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.

When suffering from hemophilia, it is vital to care for your overall health and pay attention to your nutrition. The point behind this is to stay healthy and ensure that your body is getting a sufficient amount of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins that it needs. Here are some dietary tips that’ll help you stay healthy and keep your hemophilia at bay. Add foods and veggies to your daily diet Foods and vegetables are a great addition to your diet. Not only do they promote a healthy mind and body, but they also help those who have hemophilia. Dark green leafy vegetables are a great source of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and other essential nutrients that you need. Fruits also make for a great source of fibers that will help maintain intestinal health. To ensure that you are eating enough veggies and fruits, ensure that you fill one half of your plate with them. Try veggies such as sweet potatoes, broccoli, and more. Make healthy cooking choices One of the essential elements of a healthy lifestyle is eating the right way when suffering from hemophilia. What does this mean? It means that you should stick to cooking modes such as baking, grilling, and even boiling instead of frying foods. This will ensure that your foods retain all their nutrients and stay clean and healthy. Steer clear of meat One of the other tips that’ll help with hemophilia is having meat-free diets. Instead, opt for beans, nuts, and other sources of protein. You could also try eating leaned meats such as fish, chicken, turkey, and even eggs twice a week for maximum protein intake. When eating out, keep your portions small Another important thing to keep in mind when eating should be the portion size. Eating smaller portions, especially when eating out, helps prevent you from eating stuff without knowing what’s in them.

