Heartburn is typically experienced as a fiery pain centered in the area directly behind the breastbone. Both the location of the discomfort and its name typically lead people to assume that heartburn is a cardiovascular disorder. But it’s actually a digestive issue where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. It’s typically triggered when people eat food that they have trouble digesting. The following foods are among the most common causes of heartburn: 1. Spicy foods Who doesn’t love a little spice in their meal? Sadly, many people find that their tongue loves spicy food but their stomach strongly disagrees. Hot spices provide their distinctive kick by irritating tissue. We often find that it provides a nice flavor. But once spices reach the stomach they can cause massive irritation. This can trigger heartburn in people prone to the condition. 2. Alcohol Many people find a nice alcoholic beverage to be the perfect way to relax. However, those beverages can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter. In doing so it essentially opens up one of the main paths by which stomach acid can travel right back up the esophagus. And in the process, it will trigger heartburn. 3. Processed snack foods Snack foods like chips and cheezies probably seem like they’re in a whole other league when compared to hot spices or alcoholic beverages.

Osteoporosis refers to a situation in which people lose bone tissue faster than their bodies can replace it. While this condition is usually associated with the aging process, it can occur in almost anyone. The biggest danger comes from the increasing fragility of people’s bones. Even minor injuries can feature or even break bones. In some cases, even coughing can cause that level of damage. However, the following superfoods can help manage osteoporosis symptoms and even prevent onset: 1. Yogurt and milk Milk, in particular, is one of the best known sources for calcium. And calcium in turn is one of the best ways to help fight against osteoporosis. Remember that the condition is defined by progressive bone loss which outpaces the body’s ability to replace it. Calcium from milk or yogurt is a fantastic way to provide the body with all the materials needed to construct new bone tissue. 2. Calcium-fortified cottage cheese Cottage cheese, on its own, is a great source of calcium. However, it provides significantly less calcium than milk. Some cheesemakers have noticed this and fortify their cottage cheese with additional calcium. The exact level of calcium in the cottage cheese will vary by company. However, in general it usually ends up providing more calcium than standard milk.

Back in the day, the medical community struggled to understand and treat the symptoms of bipolar disorder. But in today’s world, medication, therapy sessions and small lifestyle changes can have a tremendous impact on symptoms. In this post we take a look at several superfoods that can help to regulate the symptoms of bipolar disorder: 1. Avocados Avocados can prove to be a critical super food when it comes to fighting various symptoms of bipolar disorder such as depression. It is rich in folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation and regulate neurotransmitters in the brain. Additionally, its monounsaturated fat content can help to lower blood cholesterol level and keep your blood pressure levels from going too high. 2. Beans Beans such as lima, soy, lentils and chickpeas fall under the legume family and are all excellent sources of magnesium. Even though more research is needed to determine just how effective it is at treating bipolar disorder it has been known to reduce anxiety and depression which are symptoms that go hand-in-hand with bipolar disorder. They are also rich in folate as well. Data suggest that a lack of folic acid has been linked to higher amounts of homocysteine.

Irritable bowel syndrome (or IBS) plagues more than three million people every year in the United States. Patients are commonly over fifty, and women are more likely to experience it than men. There is no cure for the disease, but it can be managed with some medications and proper self-care such as exercise, avoiding stress, getting enough sleep, and changing your diet. The symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, cramps, and gas. Although no specific cause is known, there are many commonalities in changes in the gut microflora and inflammation in the intestines. Certain foods are believed to trigger IBS. Avoiding these foods does help alleviate symptoms of IBS: 1. Processed snacks and sweets These may cause many health-related problems, and IBS is certainly one of them. The high levels of sugar and fat in most processed foods and sweets often trigger diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain. Processed foods and sweets usually have additives and starches that do not break down, making patients with IBS more likely to have increased symptoms. Most foods that are pre-packaged and ready to eat foods contain additives, starches, and sugars. 2. Coffee Coffee and caffeine often trigger symptoms in IBS patients. Coffee and other caffeinated drinks stimulate the intestines, and diarrhea and gas are often the results.

Depression is a common experience that many people experience at some point in their lives. However, clinical depression, or major depressive disorder, is much more severe. One of the main differentiating factors is that clinical depression exists independently of someone’s circumstances. For example, depression may be caused by a loss, trauma or a medical condition. Whereas, clinical depression is persistent sadness and apathy that interferes with daily life. In addition to a doctor diagnosis and treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend foods to help manage depression symptoms: 1. Fatty fish These types of fish are rich in fish oil. And the oil is itself a plentiful source of a nutrient known as omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient can help people in a wide variety of ways. However, it’s particularly useful for people who suffer from clinical depression. Remember that clinical depression is a neurological issue. The exact cause varies on a case by case basis. But it’s often due to lower levels of important components integral to brain function. And one of the most common examples is a low level of EPA and DHA. Interestingly enough, omega-3 fatty acids can boost levels of EPA and DHA in the brain. However, it’s usually best to keep fish consumption down to only a couple times a week.

