5 snacks that can help lower cholesterol levels People who struggle with high cholesterol levels tend to begin thinking more about everything they eat. Whether it’s a bowl of fruit or a delicious hamburger, they are left wondering how their choices will impact their numbers. While it is tempting to skip snacking altogether, a healthy snack can go a long way in maintaining metabolism as well as blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Changing the kinds of foods one eats can not only lower cholesterol levels but also improve fat levels through the bloodstream. Here are some great snacks that are extremely helpful in fighting cholesterol. Popcorn Popcorn can be low in calories when one eats a smart serving size and avoids the salt and butter. What’s more, it’s a whole grain full of fiber. Popcorn can be easily made at home by air popping it and adding some olive oil and a little bit of parmesan cheese or a few seasonings for some extra flavor. Using olive oil instead of butter helps lower the bad LDL cholesterol and increase the good HDL cholesterol. Nuts Peanuts, walnuts, almonds, etc. are great for the heart and are powerhouses of energy. Some studies have even demonstrated that nuts slightly lower the levels of bad LDL cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, one should eat ¼ th of a cup of nuts every day for a healthy heart. Vegetables Vegetables are a great source of essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals, all of which go a long way in helping lower LDL cholesterol. While they might not be the first snack that one voluntarily reaches out for, vegetables are required by the body. Vegetable snacking is easier when you buy pre-cut vegetables or prep some vegetables for a weekly ration. Snacking is made easier when you can simply grab a handful of carrots or bell peppers and dip them in some delicious hummus.

Arthritis is a group of diseases that can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain in the joints and can end up affecting people of all ethnic backgrounds, genders, and ages. Arthritis is of different types. One of the common types is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease wherein the joints come under attack by the immune system. Another common type is osteoarthritis, which develops due to overuse of the joints. Fortunately, there are certain foods that can help manage the condition effectively by relieving joint pain and also by easing any inflammation caused. Listed below are some of the best foods that can help people suffering from arthritis manage the condition more effectively. Fatty fish: Fatty fish such as trout, sardines, mackerel, and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids that possess potent anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that people consuming fatty fish showed decreased levels of specific inflammation-related compounds, less morning stiffness, and joint pain intensity. Fatty fish are also rich in vitamin D, which can help prevent symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. According to the AHA (American Heart Association), including a minimum of around two servings of fatty fish in one’s diet helps fight against inflammation effectively. Garlic: Garlic and its components are full of health benefits as they possess cancer-fighting properties and are also responsible for lowering the risks of dementia and heart disease. Additionally, garlic has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties which could go a long way in helping reduce the symptoms of arthritis and even in strengthening the immune system. Ginger: Apart from the fact that it lends ample flavor to sweets, soups, and teas, ginger has also been shown to help in easing the symptoms of arthritis. According to studies conducted, ginger has shown to improve knee pain symptoms in those who consumed it. It also showed that ginger and its components help in blocking the production of substances that increase inflammation in the body as well.

One may have come across the concept of keto recently or rather seen in recipes, food packing and all over the Internet. It is the form of diet that is unique in nature because of the food items that it contains. They have a mix of highly fatty foods and low carb foods. This kind of diet involves the reduction in the amount of carbohydrates that one consumes and replaced with the fats. The reduction in the amount of carbs that are taken into the body puts the body in a metabolic state that is termed as ketosis. In such a state the body becomes very efficient at burning down the fats in order to derive energy. In the liver the fats are converted into ketones that supply energy to the brain. Advantages of the keto foods Initially this diet was used in the treatment of seizures and it has been successful in reducing seizures for several years. When a person begins this sort of diet there are many metabolic changes that one experiences. Studies have proved that the parameters of health that are linked to carrying excessive weight get enhanced such as high blood pressure, high triglycerides and cholesterol and insulin resistance. As the body is adapting to the higher dietary fats that one consumes in this diet it results in an increase in the oxidation of fats. When the carbs are reduced it directly has an impact on the concentration of glucose and thereby lowering them as time passes. This diet could be considered as a direct means of getting the diabetes of a person under control. Disadvantages of keto foods As whole food groups are eliminated in this diet, the nutrients that had to be obtained from whole grains and fruits are restricted and can cause deficiencies especially if the keto diet is not followed correctly or if there is no proper guidance provided to the person.

