Almost a third of the population over the age of 60 in the country have experienced symptoms of constipation, which increases with age. An outcome of a poor lifestyle and diet, constipation is difficulty in passing stools or reduction in one’s bowel movement. This article lists foods that not only relieve constipation but are also better for bowel movements. Water: Water is probably the solution to half the health problems in the world. Since dehydration is one of the commonest causes of constipation, and drinking plenty of water can often help in easing or resolving the symptoms. Due to dehydration, the intestines are unable to add enough water to stools — this results in lumpy, dry, and hard stools, leading to constipation. Pulses: Most pulses such as peas, chickpeas, lentils, beans, and more are extremely rich in fiber, which is a nutrient that promotes good digestion and reduces constipation. According to a study conducted in 2017, 100 grams of cooked pulses pack in close to 26% of the daily recommended fiber intake. It also contains substantial quantities of other nutrients that help in easing constipation, such as vitamin B6, zinc, folate, and potassium. Broccoli: Broccoli is an extremely healthy vegetable and contains sulforaphane, which is a substance that could end up protecting the gut and easing digestion too. Sulforaphane could also help in preventing the overgrowth of some intestinal microorganisms, which could interfere with healthy digestion. Broccoli is also said to improve bowel movements. Yogurt and kefir: Probiotics are extremely effective in improving gut health. Many dairy products, including kefir and yogurt, contain microorganisms called probiotics, helping improve gut health and in softening stools. According to a 2014 study, 180 ml of unflavored probiotic yogurt every morning for two weeks improved bowel movements in those with chronic constipation. Fruits: Specific fruits such as pears, apples, grapes, kiwis, raspberries, and blackberries are helpful in solving the problem of constipation.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two conditions that contribute to the disease. There are several treatments for COPD, but each differs based on the severity of the disease. During treatments, one must ensure they maintain good energy levels and stay healthy. The best way to ensure this is done is by including nutritious foods in all their meals. Eating foods that help boost your energy if you have COPD is essential. You can still eat some comfort foods if you are losing weight, as breathing also burns more calories when you have COPD. Those who wish to watch their weight can eat energy or nutrient-packed foods. This will keep the calories in check and also help you feel good. If you get tired more often while eating or have trouble breathing, eat 4 to 6 smaller meals than 3 large meals. Additionally, you should eat enough but not completely fill your stomach so that you can relax. Breakfast is an important meal, those suffering from COPD get easily tired during the day. In this case, they can have a heavy breakfast, as it could work as an energy booster. Moreover, keep snacks which are healthy at hand, like nuts, to avoid saturated fats and unhealthy cholesterol. Oatmeal You can start your day with oatmeal which is rich in vitamin A, iron, calcium, and fiber. Having it with milk makes it more nutritious. The fiber content makes you feel fuller with fewer calories; you can also add berries instead of adding artificial sweeteners. Cheese You can add cheese to your vegetables, along with rice and potatoes, to increase the calorie count and nutrient value of any meal. The extra calcium is great as most medicines prescribed for COPD make the bones brittle.

Depression is a medical illness wherein a person’s moods, thoughts, actions, and emotions are adversely impacted by factors such as one’s biochemistry, genetics, personality, and environmental factors. It is a treatable disorder, but the stigma surrounding it has made most people hesitate to reach out for help. Once diagnosed, the individual can opt for medication and therapy as forms of treatment. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary changes go a long way in helping manage the condition. Food plays a huge role in the way one feels about the day. It affects one’s moods, energy levels, and enthusiasm. A diet deficient in any nutrient is likely to leave one feeling weak, but a healthy, well-balanced diet can be a useful method of treatment for most diseases.   There is no such diet that can relieve a person from depression. However, there are certain diet plans or types of food that can definitely help a person deal with the symptoms of depression in a better way. The overall health of a person is also improved with a healthy diet. Given below are foods that must be had, or avoided, to help boost mental health and fight depression. Molecules called free radicals are produced by the body normally, but these can damage the cells, lead to aging, as well as other problems. To be able to reduce the destructive impact of these molecules, one is advised to consume foods high in antioxidants. Sweet potato, broccoli, cantaloupe, apricots, spinach, carrots, pumpkin, peaches, and collards contain beta carotene. Examples of rich sources of vitamin C include tomatoes, blueberries, peppers, potatoes, kiwi, broccoli, strawberries, oranges, and grapefruits, while seeds and nuts, wheat germ, margarine, and vegetable oils contain vitamin E.  It is recommended to choose the kind of carbs consumed wisely, as the nutrient is linked to the mood-boosting brain chemical, serotonin.

