9 ways coffee helps lower diabetes risk

9 ways coffee helps lower diabetes risk

Coffee is more than just a morning drink; it’s a nutritious beverage when consumed in moderation. Coffee is packed with antioxidants that fight stress, and it can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. While it’s not a cure for diabetes, understanding how coffee and diabetes are linked can benefit regular coffee drinkers. Exploring the details of this connection provides valuable insights, adding another reason for coffee lovers to enjoy their daily cup of Joe. Diabetes and its global impact Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects millions today and is an increasing concern. Elevated blood glucose levels characterize it. There are two primary types: type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Both of these pose significant health challenges, including cardiovascular issues, kidney problems, and nerve damage. Given the global prevalence of diabetes, any potential preventive measures, including those related to daily habits, must be considered carefully. Ways in which coffee helps with diabetes prevention and management Here are a few ways how coffee helps in the prevention and management of diabetes: 1. Is rich in antioxidants Coffee’s health profile shines brightly due to its high antioxidant content. These compounds are renowned for combating oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage.
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Top 8 benefits of fish oil supplements

Top 8 benefits of fish oil supplements

Including omega-3-rich foods in meals is vital, as unlike other types of fats, the human body cannot make them. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that build cell membranes and help reduce inflammation. Most fatty fish, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of this nutrient. However, those who don’t eat fish or are allergic to nuts can opt for fish oil supplements, which offer many health benefits, as mentioned below: 1. Lower inflammation Low inflammation levels are necessary to avoid the risk of diabetes and numerous other health concerns. People who are at a higher risk of diabetes have higher levels of inflammation in the body and, thereby, elevated cortisol levels and decreased brain function. Having fish oil supplements improves cognitive well-being and reduces inflammation. It can also improve the chances of avoiding conditions like cancer, arthritis, brain disorders, and heart diseases. Optimum levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body help reduce the risk of heart attacks by up to 9%. It also helps reduce triglyceride levels, which can help with plaque buildup in the heart vessels. 2. Improve cognition Those who take fish oil show improved mental capability. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to benefit brain and heart health.
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12 surprising health benefits of a foot massage

12 surprising health benefits of a foot massage

Self-care, be it for health or any other reason, is important. While the hair and face get ample care, the feet are often not looked after as much as they deserve. One effective way to boost overall health is through a foot massage. A good foot massage can have many health benefits besides relaxation and reduced stress levels. Here’s why foot massages should be incorporated into one’s self-care routine: 1. Boosts blood circulation The type of work most people do nowadays requires them to sit at their desks for hours on end without much movement. Due to a sedentary lifestyle and little to no regular exercise, there is a lack of muscle movement in the feet. Moreover, uncomfortable shoes block blood circulation in the feet, leading to muscle stiffness and foot pain. A 10- to 15-minute foot massage session before bed helps improve blood circulation. Regular foot massages stimulate blood flow and increase circulation, thereby retaining muscle strength. 2. Keeps the feet healthy One of the main benefits of a foot massage is healthy feet. Regular massages will make spotting foot problems such as sores, ingrown toenails, dry and cracked heels, and corns easy. Weekly massages can help keep the feet moisturized.
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Sports drinks vs water – Which is the better option

Sports drinks vs water – Which is the better option

The sports drink industry is a multibillion-dollar one and is growing exponentially, projected to be worth about 30 billion dollars by 2030. With funky colors, ergonomic bottles, and certain benefits, sports drinks do seem like a tastier option than water, but should they be? Let’s take a look at the reasons why sports drinks can be a good idea and the broader reasons why they shouldn’t be a replacement for water. What are sports drinks? Though water is the basis for sports drinks, they are so much more than flavored water. These drinks include essential elements meant to replenish electrolytes lost while sweating during a strenuous workout and re-energize one with an adequate supply of carbohydrates, sodium, potassium, and amino acids. This balance of nutrients allows for enhanced performance, quick recovery from fatigue, proper hydration, cramp prevention, and temperature regulation. Replenishing electrolytes becomes essential during sweating, as imbalances can hinder proper hydration, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and increased heart rate. Therefore, sipping on a sports drink can help prevent these issues by restoring lost electrolytes. Though sports drinks are often vilified for their sugar content, they can, in fact, be beneficial by rapidly improving physical performance, especially during high-intensity or outdoor exercises.
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Thyroid eye disease – Symptoms, causes, and management

Thyroid eye disease – Symptoms, causes, and management

Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune condition in which the eye muscles and tissues behind the eyes become inflamed, and as a result, they protrude. People living with this condition have red and swollen eyes and eyelids. A delay in addressing and managing the condition can cause varying degrees of vision impairment. For a timely diagnosis, knowing how the condition manifests is essential. On that note, here are a few details about thyroid eye disease. Symptoms of thyroid eye disease Here are some of a few symptoms that can help healthcare professionals diagnose the condition in their patients: 1. Prominent bags under the eyes One of the most noticeable indicators of thyroid eye disease is darkened lumps or “bags” under the eyes. While this may also be caused by a lack of sleep, they are more likely to be indicative of thyroid eye disease, especially if they are noticeable for an extended period of time. Undereye bags can also cause eye pain. This pain is particularly felt when one moves the eyes. 2. Red and watery eyes Inflammation of the eyes and the optic region is another symptom of thyroid eye disease. The inflammation is quite evident, and the pain caused by it can be felt behind the eyes and around them.
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12 lesser-known side effects of antidepressants