Gout is a particular type of arthritis that is prevalent in the country and leads to severe pain and swelling in the joints, along with redness and tenderness. Excess uric acid in the body that is not excreted gets deposited in the joints in the form of crystals and leads to inflammation and swelling. People with gout are seen with swollen fingers, wrists, toes (especially the big toe), heels, and knees. When the uric acid content in the body goes up, it results in gout attacks that may last for 3 to 14 days. If left untreated, the condition can also lead to joint damage and deformity. This is extremely painful, but it can be managed with medication and a proper diet. Some foods trigger attacks as they raise uric acid levels, and this needs to be kept in mind while following a diet to manage the condition. Let’s take a look at the best diet for gout, including what foods to eat and what to avoid. What to eat The foods one is planning to eat should be low in purine and fructose as both of these can increase the risk of gout and trigger gout attacks. The best foods to include in the diet of gout patients are as mentioned: All kinds of nuts and seeds All types of legumes are safe like tofu, soybeans, lentils, and such Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and barley Plant-based oils like coconut, flaxseed, olive, and canola oil Any kind of dairy products are safe, but low-fat versions are better options All vegetables Beverages like green tea, coffee, and tea All herbs and spices All fruits, and cherries even help prevent gout attacks as they reduce inflammation and uric acid levels What not to eat High-purine foods should be avoided, along with high-fructose foods, as they are major threats to gout attacks.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic, lifelong disease that results in irritation and inflammation along the digestive tract. A Crohn’s flare-up could trigger or worsen symptoms including appetite loss, nausea, abdominal pain and cramping, bloating, and diarrhea, among others. When one eats the correct kinds of foods, it can help in managing and relieving such flare-ups. Herein, we discuss the best foods one can have in such instances. Refined grains Refine grains such as pasta are easy to digest. They possess less fermentable fiber as compared to whole grains and, hence, they pass quickly through the digestive tract. They also are less likely to cause inflammation and tend to be easier on the gut. Some examples of refined grains are rice snacks, waffles, pancakes, plain crackers, pasta, white rice and bread, and fortified ready-to-eat cereals that contain added essential minerals and vitamins. Oatmeal Oatmeal made from rolled/quick oats is a kind of refined grain that contains slightly lesser fiber as compared to steel-cut oats. When one experiences a Crohn’s flare-up, it’s best to avoid foods that contain insoluble fiber, which could worsen diarrhea symptoms. Oatmeal has a soluble fiber known as beta-glucan that helps in easing diarrhea by adding bulk to the stool by slowing digestion, and absorbing water in the intestines and forming a gel. Oats can be added to smoothies with low-fiber, peeled fruits. Low-fiber fruits Diarrhea can also be controlled by low-fiber fruits which are easy on the digestive system. Some examples of low-fiber fruits include peaches, cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew melon, and bananas, among others. During a Crohn’s flare-up, it is best to eat fruits in smaller servings. Poached/peeled fruit Removing the skin from fruits could end up reducing the insoluble fibers in them, like cellulose and lignin. Preserving or poaching fruits could also reduce the amount of fiber in them.

Healthy eating is easier said than done. The difficulty multiplies when you are living with a chronic disorder. Likewise, depending on the type of hemophilia someone has been detected with, the patient may or may not need to switch to an alternative diet. For hemophilia A patients, it might not be that big a deal. But that does not discount them from choosing healthy. Since making changes to the diet is difficult yet crucial to one’s health, it helps to start small. Here are some food groups, the absence of which in the diet can benefit hemophilia patients Saturated fats Common knowledge suggests that everyone should steer clear of saturated fats to maintain their health. It stands truer for patients with severe illnesses, including hemophilia. Saturated fats consumption can affect the patient’s heart, kidney, digestive system, and liver. Not to mention that obesity only adds to the potential risks associated with all these illnesses. Therefore, hemophilia patients should swap saturated fats with mono or poly unsaturated fats. Full-fat dairy Thanks to the calorie-conscious folks out there, everyone has access to low-fat foods. This has proven beneficial for more than just the weight-watchers. Substituting full-fat dairy products with low-fat goodness will have the added perks of multiple vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that they come with. It also saves people from the unrequired extra fat consumption. Goodbye to the loaded goods What we are talking about here is the foods that add to the calorie count. At the top of this list are fried foods that we all so dearly love. But, what we fail to realize is that the crispy fried wings and chicken popcorns we readily consume provide nothing more than empty calories. Apart from fried foods, you must steer clear from rich and creamy gravies and dressings. Sugar is nice or not?

Chronic myeloid leukemia, which is also called chronic myelogenous leukemia, is a cancer of the bone marrow. It essentially leads to the increased production of white blood cells in the blood. When an individual is battling leukemia, they may feel fatigued, and their immune system can get compromised. This makes proper nutrition intake extremely important. It helps patients feel better during and after the treatment by maintaining strength and speeding recovery. Here are some foods that can help people manage chronic myeloid leukemia. Protein-rich foods Protein is necessary for repairing cells and tissues and strengthening the immune system. It is recommended that people with chronic myeloid leukemia eat at least one meal a day that contains a good source of lean protein such as chicken, fish, or turkey. Some other protein-rich sources include eggs, soy and soy products, beans, nuts and nut butter, and low-fat dairy products. Probiotics These are healthy bacteria the stomach needs to manage food better and keep the body healthy. Yogurt is one of the most popular and easily available sources of probiotics. Make sure the label says “Live and Active Culture,” an indication that the yogurt has probiotics in it. Other good sources include kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, miso, and tempeh. Wide variety of fruits and vegetables The diet of individuals with chronic myeloid leukemia must consist of a variety of fruits and vegetables. Besides being rich in vitamins and minerals, these foods are packed with antioxidants and contain phytochemicals, which are known to fight cancer cells. One can top cereals with their favorite fruits, drink smoothies, or enjoy a bowl of berries for dessert. Try to include these fruits and veggies in the daily diet: apples, bananas, strawberries, leafy greens, cauliflower, and broccoli. Whole grains Whole grains are an excellent source of carbohydrates and fibers, both of which are required to maintain healthy energy levels during and after the treatment.