One of the most difficult parts of suffering from diabetes is the inability to eat most things due to their sugar content. It is essential for a diabetic to stick to healthy snacks, but how many times can one munch on the same food item? Individuals have to choose snacks that contain high levels of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, helping keep blood sugar levels in control. Here are some great snack ideas for those who have diabetes: Hard-boiled eggs A super healthy snack for diabetics, hard-boiled eggs provide as much as 6 gm of protein per egg, keeping blood sugar levels in control and making one feel full as well. Yogurt with berries Yogurt with berries makes for a great diabetic snack due to various factors. Firstly, the berries’ antioxidants lessen inflammation, preventing pancreatic damage. They are also fibrous, helping slow digestion and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Yogurt is protein-rich and helps keep the blood sugar levels under control. What’s more, the two go beautifully together, with the tartness of the yogurt balancing the sweetness of the berries. Almonds Almonds are a convenient, nutritious snack for diabetes patients. 28 grams of almonds provide more than 15 minerals and vitamins. They have been found to reduce insulin levels in the body and benefit heart health by promoting weight management and lessening cholesterol levels. These are chief factors for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber in almonds is likely to stabilize blood sugar levels. Veggies and hummus Hummus is a great accompaniment to raw vegetables as the combination is an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. It is also protein-rich. Pair it with veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli. Avocado Snacking on avocados is a great way to manage blood sugar levels due to the monosaturated fatty acids and high fiber content in them.

Most times, headaches cause major discomfort in our regular activities which can lead to a lack of interest in completing tasks. Migraines are a severe form of headaches that causes intense pain that could last from a few hours to days on end. It can also affect other physical activities as well. Migraines are usually caused due to a lack of food and sleep; however, the exact cause of migraine is still unknown. Besides other treatment options, there are some foods that can help manage the condition effectively. Food habits to follow: Intake of vegetables and fruits – Vegetables and fruits have many beneficial factors and help our body in many ways. Whole and natural foods that contain no artificial flavoring and preservatives keep us healthy and avoid conditions such as migraine. Different types of fruits and vegetables in any color can act as pain relief in case of migraine. However, it is important to avoid citrus fruits as it can trigger a migraine. Natural sweeteners such as vanilla extract and maple syrup can also be beneficial. Healthy fresh meat – Always go for fresh meat and avoid processed meat. Fresh meat such as chicken, fish, or red meat are considered to be safe for those suffering from migraines. Red meat and salmon contain a good amount of vitamin B2 that helps in relieving migraine pain. Smoked and processed meat, however, contain a high amount of salt, preservatives, and artificial coloring that can trigger a migraine. Eat mini meals – Hunger is one of the most common reasons for migraines. Eating three large meals can leave you hungry very often and lead to headaches. Eating foods in small portions during the day reduces hunger and helps eradicate migraine. Make sure you eat enough to stay active throughout the day. Drink lots of water – Water has many benefits and helps our body in different ways.

Depression is a health condition characterized by feeling low and out of control of one’s moods for a long time period. Often, there is no specific cause this can be traced back to, but rather, it is the result of multiple factors at play at the same time. Depression has serious effects on one’s physical health and mental health. Individuals lose the motivation to indulge in hobbies, are listless throughout the day, and are unable to partake in their routine activities. Aside from medication and therapy, consuming the right food that can help boost mental health and fight depression is recommended. Foods that help manage the condition Just as some foods are good for the bones, there are some foods that go a long way in helping boost one’s mental health. Fighting depression is a gradual process, and the nutrients and foods listed below aid in the same. Omega-3 fatty acids Nuts like walnuts, fish, avocados are examples of food that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are among the favored foods to fight depression and boost mental health. Antioxidants Foods containing antioxidants help to fight the damage caused by free radicals, which in turn fights depression. Such foods are rich in vitamins. Proteins To help boost mental health in an individual, proteins should form a necessary part of their diet. Food items like eggs, chicken breast, and yogurt are protein-rich help boost mental health and fight depression in a person. Zinc Food containing zinc boosts the immune system of the body and also boosts mental health. Some examples are nuts, beans, and whole grains. Vitamin B Foods containing vitamin B aids in fighting depression and reducing mood swings. Some examples of food that are rich in vitamin B are eggs, oysters, fish, and whole grains. Mushrooms Research has shown that mushrooms are excellent to boost one’s mental health.

Diabetes is a deadly disease, not simply because of its symptoms but due to other complications it can cause. In this condition, the blood sugar levels or glucose levels are much higher than usual, and it can lead to many other problems like cancer, heart problems, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure. Diet plays a significant role in controlling the sugar levels of a person. Thus, it is imperative for a diabetic to control their food habits and also exercise regularly to keep parameters under check. Let’s learn about some interesting and healthy snacks for improving diabetes. To manage your blood sugar levels, you need to balance out what you eat and drink along with the amount of exercise you do daily. Along with eating healthy, it is also pertinent that you have snacks at regular intervals. Here are some tasty and healthy snacks for improving diabetes. Fish fillet Fish is a great source of protein without the ill effects of eating meat. In fact, having fatty fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, and sardines is even better as they have a high level of omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, that are amazing for heart health. They protect the cells lining the blood vessels and enhance the way the arteries function after eating. Grill them with very little oil and toss in some green vegetables and voila! You have one healthy snack for improving diabetes. Sauteed vegetables Leafy vegetables like spinach and kale are good sources of many minerals and vitamins, including vitamin C, which helps in reducing inflammatory markers and also fasting blood sugar levels for those with type 2 diabetes or even high blood pressure. Also, green leafy vegetables are a good source of antioxidants – zeaxanthin and lutein that protect the eyes from cataract and degeneration which are common complications of diabetes.

