Essential Foods to Eat and Avoid for Managing Myeloma

Essential Foods to Eat and Avoid for Managing Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that mainly affects the plasma cells in the body. Plasma cells are a crucial part of the immune system that help ward off infections by producing antibodies. These antibodies identify and attack infection-causing germs, bacteria, and viruses. Myeloma causes an uncontrolled mutation of the plasma cells. There is no cure for the condition, but it is possible to manage symptoms and improve the outlook.

Foods rich in fiber
One of the significant side effects of multiple myeloma symptoms is constipation. The inability to pass regular bowels is triggered during chemotherapy treatment for cancer. Hence, it becomes necessary to include more foods rich in soluble fibers. Soluble fibers are digested easily, help loosen bowel movements, and also lower the risk of severe pain and uneasiness caused by constipation. Apples, berries, prunes, figs, raisins, peas, carrots, celery, artichokes, beans, broccoli, oatmeal, and assorted whole grains are rich in soluble fibers. It is also advisable to increase water consumption as staying hydrated helps break down bowels and flush out toxins from the body. These changes boost immunity and help speed up recovery.

Foods rich in antioxidants
Cancer causes healthy cells to break down once the mutation spreads, resulting in oxidative stress. Antioxidants prevent these cells from deteriorating and include crucial nutrients like phytochemicals, flavonoids, and carotenoids in nutritious vegetables and fruits. Antioxidants also lower free radicals in the system that cause cell damage and counter any inflammation to manage symptoms of progressing multiple myeloma. Kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, and cauliflower are among the best cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens to include daily foods. Many of these veggies boast potent isothiocyanates that counter myeloma. In addition, assorted colored berries, including blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries, are all rich in natural polyphenols and flavonoids that also fight inflammation and lower the risk of oxidative stress.

Foods rich in iron
A low red blood cell (RBC) count triggered due to anemia is a common complication that one can develop alongside multiple myeloma. This is mainly a side effect of the cancerous plasma cell mutation that constricts the space for healthy RBCs to grow. As a result, cancer can lower hemoglobin count, triggering symptoms like fatigue, persistent weakness, and chills. Tropical fruits, including mangos, guava, pineapples, and papayas, can naturally boost iron intake. Bell peppers, sweet potatoes, kale, and broccoli are potent vegetables to boost iron in the bloodstream. Also, certain meats, seafood, and legumes like red meats, clams, liver, sardines, spinach, beans, chickpeas, lentils, and assorted nuts should form part of an anti-myeloma nutrition.

Foods rich in folates, vitamin D, and Vitamin B12
As multiple myeloma affects the production of red blood cells, it is necessary to include foods rich in a nutrient called folate. Folate is one of the essential B vitamins absorbed by the bone marrow to naturally boost the production of red and white cells. Spinach, asparagus, broccoli, beans, lentils, and black-eyed peas are rich sources of folates that the body can absorb quickly. A vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce red and white blood cells, thus compromising immunity. Rich dark meats, seafood, and poultry can help replenish the lost B12 vitamins. Popular sources include liver, beef, clams, fish, eggs, and dairy. Even fortified breakfast cereals, soy, flax, and almond milk can boost daily B12 intake to lower the risk of anemia in multiple myeloma. In addition to folates and vitamin B12, it is also important for the body to absorb vitamin D to promote better bone health. Salmon, tuna, sardines, egg yolks, and fortified juices/snacks can boost vitamin D intake among adults. Even stepping out in the sun for just a few minutes allows the body to naturally absorb much-needed vitamin D.

Kidney friendly changes
Multiple Myeloma cancer can develop and spread rapidly, affecting other organs in the body. Kidney disease risk is significantly high; if left unchecked, cancer could cause permanent organ failure. Multiple myeloma triggers a low red blood cell count, thus causing the breakdown of bones. This triggers a rapid release of calcium in the bloodstream forcing the kidneys to work hard to filter out the excess. The cancer plasma cells release excess proteins in the bloodstream that the kidneys struggle to filter out, increasing the risk of organ failure. Nutritionists advise cutting back sodium, potassium, and fatty proteins from daily foods to lower the risk of kidney failure while treating multiple myeloma.

Foods rich in preventive nutrients
One can additionally include many foods in their anti-myeloma nutrition plan to promote a healthy outlook. Plants, vegetables, and fruits are the most nutritious source of certain cytotoxic compounds called ursolic acid. This potent compound boast cancer inhibiting properties from helping slow down the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. Basil and rosemary, two common herbs used for daily cooking, are loaded with these compounds. Blueberries, apples, and cranberry also boast ursolic and pterostilbene to lower the risk of developing tumors. Also, curcumin, a common spice used in several cuisines, boasts many anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Foods to avoid
Since multiple myeloma attacks the immune system making it weaker, eliminating certain foods that could make you sick is important. Also, it can help lower the risk of multiple myeloma flare-ups. Foods rich in sodium, potassium, processed sugars, raw meats, raw fruits, and raw vegetables with the skin should be avoided for consumption. Even raw slices of seafood like sushi and sashimi are trigger foods that can result in complications as cancer progresses.

It is also essential to boost one’s immunity for the body to counter and slow down the progression of multiple myeloma. Practicing general hygiene, safe cooking, and portioning of meals are all lifestyle changes suggested during multiple myeloma treatment. 

