ADHD, short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a mental health condition commonly observed in children between the ages of 3 and 7. It can also be diagnosed later in life and continue into adulthood if left untreated. ADHD primarily affects one’s behavior patterns, making one seem restless, have trouble concentrating, and feel hyperactive. While the disorder can be treated with remedies and behavioral therapy, certain foods can help ADHD patients manage their symptoms better. Can food affect ADHD? Yes, studies show that food and ADHD are closely associated. A Harvard study has proven that people who eat healthily are able to regulate their emotions better, manage stress, and enhance their brain functions. What foods should ADHD patients avoid? People with ADHD must be mindful of their eating habits because certain foods tend to aggravate its symptoms. Candies It is advised for one to reduce or completely stop having foods with refined sugar and saturated fat. The refined carbs in packaged sugar candies trigger a quick spike, followed by a crash in blood glucose levels. While the spike causes hyperactivity, the crash in sugar level leaves people feeling spacey, confused, and inattentive. Cakes and frosting Cake mix and frostings are loaded with artificial sweeteners and refined sugar, which causes hyperactivity.

ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a mental health condition related to neurodevelopmental issues in kids. Even though the disorder may start to show up during childhood, it can continue even as the child grows into an adult. The condition is marked by heightened impulsivity and hyperactivity. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can make a difference in the child’s condition. Parents can opt for virtual mental health care sessions or online therapy for their child. Besides therapy, it is essential to keep an eye on the foods that the child eats. Here’s a list of four foods that a child with ADHD should avoid to prevent worsening of symptoms. Foods with higher GI Food items or carbohydrates like white rice, corn syrup, honey, candy, sugar-coated cereals for breakfast, potatoes without skin, cornflakes, etc., should be avoided if a person is suffering from ADHD. These foods contain higher levels of glycemic index or GI. When these foods are consumed, the pancreas is stimulated to secrete more insulin in the blood. This impacts sugar levels in the bloodstream. The sugar is emptied fast from the blood to the cells causing an imbalance supply of sugar. This imbalance can affect the brain cells and aggravate certain conditions, including ADHD.

Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all residents in the country. Moreover, a multifold increase in medical costs has made it difficult to afford decent healthcare without insurance. But with so many plans and policies available for Medicare, Medicaid, and Medigap, choosing the right one can be challenging. It is also important to note and avoid these common mistakes while planning for healthcare coverage for self and one’s family. Here are some to avoid: Not researching properly You have to do primary research to understand the options for health insurance. For example, United Healthcare (UHC) offers exclusive Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) benefits to qualifying applicants covering Medicare and Medicaid. Seniors above 65, those with special needs due to disabilities, and citizens eligible in the low-income criteria can apply for particular insurance policies by UHC. These criteria also impact part A and part B premiums payable for 2022. Without research, you might miss several of these benefits provided by private insurance companies. Taking insufficient coverage Policy coverage is one of the critical factors to consider when choosing health insurance plans. The first point to consider here is the average waiting period for the policies to activate and cover expenses.

Water is one of the most essential components for the survival of all living organisms. However, rapid urbanization and industrialization over the last few decades have led to an increase in the contamination of water sources in the country. Even with multiple facilities designed for filtration and purification, drinking water can have hazardous elements that increase the risk of known chronic diseases and severe illnesses. Here is a look at the consequences of water contamination: Health concerns As the human body is made up of nearly 70% water, most organs and functions are affected by consuming contaminated water. Here are the common consequences: Heavy metal contamination issues Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury increase the risk of developing cancer in the liver, bladder, or lungs. Long-term consumption can affect neurological development among kids affecting their cognitive skills. Women drinking contaminated water during pregnancy are at substantial risk of developing fetal malformations. Heavy metals like arsenic can also be introduced into breast milk, affecting the health of breastfed newborns. Respiratory issues and autoimmune disorders Byproducts of chlorine and other chemicals used for disinfection can mix with groundwater. These chemicals adversely affect the upper respiratory tract, causing chest pain and lung irritation.