Cancer becomes harder to manage with each passing day. It impacts patients both physically and psychologically, making every day a battle. While it’s impossible to say which type of cancer impacts the worst, gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is among the trickiest ones. This is because the disease is rare and isn’t treated like other types of cancer. Chemo and targeted drugs are two major treatment options, although both have painful side effects. Fortunately, you can manage GIST yourself and lower its consequences. Here are five tips that can help you. Eat smaller meals Digestion often becomes difficult after having surgery for GIST. However, you cannot skip eating either, as your body needs nutrition to heal. One way to address the problem is to lower the portion size of your meals. So instead of having three large meals in a day, break it down into 5-6 smaller meals. Avoid sugary foods and add more protein Sugary foods can increase acidity that might worsen symptoms. Proteins and carbohydrates, meanwhile, will have the opposite effect. Therefore, it makes sense to add more protein sources to your diet. That said, consult your doctor or dietitian before adding or subtracting foods from your diet. Don’t forget to exercise Cancer is definitely tiring and might make you feel fatigued. Staying in bed, though, is not the right thing to do as the condition will lead to emotional distress. Exercise will lift your spirits that can help your body recover faster. Begin with light exercise, and don’t increase the intensity without consulting your doctor. Get enough rest Compromising on sleep can adversely affect your symptoms. So ensure that you get at least eight hours of sleep at night. If possible, try and squeeze in a short nap in the afternoon as well. Seek help if you’re stressed Cancer is an extremely serious disorder that takes a toll on your physical and mental health.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are soft tissue sarcomas that develop in the stomach or small intestines. They first occur in specialized cells found in the walls of the digestive system, and the condition is often diagnosed in adults between the ages of 40 and 70. Individuals with this disease experience discomforting symptoms, such as abdominal swelling, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and tarry stools. This article attempts to shed light on the risk factors associated with the condition. These influence the tumor’s development; however, they do not always directly cause the disease. Risk factors Old age Those aged between 40 and 70 are at an increased risk of developing GISTs. However, they can occur in rare cases in those younger than 40. Gender: Research states that men are more likely to develop GISTs than women. There are only a few known risk factors for the condition. In most cases, GISTs don’t have a distinct cause, but certain genetic mutations can lead to the disease. Some of these genes and conditions that increase the chances of GIST are mentioned below: Familial gastrointestinal stromal tumor syndrome This rare syndrome occurs when a parent passes on an abnormal KIT gene to their child, and it can be a risk factor for GISTs that form at a young age. Neurofibromatosis type 1 A defect in the NF1 gene causes the disease, and it may be passed on from parent to child. That said, it’s not always inherited. Those with this condition are at an increased risk of developing non-cancerous tumors in nerves at an early age. They can lead to the formation of dark spots on the skin and freckling around the groin or underarms region. The disease also increases the risk of developing GISTs. Carney-Stratakis syndrome The inherited syndrome is caused by a mutation in the SDH (succinate dehydrogenase) genes.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) occurs when the body abnormally grows cells in the gastrointestinal linings. These abnormally growing cells have the potential to develop into cancer and must therefore be treated as early as possible. This type of growth can be observed anywhere along the digestive tract, but it is most commonly observed in the stomach and small intestine. Causes of GIST The abnormal growth of cells associated with GIST is typically observed in special cells in the body known as interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs). These cells are responsible for regulating the involuntary movements that occur in the gastrointestinal tract. According to certain studies, it is assumed that this abnormality in cells is induced as a result of abnormalities or certain mutations found in the DNA. Such mutations result in the improper behavior of the enzyme tyrosine kinase (KIT). Signs and symptoms of GIST In most cases, this condition goes undiagnosed for a long period of time, as the symptoms aren’t obvious. In certain cases, when the condition progresses, the following symptoms may be observed: Abdominal pain and discomfort Small bumps felt through the skin of the abdomen Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Loss of appetite and feeling full quickly Bowel obstruction Treatment options for GIST Once the condition is diagnosed, the doctors will recommend several treatment options based on its severity. Here are some common treatment options for GIST: Surgery Surgery is one of the most common and conventional approaches to tackling tumors and has been practiced for a long time in the cancer industry. However, if the cancerous cells are widespread and highly powerful, a single surgery would be ineffective in many cases and cannot be relied on as a stand-alone treatment option. Chemotherapy and radiation For larger and more aggressive tumors, doctors may suggest chemotherapy or radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells and prevent these cells from growing back.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the inner lining of the large intestine and rectum. While there is no cure for the condition, a healthy nutrition regime is key to managing and alleviating the symptoms and avoiding flare-ups. Since there is no one particular nutrition plan for people with ulcerative colitis, there are certain foods that one should add to their meals to help keep the symptoms at bay. Yogurt Yogurt contains probiotics, which are live bacteria that have health benefits. Probiotics are thought to help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, and they may also help reduce inflammation. While more research is needed, it is found that probiotic-rich foods like yogurt may help improve the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. One can include yogurt to their daily meals by adding it to their breakfast smoothie or even as a healthy evening snack. Low-fiber foods such as bananas One food group that’s recommended to help alleviate the signs of ulcerative colitis is low-fiber foods. Bananas are a great example of a low-fiber food that can be helpful for those with ulcerative colitis. They’re easy on the digestive system and can help provide some much-needed relief from the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Other low-fiber foods that may be helpful include white rice and cooked vegetables. If someone is looking for suggestions to help manage ulcerative colitis, these foods may be a good place to start. However, it is recommended to talk to the doctor before making any major changes to the daily nutrition. Salmon Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which have anti-inflammatory properties. This means they may help reduce the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis. Some other fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are sardines, mackerel, and herring. Lean meat Packed with protein, lean meat can be helpful for people with ulcerative colitis.

The nerves and muscle cells need potassium to function, and the mineral is also responsible for regulating nerves in the heart. However, when potassium levels in the blood exceed the normal range, i.e., 3.6–5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), it can lead to a condition called hyperkalemia. This can cause severe health complications, including irregular heartbeat and even heart attack. However, hyperkalemia can be managed through treatment and changes in meal plans. Foods to avoid A high-potassium meal regimen or using excessive potassium supplements can contribute to the development of hyperkalemia. Excessive amounts of this mineral can result in numbness, tingling sensations, and digestive problems. So, one should avoid potassium-rich fruits like honeydew melon, oranges, bananas, and cantaloupe. Additionally, people affected by the condition should also limit high-potassium foods like apricots, mangoes, avocados, kiwis, breakfast cereals (with dried fruit), salt substitutes, milk and dairy products, chickpeas, and lentils. One should ensure that their potassium intake is limited to a maximum of 2,000 milligrams (mg) per day. A doctor can help develop a manageable meal plan to keep the potassium levels in check.  Maintenance treatment options  Various treatment options are recommended for different stages of hyperkalemia. If the potassium levels are not severe but still need to be lowered, doctors may recommend sodium bicarbonate to temporarily shift potassium into body cells. Albuterol may be prescribed to raise blood insulin levels and move potassium into the cells. Another option is patiromer (Veltassa), which binds potassium in the intestine. A healthcare expert may also recommend Lasix (furosemide) to reduce extra fluids in the body brought on by conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, and liver disease. This is a water pill that helps the body flush out excessive fluids and remove potassium through urine. Lokelma is another recommended treatment for high potassium levels. It binds the excess potassium and lowers its concentration to keep the levels in check.

