10 simple snack ideas to manage arthritis

10 simple snack ideas to manage arthritis

Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints in the body, with symptoms like pain and stiffness in the joints. The pain may vary based on age, genetics, sex, and earlier injuries. When managing arthritis pains, healthcare experts may recommend treatment options and changes to one’s meals to boost recovery. Here are a few snack ideas that most people with joint pain caused by arthritis should consider eating.

Salmon and crackers
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation caused by arthritis. Individuals should mix cooked salmon with an olive-oil-based vinaigrette and eat it with whole-wheat crackers.

Apple slices
Fruits like apples are abundant in fibers, vitamin C, and polyphenols that are effective against arthritis pains. One can easily snack on apple slices throughout the day.

Low-fat string cheese dip
Dips made of low-fat string cheese are an ideal option one can consume along with other snacks in between meals. The cheese is rich in calcium, essential for developing and maintaining healthy bones.

Salads
Salads made with vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli may significantly help boost one’s ability to fight off arthritis pains. They can also be cooked and added as a side dish to an individual’s meals.

Olive oil
Olive oil added to any snack or meal is good for overall health. The oil has a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Moreover, a component in olive oil known as oleocanthal has anti-inflammatory properties, which are essential for heart health.

Green tea
Most people love drinking a cup of tea in the morning or the evening. Here’s where switching to green tea could be the best solution. The liquid could help alleviate the pain of arthritis due to its polyphenol compound content. The drink is also low in caffeine as compared to other teas.

Kale chips
Kale is a cruciferous vegetable rich in antioxidants, beneficial for people with arthritis. So when it comes to snacking options, one should consider eating kale chips. The individual should mildly oil a bowl of kale, then spice and bake it before eating the chips.

Steamed edamame
Edamame is high-protein soy food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fibers, and low in fat, which may help lower symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. One can use edamame in the pod or try it with another flavor, like wasabi, to make the snack.

Curry roasted chickpeas
Blended with turmeric and ginger, curry-roasted chickpeas are a healthy snack for people with arthritis. Chickpeas contain vitamin K, which helps the body absorb nutritional calcium and curb arthritis symptoms.

Nuts
One should consume nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts with their meals. They contain nutrients like magnesium, fiber, and healthy fats, which can ward off the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Apart from following a healthy meal plan, arthritis pain can be managed long term with timely care and physical therapy. In addition, doctors suggest the use of natural Relief Factor supplements. Primary ingredients include icariin, resveratrol, curcumin, and omegas that help overcome aches and pain triggered by inflammation.

Golimumab (SIMPONI ARIA®) is administered as an intravenous infusion for controlling severe rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. SIMPONI ARIA® vials may have side effects and should be taken under a doctor’s close supervision.

Voltaren’s arthritis pain gel is another effective treatment option for the condition. This gel has anti-inflammatory qualities that help drastically reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms, such as joint pain and stiffness in individuals.

It is also important to recognize the type of arthritis; for example, childhood arthritis or juvenile arthritis refers to arthritis in children and is characterized by chronic joint damage. Understanding the nature of the condition can help one seek suitable treatment options to relieve symptoms.

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Coping with urges that can trigger a relapse post treatment