Water is crucial to your wellness. Water, which makes up as much as 75 percent of your body, is essential for maintaining proper brain and body function and digestion. Exercise can cause fluid loss and dehydration, which are detrimental to your health. Hydrate yourself with water earlier, during, and then after your workout to help aid in the elimination of waste products from the body. Here are the most beneficial times of day to hydrate: 1. First thing in the morning Drink a glass of water first thing every morning to ease into the day. Evidence shows that starting the day with a glass of water can help people stick to wholesome hydration behaviors and consume more fluids overall. Strengthening your mood, cognitive performance, and activity levels may be doubling your daily water intake if you’re dehydrated. Mellow dehydration has been shown to negatively affect memory, ability to focus, anxiousness, and exhaustion. 2. Before every meal If you’re watching your weight, a smart move would be to have a glass of water before each meal. Doing so can increase satiety and lead to less food consumption at the meal in question. One study in 24 older adults discovered that relative to controls, those who drank 16.9 ounces (500 mL) of water 30 minutes before meal devoured 13% fewer calories overall.

The many people who suffer from ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), know how difficult it can be to manage the symptoms of impulsivity, difficulty focusing, and fidgeting. There are many prescription medications that can help, but they often don’t completely control ADHD symptoms. Did you know that your diet and eating certain foods can help ADHD patients stay more focused and on task? Here are five of the best foods to eat to manage ADHD: 1. Red peppers Many people with ADHD are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals. One of the most important ones for managing ADHD is iron. Red bell peppers are a great source of this essential nutrient. They also contain vitamin C, which can help to improve your mood and reduce stress levels. Try adding chopped red peppers to your lunchtime salad or eating them as a snack with some dip. 2. Brazil nuts Brazil nuts are another great source of essential nutrients for people with ADHD. They contain selenium, which is important for brain function. They also have magnesium, which can help relax your muscles and improve sleep. Both of these things can help manage ADHD symptoms. Try adding a few Brazil nuts to your morning oatmeal or snack on them throughout the day.

Certain foods can have negative interactions with medications and medical treatments, causing potential harm to our health. It is essential to be aware of these potential interactions and avoid certain foods when necessary. Here are six common foods that can adversely interact with certain health medications and medical treatments: 1. Tyramine-rich foods Tyramine is a compound found in aged, fermented, and pickled foods like cheese, and sauerkraut. Tyramine can interact with some antidepressants and migraine medications, leading to potentially life-threatening increases in blood pressure. 2. Dairy  Dairy products can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics and thyroid medications. Patients taking these medications should consult their healthcare providers to determine the best way to take their medications while avoiding negative interactions with dairy products. 3. Cured meats Cured meats like salami, bacon, and ham contain high levels of sodium, which can interact with certain blood pressure medications, leading to dangerous increases in blood pressure. Patients taking these medications should monitor their sodium intake and limit their consumption of cured meats. 4. Leafy green vegetables Foods high in vitamin K, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, can interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, increasing the risk of blood clots or stroke.

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects individuals who already have psoriasis. It is characterized by inflammation and swelling in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, there are various treatment options that can help manage its symptoms. One such option is incorporating superfoods into your diet. Here are seven healthy foods that can help reduce psoriatic arthritis symptoms: 1. Leafy greens Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce joint inflammation and pain. They are also a good source of vitamin C, which helps in collagen formation and connective tissue repair. 2. Berries Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them an excellent choice for individuals with psoriatic arthritis. These compounds can help reduce joint inflammation and pain. 3. Flaxseed Flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Adding flaxseed to your diet can help reduce joint inflammation and stiffness, making it a great option for individuals with psoriatic arthritis. 4. Fatty fish Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce joint inflammation and pain.

In the pursuit of a restful night’s sleep, exploring natural sleep aids through diet is an invaluable strategy. While OTC sleep aids like Advil, NyQuil, Tylenol PM, and Excedrin PM may offer temporary relief, incorporating sleep-friendly foods into your diet can be a sustainable approach to improve sleep quality. In this listicle, we unveil seven delicious and nutritious foods that can contribute to better sleep, reducing the reliance on over-the-counter medications. 1. Cherries for natural melatonin Cherries, particularly tart cherries, are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Consuming cherries or tart cherry juice may help increase melatonin levels in the body, promoting a more restful and quality sleep. 2. Bananas for magnesium and potassium Bananas are rich in both magnesium and potassium, essential minerals that play a role in muscle relaxation and nerve function. Magnesium, in particular, can help calm the nervous system, making bananas a convenient and nutritious bedtime snack to aid in winding down. 3. Fatty fish with omega-3 fatty acids Fatty fish like salmon and trout are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, known for their numerous health benefits, including sleep promotion. Omega-3s may increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to relaxation and better sleep.