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that is mostly diagnosed at a young age. The blood doesn’t clot as it should in people with this disease, causing excessive bleeding, which can turn life-threatening. The condition largely occurs due to the absence of certain blood-clotting proteins (called clotting factors), although it can also be acquired due to an immune system issue. Physical therapy, clot-preserving medications, and vaccinations are viable treatment options. Alternatively, dietary choices can also help manage the symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the beneficial foods to eat for people with hemophilia: Whole grains Oatmeal, brown rice, and barley are a few of the healthiest whole grains to eat for hemophilia patients. These foods contain fiber and nutrients that help stabilize blood glucose levels. By lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke, these foods prevent serious complications associated with hemophilia. Whole grains also reduce chronic inflammation, which can be touted as a major contributor to internal bleeding. Calcium-rich foods Important for the growth and maintenance of the bones, calcium is paramount for hemophilia patients. The nutrient helps keep tooth and bone health in check, preventing damage and subsequent blood loss. Also, the lack of calcium increases the risk of several diseases, some of which are known to cause internal bleeding and muscle damage. Dairy products are the standout sources of calcium, along with fish like sardines and pilchards. Leafy greens Dark, leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach are loaded with minerals that can help manage hemophilia and its possible complications. Collard greens are also great options, as they’re a good source of vitamin K that helps in blood clotting. The vegetable might also prove useful in maintaining bone health. At the same time, cabbage and beet greens come with their own list of benefits for people with hemophilia.

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a rare type of blood-cell cancer that starts in the bone marrow. Generally common among older adults, this type of leukemia is caused due to spontaneous chromosome mutation. Treatments usually include chemotherapy, biological therapy, stem cell transplant, and targeted therapy. Along with these treatments, it is essential to pay close attention to diet as well. Here are a few important dietary recommendations for those with chronic myeloid leukemia. Eat lots of vegetables It is recommended that one should have steamed vegetables to get all the essential nutrients. Stir-fries are also a healthy option; a stir-fried meal of carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and an assortment of peppers not only tastes good but also has several important vitamins and minerals. Another option is making soups, especially from green leafy vegetables including chard, collard greens, mustard greens, kale, and spinach. Vegetable juice with low-sodium content is also recommended. Increase servings of fresh fruits Those suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia should have five to ten servings of fruits every day. Fresh fruits are one of the richest sources of nutrients that fight cancer cells. Fruits contain all the essential vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Make sure to add fruits to salads, breakfast cereals, yogurt, smoothies, pancakes, and wherever possible so that the daily dietary requirement is fulfilled. Eat tummy-soothing foods One of the most common treatment options for leukemia is chemotherapy. While this treatment kills cancerous cells, it wreaks havoc on the digestive system with side effects such as nausea and vomiting. At such times, it is advisable to eat foods that cool down the stomach. Avoid spicy foods and caffeine. Instead opt for crackers, camomile tea, popsicles, ginger ale, and other clear liquid-based food. Avoid uncooked food Chronic myeloid leukemia treatments often lead to low levels of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell.

Chronic myeloid leukemia or CML is a type of blood cancer caused due to genetic mutation of blood-forming cells called myeloid present in the bone marrow. Oncologists estimate that 15% of leukemia is of type CML. While there are treatments that can inhibit the disease, avoiding the following foods can help one better manage CML. Uncooked food Since leukemia is a type of blood cancer, it can cause various blood cell deficiencies like leukopenia and neutropenia. Unwashed, uncooked, or undercooked vegetables and fruits have dirt, pesticides, and other contaminants. Ingestion of the same can weaken the immune system. Blood deficiencies can make it difficult for the body to fight infections, making disease management difficult. Similarly, it is imperative to wash and cook raw meat properly to kill bacteria or any other pathogen that can be harmful to the body. Deli meat Deli meats such as sausages, ham, corned beef, beef jerky, bacon, and other frozen meats contain preservatives that increase shelf life. Oncologists suggest that these preservatives can be used by cancerous cells as fuel, which can accelerate their growth in the blood. This can be counterproductive even if the patient is undergoing treatment to suppress the growth of chronic myeloid leukemia. It is also recommended to avoid consuming raw eggs (runny yolk) and foods containing the same such as homemade mayonnaise and raw cookie dough. Processed foods Like deli meats, packaged foods such as chips, frozen pizza, ice creams, canned tuna, crackers, and even granola bars contain food additives like preservatives and taste enhancers. These lock their flavor for longer and increase their shelf life. However, these ingredients are harmful to a CML patient who is already suffering from blood deficiencies. Hence, it is highly recommended to eat freshly cooked food. Gluten Gluten is a type of protein found in whole grains like wheat, barley, and rye.