Atopic dermatitis, which is commonly referred to as eczema, is a medical condition in which areas of the skin become sore, red, cracked, and itchy. The skin tends to get coarse too in this condition. In extreme cases, there is an occurrence of blisters. According to official statistics released around 30% of individuals in the United States of America suffer from eczema. Though once occurred, it stays on in an individual but there have been cases when individuals do recover from it. Eczema occurs due to the inflammation in the body. In attempts to control and eventually reduce the symptoms of this medical condition, one needs to keep track of the food that he or she consumes. Herein, we further discuss the foods to eat and avoid for people with eczema. Foods to eat Vegetables Green leafy vegetables must be included in the diet of an eczema patient considerably. Wholegrain carbohydrate Instead of refined carbohydrates, wholegrain carbohydrates should be included in the diet. Seafood Include seafood regularly in your diet if you are an eczema patient. Fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are excellent as they are natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts Nuts are also beneficial to reduce inflammation and thus keep control of the symptoms. Vitamins Vitamins should be included in the diet along with flavonoids and minerals. It will greatly help in managing the symptoms of eczema. Potassium Food rich in potassium like bananas is good for eczema patients. Oats Oats are rich in fiber, zinc and vitamin E which helps to reduce the symptoms of this medical condition. Recent research shows that the inclusion of probiotics in the diet helps in the control of symptoms of eczema. Certain foods like yogurt, contain it naturally. Foods to avoid Depending on individuals to individuals, some food might generate the rise of symptoms in an eczema patient.

Gout or arthritis is one of the most common problems that affect both men and women at large. The symptoms of gout include severe pain in the joints, inflammation, and redness that causes extreme discomfort. Mainly, the big toe is affected, causing uneasiness while walking or doing normal chores. Other joints affected by gout include the knees, elbows, joints between the fingers, and such. It is mainly caused due to the accumulation of excess uric acid in the joints. The patients suffering from gout have to pay thorough attention to their regular diet so that they can keep the pain at bay. Here are some of the superfoods for gout to help prevent gout episodes. Superfoods for gout Patients suffering from gout should follow a strict diet to manage the condition, but the superfoods for gout are both delicious and healthy for the body. The foods prescribed for patients must have lower purine content as purine increases uric acid levels in the body. Here are some foods to help with the condition: Nuts Almost all types of nuts are considered to be superfoods for gout as they are loaded with vitamins and minerals, which help in regaining lost bone strength and repairing damaged tissues in the long run. Whole grains Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and barley are undoubtedly the best superfoods for gout. These are rich in fiber, which helps in maintaining a healthy gut. They are also loaded with nutrients and vitamins that cater to the body’s daily requirements. Legumes Legumes are highly recommended as one of the beneficial foods for patients of gout, especially because of the range of nutrients. Legumes like soybeans, lentils, tofu, and other types of beans are extremely helpful in reducing pain and inflammation of the affected region. Fruits Fruits ideally work wonders for health and are downright considered a superfood for gout.

When the normal functions of the large intestine (colon) are disturbed and one experiences crampy abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation or diarrhea, it is due to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). When one has IBS, the pattern of bowel movements might change over time, that is, bowel movements may occur either more often (diarrhea) or less often (constipation) than usual, like having more than three bowel movements in a day or less than three in a week. Also, the feces may vary in size and consistency; it may be hard, pencil thin, or loose and watery. The exact cause of IBS is not yet known, but factors like bacterial infections, food allergies, and lifestyle patterns play an important role in the development of the condition. Here’s a list of food and snacks that can help one with IBS: Lactose-free dairy products : The natural sugar found in milk is known as lactose. People having IBS show signs of intolerance to lactose, so they should avoid milk and dairy products. The consumption of milk products can be replaced with foods that are lactose free like oat milk, soy milk, or rice milk, and normal cheese can be replaced with hard cheeses, and brie and camembert cheese. One should check for dairy products labeled as lactose-free products before consuming them. Vegetables : For a healthy and balanced diet, one should eat green vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli cause abnormal bowel movements and should be avoided. Instead, vegetables like green beans, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, and squash should be included in the diet. One should also consume cooked vegetables rather than having them raw as it might disturb the bowel movements. Fruits : The fructose present in fruits can also trigger IBS, so one should avoid fruits that are high in fructose and consume fruits or snacks that help with IBS like bananas, blueberries, grapefruit, oranges, and strawberries, which have low fructose.