Rheumatoid arthritis or RA occurs when the immune system starts mistakenly attacking healthy cells. This is an autoimmune disease and leads to inflammation that is harmful to bone and joint health. People suffering from RA tend to have painful swellings in their joints. A major relief source for these individuals can be incorporating food items that are more suited to help them battle the inflammation. 1. Pumpkin Pumpkins contain plant compounds like carotenoids. This fruit, along with other winter squashes like acorn, butternut, and Hubbard, is a rich source of antioxidants. They are packed with vitamin A and C and are naturally high in minerals like potassium and iron. Pumpkins are highly nutritious and useful in countering the effects of inflammation in the body. 2. Apples Apples are full of fiber, making them a good option for bone and joint health. It increases the feeling of fullness and helps in maintaining weight. Typically associated with fall, the crunch in apple curbs cravings. With a plethora of varieties of apples available, they are versatile and can be added to sweet or savory dishes. 3. Strawberries Strawberries are available from late spring to early summer. High in vitamin C and folates, they help in reducing inflammation.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition wherein the stomach acid is forced to flow back into the esophageal tract (a tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). The acid causes irritation and pain in this tract when it flows into the empty space.  GERD is a chronic condition, and at best, symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life. This can be done with a combination of OTC medications, self-care remedies, and changes in daily food habits for long-term relief. Foods to eat 1. Fiber-rich foods Fiber is one of the most important nutrients  to include in one’s daily food regime. These foods help aid digestion and are more filling compared to processed alternatives. Green and root vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, beans, carrot, beets, cauliflower, potatoes, and cucumber are excellent fibrous choices to include daily. Vegetables are also low in sugar and fats in comparison to ready-to-eat and processed alternatives. Oatmeal, brown rice, and couscous are whole foods also rich in fibers to help reduce the effects of acid reflux. Ginger is a natural herb rich in anti-inflammatory properties to help manage the discomforts of heartburn and other gastrointestinal disorders in general. 2. Foods high in water content Celery, lettuce, watermelon, and even beverages like herbal tea and soups with a rich broth can help alleviate symptoms linked to GERD.

Hepatitis C is a condition that leads to inflammation in the liver. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications like liver failure, liver cancer, and cirrhosis. About 1 in 50 people in the country have this disease. Despite being so common, there are lots of myths and misconceptions associated with hepatitis C. Read on to know the myths and truths about hepatitis C. 1. Myth – Hepatitis C spreads through casual contact Hepatitis C cannot be contracted by touching, kissing, or hugging someone. The disease also does not spread through sneezing or coughing. It is completely okay to live in the same house, share your food, or use the same utensils with hepatitis C patients. The risk of getting this disease through unprotected sex is low but not inevitable. The virus primarily spreads through blood. So, avoid sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers with hepatitis C patients. 2. Myth – Hepatitis C is not curable Early treatment and medications like direct-acting antivirals can eliminate the virus from the bloodstream. Currently, there are seven different types of these antiviral medications. On suspecting hepatitis C, one should consult the doctor. The doctor will run some tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Breast cancer is a condition in which abnormal cells in the breasts start multiplying rapidly. It is the second most common cancer in our country and is more prevalent in women than men. Although there is no way to eliminate the risk of breast cancer entirely, some lifestyle changes can help lower a person’s chances. From exercise to eating healthy, this article lists five lifestyle tips to avoid breast cancer. 1. Stay active The most significant factors that increase a person’s risk of breast cancer are unhealthy food habits and excess body weight. So, including moderate-to-intense exercise in the day-to-day routine can be of great help. Regular exercise helps control body fat percentage and keeps one’s weight under control. Moreover, it also helps reduce stress by releasing endorphins that keep a person’s mood elevated. 2. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables Several research studies suggest that having healthy meals that include colorful fruits and vegetables can lower the risk of breast cancer. Eating nutritious meals helps prevent unwanted diseases and disorders. It also helps the body derive essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals for an overall healthy lifestyle. However, while having the right foods, one should simultaneously avoid red meats and other processed items and replace these with organic whole foods instead.

People who experience migraines know how hard it is to deal with them. These headaches tend to be highly debilitating and can interfere with one’s daily activities. Moreover, migraines can cause additional symptoms, such as nausea and light or sound sensitivity. Although there is no specific cure for the problem, particular vitamins and minerals can help reduce the symptoms’ intensity. One can intake these nutrients through supplements and specific foods. 1. Vitamin B2 Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is a nutrient naturally found in milk, green vegetables, meat, eggs, nuts, etc. Riboflavin plays a crucial role in the way our body cells metabolize energy. A deficiency of this vitamin can cause a lower threshold of pain tolerance in certain people, resulting in frequent migraine headaches. Eating foods containing vitamin B2 or multivitamin supplements that have this nutrient can help reduce the frequency of the attacks and even the intensity of the pain. 2. Magnesium It has been observed that people with lower magnesium levels in their bodies are more likely to experience painful migraines. Magnesium is found in our blood and is responsible for controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It is recommended to have about 400 milligrams of magnesium in a day to observe any noticeable changes.