12 lesser-known side effects of antidepressants

Antidepressants are oral treatment methods for those diagnosed with mood disorders. There are several types, or classes, of these treatments, each with varying degrees of efficacy. Most antidepressants have side effects, but usually, age, genetic composition, and the antidepressant type determine the likelihood of reaction. While some are common, there are also several side effects that not many people know are a result of antidepressants, and they may be misconstrued as a reaction to something else. Conditions managed by antidepressants Most commonly, antidepressants are given to people diagnosed with clinical depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder, bulimia, or panic disorder. That said, these treatments are usually only used to treat severe or chronic conditions. Psychotherapy, consulting, physical therapy, or a combination of these treatments can help improve one’s symptoms. Side effects of antidepressants Suppose a person experiences any of the following symptoms while on antidepressants; they should consult their doctor immediately. A healthcare expert can not only adjust the treatment but also help with managing the condition better. Here are some side effects that shouldn’t be ignored: 1. Change in the body’s acetylcholine levels Antidepressants can change the level of acetylcholine, which is a chemical in one’s body that helps maintain physiological functions like cardiac health, blood pressure, and glandular secretion.
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Spinal muscular atrophy – Causes, symptoms, and management

Spinal muscular atrophy – Causes, symptoms, and management

Spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA, is generally observed in infants and young children. An inherited health disorder, SMA affects the muscles and nerves. Since the disease is degenerative, it causes progressive muscle decline, leading to mild or severe disability. While it is not preventable, it helps to learn all about it to seek timely diagnosis and treatment. To get started, here are some common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for spinal muscular atrophy. Causes of SMA The most common forms of SMA, that is, types 0 to 4, are caused by missing or mutated genes. Under usual circumstances, a gene known as SMN1 releases the SMN protein, which helps the motor neurons to thrive and function properly. But in some cases, the SMN1 gene is mutated or is missing. This usually happens when a child has two copies of the malfunctioning gene, each inherited from one parent. Therefore, those who have SMA are not able to make enough SMN protein. Subsequently, the motor neurons are unable to grow, and instead, they start to shrink and die out. The overall effect of this is the brain is unable to control most of the voluntary movements, typically involving movement in the neck, arms, head, and legs.
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7 effective natural remedies for indigestion

7 effective natural remedies for indigestion

Indigestion can often be managed with home remedies and lifestyle changes. However, if indigestion is accompanied by other symptoms that indicate an illness, it is always best to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment options. That being said, some home remedies may also help provide relief from indigestion. But before trying any of the following remedies, make sure you are not allergic to them and consult a healthcare professional if there are any adverse reactions. Chamomile tea This is a well-known remedy to induce sleep and calm anxiety. Chamomile tea has other benefits, including easing gut discomfort by reducing the stomach acid found in the gastrointestinal tract and acting as an anti-inflammatory agent to relieve pain. To prepare chamomile tea, simply place a tea bag in one cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the water to a cup and add some honey for taste. Sip on the mixture to help soothe the stomach and relax.  If one’s on blood thinners, it’s important to consult a doctor before trying this remedy to ensure there are no reactions. Apple cider vinegar There are a range of health benefits associated with apple cider vinegar, with one of the most popular being its ability to improve skin health.
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Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast.
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Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Things to know about chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease   occurs when there is a gradual failure of kidney function due to illnesses, genetics, etc. The kidneys’ main role is to filter waste matter and flush out excess bodily fluids, but advanced kidney failure causes fluids, electrolytes, and waste to build up in the body. Various factors must be understood to manage the condition, including the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and more. Read on to learn more about chronic kidney disease. Causes of chronic kidney disease The main causes of chronic kidney disease are as follows: Diabetes When the body’s sugar levels are too high and become unmanageable, bodily organs stop functioning as normal. The first to be affected are the kidneys, leading to diabetes, which, in turn, affects the nerves, eyes, and heart.   High blood pressure This is when blood pressure against the walls of the blood vessels increases, and can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Hence, chronic kidney disease can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure.   Genetics Chronic kidney disease can also be passed down through the genes. Therefore if someone in your close family has the condition, it is likely to be passed down to you.   Autoimmune disease Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling of the small blood vessels, which are responsible for flushing waste out of the kidneys.  Birth disorder Sometimes, certain malfunctions of the kidneys develop in the mother’s womb and can cause infections and kidney damage later on in the person’s life.   Other causes Kidney stones or tumors can cause kidney damage or failure if not treated in time.  Glomerulonephritis It is a group of diseases that can cause inflammation in the filtering segments of the kidneys.
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