Addictions when left untreated can turn into crippling conditions. One can be addicted to smoking, binge drinking, or even shopping. Once addicted, one willfully submits to urges, despite having satisfied them before. However, addictions can be managed and to a great extent treated to full recovery. But, the post-recovery phase is crucial where both the mind and body are put to test and can trigger a relapse. Continue reading to know more about the most common triggers for addictions and how to deal with them.Stress Stress is commonly the root cause of many problems and addictions, both physical and psychological. One can become an addict as a way to manage the stress that may stem from strained relationships or priorities. The best way to avoid a relapse during recovery is to make lifestyle changes that don’t trigger a return to addictions amidst a stressful situation. One can practice mindfulness, engage in relaxation techniques, manage one’s time to avoid stressful situations, and imbibe healthy eating habits and exercise in their daily routine. EmotionsThere is an umpteen number of triggers that invoke a positive or negative emotional response. However, the stress associated with dealing with emotions daily can trigger urges without one even realizing. Often, one turns to a glass of alcohol or relies on prescription medications to put the mind at ease. It is not a permanent solution and prolonged use of these substances can cause more harm in the long run. One must learn and explore productive ways of controlling emotions better to avoid a relapse during recovery. For example, writing and maintaining a journal that contains one’s feelings and thoughts can act as a healthy outlet. Similarly, there are other healthy ways to channel one’s energy and manage emotional responses.Positive conditioningPeople who have addictions such as smoking or drinking may often find themselves in situations where a lit cigarette or a glass of wine can trigger a relapse. This is understandable considering these substances were the primary source of comfort and relaxation. However, with positive reinforcement and reconditioning one can train the mind and curb such urges. Relaxation doesn’t always mean techniques like yoga or meditation, it can also be pursuing your hobby. Counseling for group gatheringsBirthdays, parties, New Year’s events, and any celebration in general call for alcohol consumption and smoking. At times, these could be the very addictions one is recovering from, and in a social gathering, such temptations can be strong. However, a recovering addict should refrain from indulging in any of these as even a taste can turn into a relapse. For instance, a recovering alcoholic must avoid having a single drink as that could put him/her on a slippery slope to relapse. Here, one-on-one counseling can help prepare the mind to resist the urge. It is never healthy for a recovering addict to simply avoid socializing fearing a relapse.

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3 tips for maintaining lung health

Respiratory health is one of the most important aspects of living a healthy and fulfilling life. Air quality has been deteriorating over time with the increasing threat of climate change and natural and man-made disasters. So, here are some tips for maintaining lung health and ensuring healthy breathing practices. If one experiences changes in breathing patterns or any such issues, consulting a doctor is crucial for ruling out respiratory illnesses. Limit exposure to pollutants With the Air Quality Index being compromised every day, it is important to make sure that one does everything necessary to maintain respiratory health. This includes avoiding not just air pollutants like dust particles but also smoke from industries and chemicals from cleaning products at home or workplaces. One of the ways to avoid exposure is to be around those who follow a healthy, smoke-free lifestyle at home and work. If one resides in a city that frequently has poor AQI, then it is important to limit going outside too much and instead spend time at home or indoors. Further, one should check the AQI before stepping out every day and limit exposure to only necessary outdoor activities. Prevent infections Getting a cough or a cold occasionally may be inevitable, however, frequent infections indicate a weakened immune system. Here, additional measures need to be taken to strengthen respiratory health. It is also important to quickly treat a cold/cough, as if left untreated, it can lead to other health complications. Some tips for preventing respiratory infections include: One should consider getting flu shots and pneumonia vaccinations. It is possible that one may not be eligible for all vaccinations, so they should speak to a healthcare professional before getting vaccinated. One should avoid large gatherings or crowded places during the cold or flu season. During this period, an infection can easily spread from person to person. Washing hands frequently with soap and water is an effective preventive measure, along with using sanitizers to keep them clean. However, overusing sanitizers can lead to dry, flaky skin. Good oral hygiene is also crucial for preventing germs from entering the mouth. This includes brushing twice a day and getting a 6-monthly dental check-up. If one does contract an infection, they should isolate themselves and avoid physical contact. Regular exercise Exercise is known to have several health benefits, which include strengthening the lungs. Studies suggest that both aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises can benefit the lungs, so one can pick a physical activity that they enjoy and can practice regularly. Aerobic activities like walking, running, and rope jumping can be extremely beneficial for cardiovascular health as well. Yoga and pilates are great for toning the breathing muscles, along with improving posture and core strength. Another tip for healthy breathing is practicing breathing exercises to strengthen the diaphragm.

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