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How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar

How to reduce sugar intake and manage blood sugar

It is a known fact that too much sugar can be devastating for your health. When blood sugar is high, the body produces more insulin, which can lead to several health complications, including prediabetes and diabetes. So, you must cut down on sugar. Choosing healthy snacks and increasing fiber and probiotic intake can help. Moreover, regular exercise is essential. Here are a few tips to lower sugar intake and manage blood sugar levels naturally. Avoid carbohydrates A high intake of carbohydrates has a substantial impact on blood sugar levels. The body breaks down carbohydrates into sugars like glucose, which enters the blood. While the body requires glucose for energy, an excess can be harmful. As the amount of glucose increases, so does the amount of insulin produced by the body, leading to a greater risk of lifestyle disorders. Some foods with an abundance of carbs to stay away from are potato chips and donuts. Control your portion size If you are dealing with frequent blood sugar spikes, monitoring portion size can help. When you eat a large meal, blood glucose increases suddenly. To avoid this, eat smaller meals. You can opt for five to six small meals per day instead of two or three large ones.

Type 2 diabetes – 9 early signs to be aware of

Type 2 diabetes – 9 early signs to be aware of

Anyone who has type 2 diabetes or has someone suffering from it knows that it can be a life-altering condition. What’s even more alarming is that many people may not recognize the symptoms (like excessive hunger and fatigue) until it’s too late. This blog post will explore some of the significant signs of type 2 diabetes to look out for. We will also discuss the preventative measures to control high blood sugar. What is type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is a health condition usually resulting from high blood sugar levels in the body. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it produces effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. As diabetes is a progressive disease, those afflicted must regularly observe their blood sugar levels to stay healthy. They may also consult a nutritionist and receive a suitable prescription. Getting the right treatment necessitates identifying the symptoms of diabetes (or high blood sugar). The symptoms may be subtle or harmless, like increased thirst and hunger. However, persistent symptoms, such as fatigue and vision problems, must be checked. Early signs of type 2 diabetes that should not be ignored The sooner a person identifies the symptoms of high blood sugar, the sooner one can build a treatment plan to follow for a healthy life.

Managing diabetes – 7 foods to avoid

Managing diabetes – 7 foods to avoid

Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by excessive levels of blood sugar. It is a severe condition that has to be treated properly to avoid future complications. Making nutritional changes can prove effective to a great extent in managing diabetes. Avoiding certain food items in your daily meal plan can help your body regulate high blood sugar better and stay healthy. Below are some food items that are best avoided for people with diabetes. How do nutritional habits impact diabetes? A healthy, balanced meal plan comprising nutrient-rich foods low in sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods helps you manage diabetes better. People with diabetes must focus on eating whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats like olive oil rather than processed snacks or red meats. Sugar levels in the blood are sourced from carbohydrates taken in by a person. The more carbs eaten, the higher the blood glucose level will be, leading to conditions like diabetes. It necessitates cutting down on certain foods and drinks to keep your sugar in check. However, one must not avoid eating carbs altogether, as they are the body’s primary source of glucose and energy. Instead, eating controlled portions of carbs may help you approach diabetes management healthily.

Hyperglycemia – Causes, symptoms, and management

Hyperglycemia – Causes, symptoms, and management

According to experts, nearly 28.7 million people live with diabetes in the country. These statistics indicate the need to manage high blood sugar levels to keep this condition at bay. High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, contributes to several conditions like diabetes or kidney diseases. However, one can prevent or delay such complications by following healthy lifestyle habits and monitoring blood sugar levels. Read on to learn about hyperglycemia, its causes, symptoms, and management. Hyperglycemia Hyperglycemia is a condition that results from glucose concentration in the blood. Glucose is the body’s primary energy-providing source, which comes from the food you eat. On the other hand, insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas, responsible for releasing glucose as needed into the bloodstream to carry out day-to-day activities. The blood glucose level might fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors, including your physical activity and the food you eat. When the insulin level is too low, the cells cannot receive adequate energy for normal functioning. The lack of energy will force the pancreatic cells to secrete more insulin, which the body cannot use. It will, in turn, increase the glucose concentration in your blood, leading to hyperglycemia. Symptoms High blood sugar is associated with severe health ailments, including skin problems, dental diseases, heart problems, and neuropathy.

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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.

10 best laundry detergents and their features

Detergents are available in multiple forms, such as pods, powder, and liquids, and choosing the best one can be tough. In addition to daily wear clothing and regular laundry items, you could have some garments that require specialized products for effective cleaning. Some members of your family might have sensitive skin and need mild chemical-free products. So here is a list of the best detergents that can make your laundry task hassle-free. Gain Laundry Detergent Among the list of laundry detergents that are known for their fragrance is Gain Laundry Detergent. The liquid not only cleans your clothes but also gives them a delicate fragrance that can last for up to 6 weeks or until the garment is worn. This detergent can be used in all washing machines, including highly efficient ones. The detergent also has Oxi Boost, a combination of surfactants, enzymes, and pre-treaters that aid in eliminating stains and odors that could be two weeks old. Moreover, this product is available in multiple sizes to cater to the needs of every household. Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent Among the laundry detergents that excel in stain removal is Persil Proclean. This concentrated liquid offers deep cleaning and has stain-fighting enzymes.

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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.

Have these 14 foods to manage macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes changes in the macula, leading to vision loss. Though there is no cure for this condition, following an eye-healthy meal plan is important in managing complications like vision loss. A nutritional regime for age-related macular degeneration should include healthy amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some foods that contain eye-healthy vitamins that help manage symptoms of macular degeneration are listed below. Macular degeneration Age-related macular degeneration is a primary cause of vision loss among people aged 55 years and above. The condition refers to the deterioration of the central part of the retina called the macula. Symptoms include blurry vision, blind spots, difficulty recognizing faces, visual distortions, and more. Studies indicate that nearly 20 million people in the country live with some form of age-related macular degeneration. This condition occurs in two forms- the dry and the wet form. The dry type occurs when the macula gets thinner with age. This condition gradually progresses over the years. The dry form can advance into the wet type when abnormal blood vessels develop in the back of the eye and harm the macula. The wet type of AMD usually accelerates vision loss. Leafy green veggies Dark-green, leafy vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin.

9 ways to naturally whiten teeth at home

One can say that their smile is their biggest asset. But the color of teeth plays a huge role in deciding how confident one is when smiling. One’s teeth might turn yellow as they age, as the enamel wears away over time, revealing the pale teeth underneath. However, one can consider whitening their teeth to address the change in color. Teeth whitening does not always require expert assistance; one can use at-home whitening methods. What causes yellow teeth? Before looking for at-home teeth whitening remedies, one should understand the underlying conditions and causes of yellow teeth. Here are some common reasons for yellowing: Oral trauma or tooth injury Excessive sugar intake High coffee and tea intake Poor dental care and oral hygiene Excessive exposure to fluoride Side effects of treatment options Dry mouth or lack of saliva Teeth whitening solutions One can find whitening toothpaste and other products that improve the appearance and color of their teeth. However, one should be wary of harsh chemicals and abrasives. If one is looking for natural ways to whiten their teeth, they can choose a natural, mild, whitening toothpaste. Alternatively, several at-home whitening options can offer similar results with regular usage. Here are some natural ways to whiten teeth at home:

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