Heart disease and strokes are serious health concerns around the world, however, 80% of premature attacks are preventable. While risk factors like genetics and age cannot be controlled, it is possible to modify one’s lifestyle to reduce the likelihood of developing heart conditions. It is important to start developing these habits as early as possible to lead a longer and healthier life. Here are eight things one can do to prevent ailments of the heart: Eat healthier Adding foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, plant-based proteins, lean proteins, and fish to one’s meals can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Further, limiting the intake of refined carbohydrates, refined meats, and processed foods can help maintain optimal heart health. Exercise regularly Adults must aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of high-intensity vigorous activity per week to stay healthy and prevent diseases. Keep cholesterol in check High levels of cholesterol can clog the arteries and increase the risk of coronary artery disease and heart attack. Lifestyle changes and treatment plans as advised by the doctor can help lower cholesterol levels and stay healthy. Manage diabetes Having diabetes doubles the risk of having diabetic heart disease because high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves around the heart. It is important to get tested for diabetes and to keep it in check. Get enough sleep Not getting a healthy amount of sleep (7–9 hours for adults) also increases the risk for high blood pressure and diabetes, which can result in heart disease. One should consult their doctor in case they face issues with getting adequate sleep. Manage stress High blood pressure and stress have been linked to heart health. It is important to find ways to manage stress, which may include healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, listening to music, treatment options, and other relaxation techniques.

The red blood cells in the blood are made in the bone marrow. The cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to various regions of the body. However, sometimes people may develop a condition called polycythemia vera that causes the bone marrow to create excessive red blood cells. The elevated RBC count thickens the blood, slowing down its flow. While the disease is rare, it may lead to health complications. Causes The exact cause of polycythemia vera is yet to be determined. However, the disease develops when there is a mutation in a gene that may trigger problems in blood cell production. The body usually regulates the quantity of each of the three types of blood cells—red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. However, when one develops polycythemia vera, the bone marrow produces an abnormally large number of these cells. Symptoms Many people with polycythemia vera do not have noticeable symptoms, mainly because the condition progresses gradually. Some vague symptoms caused by the disease are dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, and headache. However, more specific symptoms include: Numbness, burning or tingling sensation, and weakness in the hands, feet, legs, or arms Itching after a warm bath or shower Unusual bleeding, including bleeding gums or a nosebleed Painful swelling in one of the joints, usually the big toe Feeling full after eating and bloating or pain in the left upper abdomen as a result of an enlarged spleen Difficulty breathing while lying down Shortness of breath Remedies If one is diagnosed with polycythemia vera, the doctor will recommend treatments such as frequent blood withdrawals or prescription options to reduce the number of red blood cells. However, one may also follow these remedies at home to help them manage the symptoms: Regular exercise: Moderate physical activity like walking may help improve blood flow in the body.

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. Along with these treatments, it is essential to pay close attention to one’s meal plans as well. Here are a few important nutritional recommendations for those with chfronic 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 requirement is fulfilled. Eat tummy-soothing foods Treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia generally reaks 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. To improve the count of neutrophils, it is important to stay away from uncooked food. These include raw vegetables and fruits, except fruits with thick peels such as bananas, oranges, and other citrus fruits.