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Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

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Procedure and Benefits of Invisible Aligners

While one can find beautiful smiles all around them, perfectly-aligned teeth form the basis of a perfect smile. Most people think of teeth alignment in terms of metal and wire braces. However, for a flawless smile, one does not need to feel discomfort associated with braces. For those who want to straighten their teeth without significantly changing their appearance, eating habits, or oral hygiene practices, invisible aligners are the perfect solution. What are invisible aligners? As the name implies, invisible aligners are transparent orthodontic devices, generally made of flexible plastic, that straighten one’s teeth. In the past, such aligners could not be used to address orthodontic issues, but with advancements in technology, dental experts suggest clear aligners serve many purposes. The tool not only enables a perfect smile, but it can also help users avoid certain oral and cosmetic issues stemming from misaligned teeth. One such issue faced by many people is known as malocclusion—a series of issues, including teeth gaps, crooked teeth, underbite, overbite, and crowded teeth. Malocclusion is the misalignment of one’s upper and lower teeth. Clear aligners help deal with this condition by gently repositioning the upper and lower teeth gradually over a series of iterations. So, invisible braces or aligners can improve not only teeth alignment but also the shape of cheeks, jaw, and other areas adversely affected by misaligned teeth. Invisible teeth aligners are available at the dentist’s office, and one can get them as useful at-home treatment options. Several studies have found that invisible aligners can provide the same results as traditional braces and, at times, can be even more effective than standard orthodontics. Teeth realignment process Here is the step-by-step process of getting clear aligners to realign one’s teeth: Consultation: First, one visits an orthodontist for a consultation or examination. The orthodontist can determine whether the patient needs invisible aligners after the examination. Before visiting the clinic, one must verify whether the orthodontist is certified and has experience in working with clear aligners. Not all dental health experts may be trained in offering such services. Developing individualized treatment plan: After consultation, the orthodontist begins working on a personalized therapy plan. Here, patients discuss expectations and requirements with the expert and seek details regarding the length of the realignment process, the expenses involved, and outcome-related queries. This process also involves a brief cleanup of the patient's teeth to keep them clean and shiny for the procedure. Taking an impression: Here, the orthodontist takes the teeth and gum impressions of the patient. First, the orthodontist carefully places a clay-like mold inside the patient’s mouth. The patient will have to clamp their upper and lower jaw, after which the mold is carefully removed. The impression is sent to an invisible aligner specialist. Alternatively, some orthodontists may use X-rays to get digitized impressions. Revision: Here, specialists use customized software to design and create an invisible aligner based on the requirements of the customer. They communicate and coordinate with the orthodontist to get the shape and size of the aligner right. Multiple revisions are made to the design to ensure that the aligner fits snugly in the patient’s mouth without any discomfort. Fitting the aligners: Here, the patient tries on the aligner designed for them. Some may feel a degree of pain or pressure on their teeth and gums before they get used to the foreign object in their mouth. Certain treatment options and practices can improve the experience over time to avoid feeling any discomfort.  Multiple invisible aligners are used over a period of several weeks or months until the customer’s teeth are perfectly realigned. So, after regular intervals (of, say, a week or two), the user gets a new set of aligners to straighten their teeth. The process continues until the teeth are straightened and aligned as intended. Orthodontists generally advise people to set aside their aligners while eating. Benefits Invisible aligners offer several benefits to users. Apart from being invisible to onlookers, clear aligners make the realignment process easier as they are: Removable: Unlike traditional braces, invisible aligners can be removed easily, for instance, while eating or brushing your teeth. Certain users might want to take it off for special occasions like weddings, public speaking events, and dates, among others. The retainers are made in a way that fitting them back after removal is quick and comfortable for users. Orthodontists generally recommend wearing clear aligners for at least 20 hours a day to get the desired results as quickly as possible. Easy to clean: Apart from being comfortable to put on and remove at regular intervals, invisible aligners are also remarkably easy to clean. Food particles can get stuck in the aligner trays, and just as one brushes their teeth, aligners should be cleaned regularly too. One can simply remove the aligner trays, gently clean them using a brush and toothpaste, and rinse in warm water before re-inserting the aligner. Affordable: Clear aligners are not only cheaper than conventional braces but can also be more effective. They eliminate the need to make multiple visits to the dentist and can promise faster teeth straightening process. Popular options Some of the most popular invisible aligners available in the market are: SmileDirectClub aligners: The aligners come with trademarked technologies such as Smart Sculpt and Comfort Sense that make them highly comfortable and incredibly effective. One can buy all-day or nightly aligners based on their preferences and convenience. Additionally, the brand offers free, in-person consultations for customers. Strayt aligners: The product is one of the most convenient invisible recliners. Strayt clear aligners are also among the most affordable options. Users get an at-home impression kit along with the first set of retainers. Strayt also offers free mobile scan consultations.  

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Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Braces are the go-to option most people choose for straightening teeth and jaws. This treatment provides aesthetic benefits, helps improve oral health, and relieves pressure from the joints. Traditionally, the base material used to be metal, but the latest developments in dental technology have given us a new option. This article gives you in-depth details about what makes invisible braces so popular, how much these products cost, and the best brands. What are invisible braces? Invisible braces, commonly known as clear aligners, are transparent dental trays that are used to correct your bite. These trays are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. As the teeth shift, you have to make a new invisible tray every one or two weeks. Invisible braces are quite similar to retainers, but the former is used the slowly align your teeth while the latter keeps your teeth in place. Benefits The biggest benefit of invisible braces that’s quite evident at first sight is the fact that they are transparent. Factors like the lack of wires, bands, and brackets make these braces suitable for people of all ages, especially adults. Unlike the metal and ceramic counterparts, these braces can be removed at any time, which makes them easy to clean as well.
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Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

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Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

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Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

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