Our body needs a multitude of vitamins and minerals to function properly. But if the body experiences either a deficiency or excessive availability of these compounds, it can lead to side effects. Potassium is an essential mineral that, when available more than required, can cause hyperkalemia. The normal potassium level in the blood is 3.5 to 5 mmol/L. Anything above that can be fatal, and avoiding foods rich in this particular mineral is necessary. Banana Banana is one of the first foods that come to mind when considering potassium. The general potassium content in a banana is estimated at 422 mg. Due to this high potassium content, this fruit is considered an athlete’s best friend. However, for those with hyperkalemia, it can be potentially dangerous. In such cases, it is better to snack on fruits like berries and apples. Beans and legumes Beans and legumes are common protein sources for vegetarians and vegans. However, they are also a reliable source of high potassium content in daily food. Pinto and lima beans have approximately 300 mg of potassium per half cup. When regular intake is considered, it amounts to a higher number. Dried fruits The nutrient density in dried fruits as compared to fresh fruits is higher.

Most individuals are likely to experience myalgia (pain in the muscles) at some point during their lifetime. Studies show that 11% to 40% of adults in the country live with chronic pain. You might experience the sore, aching feeling in a small area or the whole body. The severity of the ache experienced may also vary. Several factors can lead to the development of this condition; here are five common causes. 5 health conditions that can trigger myalgia Lupus Lupus is a disease caused by the body’s immune system attacking its tissues and organs. The most noticeable symptom of the condition is a facial rash that looks like the wings of a butterfly opening across both cheeks. Lupus may lead to inflammation, which can affect various organ functions. However, each individual may experience different symptoms of the autoimmune disease. A common complication triggered by lupus is myalgia. The condition can also lead to inflammation in the muscles, most commonly in the thighs, upper arms, hips, and shoulders. Those with lupus may experience weakened muscles, making it difficult to raise their arms or stand up from a chair. Strains Several muscle pains are triggered by accidents that may bruise muscles in the body.

Skin conditions can be an underlying symptom of many health conditions and lifestyle choices, so it is important to educate yourself about the dos and don’ts of skin health. Here are some tips that will help you from developing unfavorable skin conditions. However, always make sure you are aware of the changing factors like food, other health complications, environment, and genetics that may lead to skin diseases in some people. Foods to avoid Milk Animal milk and dairy products from the same can cause acne in some people. Studies suggest that dairy contains amino acid leucine and this can cause excess sebum production in some people, leading to acne. It is also observed that hormones present in milk may cause an imbalance in the body. High glycemic index Foods that have a high glycemic index raise the blood sugar levels in the body, which leads to excess insulin production. When the body produces more insulin, it stimulates androgen hormone production and sebum causing acne breakout in individuals. This also triggers those with sensitive skin. Some of these foods include chips, cookies, hard drinks, sweet beverages, refined grains, sugary cereals, white bread, and foods with added sugar. Fried foods This is no study that concludes fried and junk food is the best meal anyone can have.

Colon cancer is the second largest cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. According to reports, the chances of developing this health condition are higher in millennials than in older adults. Due to these findings, many experts have reduced the recommended age of regular colon screenings from 50 to 45 years. One must visit a doctor as soon as possible after experiencing the following early warning symptoms of the disease. Rectal bleeding Blood in the stools is one of the most common early signs of colon cancer. Doctors may send a stool sample to the laboratory for a fecal occult blood test when this symptom occurs. Pain in the abdomen Any abdominal or stomach pain (including discomforts like bloating or cramps) can be an early symptom of this health condition. The pain is due to the formation of cancer cells in the abdominal region. Changes in bowel habits Irregularities or changes in bowel habits, such as constipation and diarrhea, are early indicators. Some patients may report changes in stool consistency or narrowing of the stool. Fatigue This is a common sign in many health conditions and should not be ignored. Improper absorption of minerals in the body can lead to complications like anemia, which can cause fatigue, tiredness, or weakness.

Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all residents in the country. Moreover, a multifold increase in medical costs has made it difficult to afford decent healthcare without insurance. But with so many plans and policies available for Medicare, Medicaid, and Medigap, choosing the right one can be challenging. It is also important to note and avoid these common mistakes while planning for healthcare coverage for self and one’s family. Here are some to avoid: Not researching properly You have to do primary research to understand the options for health insurance. For example, United Healthcare (UHC) offers exclusive Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) benefits to qualifying applicants covering Medicare and Medicaid. Seniors above 65, those with special needs due to disabilities, and citizens eligible in the low-income criteria can apply for particular insurance policies by UHC. These criteria also impact part A and part B premiums payable for 2022. Without research, you might miss several of these benefits provided by private insurance companies. Taking insufficient coverage Policy coverage is one of the critical factors to consider when choosing health insurance plans. The first point to consider here is the average waiting period for the policies to activate and cover expenses.

Water is one of the most essential components for the survival of all living organisms. However, rapid urbanization and industrialization over the last few decades have led to an increase in the contamination of water sources in the country. Even with multiple facilities designed for filtration and purification, drinking water can have hazardous elements that increase the risk of known chronic diseases and severe illnesses. Here is a look at the consequences of water contamination: Health concerns As the human body is made up of nearly 70% water, most organs and functions are affected by consuming contaminated water. Here are the common consequences: Heavy metal contamination issues Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury increase the risk of developing cancer in the liver, bladder, or lungs. Long-term consumption can affect neurological development among kids affecting their cognitive skills. Women drinking contaminated water during pregnancy are at substantial risk of developing fetal malformations. Heavy metals like arsenic can also be introduced into breast milk, affecting the health of breastfed newborns. Respiratory issues and autoimmune disorders Byproducts of chlorine and other chemicals used for disinfection can mix with groundwater. These chemicals adversely affect the upper respiratory tract, causing chest pain and lung irritation.

Eosinophilic esophagitis, widely known as EoE, is an allergic condition of the esophagus – the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. When a person suffers from it, their esophagus becomes inflamed and unable to contract. This condition can lead to the development of abscesses or rings, and the body employs eosinophils, better known as white blood cells, to counter it. It can happen at any age, and the symptoms vary between persons. Symptoms Eosinophilic esophagitis is a disease that is often confused with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) due to matching symptoms. The symptoms of the condition differ with age and can also vary from one patient to another, but may include trouble while swallowing, food getting stuck in the throat, upper abdominal and chest pain, heartburn, and vomiting. Causes and risk factors This condition develops when eosinophils build up in the esophagus, causing discomfort and inflammation. Multiple factors like food allergies, history of the disease in the family, and climatic conditions may put a person at risk of developing this health condition. Food allergies Food allergies are one of the biggest risk factors as it triggers the eosinophils to travel to the esophagus. It can sometimes even lead to medical emergencies and may require the assistance of a healthcare professional.

Some people often experience chronic stabbing pain in their heels, especially when they get out of bed. The phenomenon is caused because of a health condition called plantar fasciitis. It affects the lower region of an individual’s foot. The pain caused by the condition leads to immense discomfort and unbearable pain that may affect one’s ability to indulge in daily activities like walking. But with the right footwear, one can improve, cope and manage the condition. Mistakes with picking footwear for plantar fasciitis One must find footwear ideal for the gait and foot anatomy, as it helps prevent stress injuries. Many people go to a store and purchase a pair of shoes based on a sales associate’s input or how attractive the kicks look. However, this selection process is flawed as it does not account for the essential comfort factors needed for people with plantar fasciitis. Moreover, shoes that are uncomfortable due to under or oversized, cushioned, or structured footwear may lead to an altered gait pattern, causing more discomfort. Choosing the right shoes Healthcare experts like physical therapists and podiatrists do not prescribe a specific type of shoe for plantar fasciitis. Each person is evaluated differently to understand which shoe is suitable for their situation.