Eosinophilic esophagitis, widely known as EoE, is an allergic condition of the esophagus – the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. When a person suffers from it, their esophagus becomes inflamed and unable to contract. This condition can lead to the development of abscesses or rings, and the body employs eosinophils, better known as white blood cells, to counter it. It can happen at any age, and the symptoms vary between persons. Symptoms Eosinophilic esophagitis is a disease that is often confused with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) due to matching symptoms. The symptoms of the condition differ with age and can also vary from one patient to another, but may include trouble while swallowing, food getting stuck in the throat, upper abdominal and chest pain, heartburn, and vomiting. Causes and risk factors This condition develops when eosinophils build up in the esophagus, causing discomfort and inflammation. Multiple factors like food allergies, history of the disease in the family, and climatic conditions may put a person at risk of developing this health condition. Food allergies Food allergies are one of the biggest risk factors as it triggers the eosinophils to travel to the esophagus. It can sometimes even lead to medical emergencies and may require the assistance of a healthcare professional.

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic autoimmune condition that involves the accumulation of eosinophil, a white-blood-cell type, in the esophagus. Although its exact cause is unclear, it is speculated that the disease results from exposure to external agents like dust, pollen, and animal dander. Its advanced stages can cause the gradual narrowing of the esophagus. It is important to understand eosinophilic esophagitis information, such as the symptoms and foods that can help manage the condition. Symptoms Dysphagia Dysphagia, or difficulty with swallowing, is a common symptom among patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). This symptom becomes more severe as the condition advances. Impaction Impaction is the sensation of food being stuck in the throat and may be accompanied by choking, breathing difficulties, and vomiting. Chest pain Patients with EoE might experience chronic chest pain that does not subside with prescriptions and other interventions. Abdominal pain EoE is also linked with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and poor appetite. Foods recommended for people with EoE Coconut Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, coconut helps in soothing the throat. Thus, it is recommended for individuals with EoE. One can opt for coconut milk or add coconut pieces to fruit salad to enhance its palatability. Oatmeal Oatmeal is packed with nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and antioxidants.

Some people often experience chronic stabbing pain in their heels, especially when they get out of bed. The phenomenon is caused because of a health condition called plantar fasciitis. It affects the lower region of an individual’s foot. The pain caused by the condition leads to immense discomfort and unbearable pain that may affect one’s ability to indulge in daily activities like walking. But with the right footwear, one can improve, cope and manage the condition. Mistakes with picking footwear for plantar fasciitis One must find footwear ideal for the gait and foot anatomy, as it helps prevent stress injuries. Many people go to a store and purchase a pair of shoes based on a sales associate’s input or how attractive the kicks look. However, this selection process is flawed as it does not account for the essential comfort factors needed for people with plantar fasciitis. Moreover, shoes that are uncomfortable due to under or oversized, cushioned, or structured footwear may lead to an altered gait pattern, causing more discomfort. Choosing the right shoes Healthcare experts like physical therapists and podiatrists do not prescribe a specific type of shoe for plantar fasciitis. Each person is evaluated differently to understand which shoe is suitable for their situation.

Multiple myeloma is a rare health condition involving cancer of plasma cells. Plasma cells secrete immunoglobulin or antibodies responsible for fighting infections and boosting the immune system. Cancerous plasma cells begin developing in the bone marrow in patients with multiple myeloma. The exact causes of multiple myeloma are unknown; however, factors like benzene exposure, age, and specific ethnic backgrounds have been linked with it. This article analyzes various myeloma stages, prognosis, symptoms, and treatment options. Stages of Multiple Myeloma Multiple myeloma stages are typically classified using one of two distinct evaluation systems – the Durie-Salmon staging method and the International Staging System (ISS): Durie-Salmon staging This staging method classifies multiple myeloma into three stages based on factors such as the number of myeloma cells, hemoglobin and albumin counts, the amount of M-protein in one’s blood or urine, calcium levels in the blood, and the level of bone damage caused by myeloma cells. This method also classifies myeloma into Group A or Group B, wherein A indicates no damage to kidneys, whereas B implies kidney damage. A person could be classified as Stage IIB, for example. International Staging System (ISS) The following aspects are considered under ISS: Albumin levels The average albumin level is 3.5 to 5.5 mg/dL.