep blood sugar in control. Subsequently, controlling these conditions may contribute to improved symptoms of arthritis.

Migraines are headaches that cause severe pulsing or throbbing sensations, usually on one side of the head. The headaches may be accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last a few hours to a few days, and the pain may become severe enough to interfere with one’s daily activities. Thankfully, patients can employ self-help remedies and lifestyle modifications to manage the condition better. Managing migraine pain – Mistakes to avoid According to the Migraine Research Foundation, migraine is one of the most misunderstood and undiagnosed conditions. Many patients make mistakes while managing the pain, leading to other health complications. Below are some common mistakes migraine suffers make and solutions to help one manage the symptoms better: Consuming too much caffeine Although small amounts of caffeine can relieve headaches, an excess can have the opposite effect and trigger migraine attacks. Multiple studies have shown that consuming 100 mg of caffeine per day increases the risk of headaches three-fold. Hence, avoiding or eliminating coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages is suggested to manage the condition. Skipping meals or eating unhealthy foods Foods with MSG, aspartame, and nitrates can trigger migraine headaches or worsen the symptoms and should be avoided.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic health condition involving the accumulation of eosinophil, a type of white blood cell, in the esophagus or food pipe. Besides experiencing symptoms like trouble swallowing and chest and abdominal pain, patients with EoE may also grapple with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or regurgitation of gastric acid from the stomach to the esophagus. While healing from EoE, incorporating certain foods into one’s meal plan may help fight EoE-induced acid reflux: Ginger Ginger contains several antioxidants and is a common home remedy for treating nausea, vomiting, and other digestive problems. Moreover, gingerol, a natural element in ginger, enhances gastrointestinal motility, or the efficiency with which food passes through the stomach. Ginger is also highly effective in treating throat conditions, boosting immunity to help the body fight the agents causing these diseases. Due to such combined benefits of ginger for the throat and stomach, this ingredient is excellent for treating EoE-induced acid reflux. Chopped or julienned ginger may be added to stir-fries, soups, gravies, etc.; alternatively, ginger tea is a soothing and nutritious beverage. Oatmeal Oatmeal is a rich source of soluble fiber, which dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance in the stomach. Such foods prevent the displacement of stomach acid and facilitate a sense of satiety.