4 common myths about diabetes debunked

When the glucose levels in the body are high and insulin levels are not proportionate enough to convert this glucose into energy, the risk of diabetes increases. It is basically the inability of the body to convert food into energy using insulin. The glucose is broken down into energy for cells to absorb and when this conversion doesn’t take place, blood sugar levels rise. If left unchecked, it can lead to a number of complications. However, there are certain myths about diabetes that can create confusion among the masses. Here is what you must know and understand about the condition. Myth 1: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the same. The fact of the matter is that both type 1 and 2 are linked to insulin deficiency that causes diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce any insulin, and people suffering from this condition must rely on regular doses of insulin to supplement these requirements. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disorder that is mostly diagnosed in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body still manages to produce insulin but the cells are unable to absorb the compound necessary for converting food into energy. Depending on the severity of the condition, people suffering from type 2 diabetes may or may not need insulin shots. Myth 2: Insulin dependence Nothing can be further from the truth that insulin is a lifesaving medication and absolutely necessary for people suffering from severe diabetes. The body cannot convert food into energy without insulin. How the supply is replenished does not matter as there is a need for the deficiency to be managed better. People with type 2 diabetes can still manage a healthy lifestyle and reduce their dependence on insulin to a great extent. However, it is a mandatory medication for those who have type 1 diabetes.
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4 common myths about diabetes debunked

The risk factors associated with dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of fluids from one’s body. It can be caused due to something as simple as not having an adequate water intake or perhaps a severe medical side effect. The symptoms of fluid loss caused due to this condition can affect people of all ages. From toddlers and infants to older adults, one can experience mild to severe dehydration depending on the primary cause of the same. Herein, we shall try and understand the severity and risk factors associated with dehydration in people of different ages. Children and infants At a very young age, infants and children are more susceptible to bacterial infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Both result in the rapid loss of fluids. Note that infants lose more fluids in comparison to adults. Young children, especially toddlers, unlike adults, may also not realize when they are thirsty. This increases the risk of staying dehydrated unknowingly until severe symptoms indicate the same. It is one of the main reasons why doctors prescribe electrolyte-rich fluids for children experiencing a high fever to help replenish the lost fluids. Seniors and older adults Adults after a certain age face more difficulties as the body gradually loses its ability to conserve water. One’s sense of thirst also becomes acute with old age, which further increases the risk. Individuals might not feel thirsty enough to have the recommended intake of water every day, further causing problems due to the loss of fluids. Furthermore, dehydration can be a direct result of certain prescription medications used for treating diabetes. The side effects can result in a fluid imbalance as medications increase the urine output, thus resulting in a higher loss of fluids from the body. Many medications also list vomiting and diarrhea as potential side effects and both can trigger a severe loss of fluids in the body.
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The risk factors associated with dehydration

Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

Our sensory organs are extremely essential in our daily life. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to stand straight, see things, taste, communicate, and live the way we do. But the power of sight is one of the most important of them all. Maintaining good eye health is necessary, and, unsurprisingly, making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices is crucial for this. So, here are a few nutrients you should add to your daily diet to keep your vision in top-notch condition: Vitamin A The deficiency of vitamin A is one of the most common causes of blindness across the globe. Why is this vitamin so important? Well, for starters, it helps manage and maintain the light-sensing cells in your eyes. A lack of vitamin A can cause dry eyes and other serious eye conditions. Best food with vitamin A content: To get the right amount of vitamin A in your diet and maintain optimal eye health, include foods like apricots, carrots, spinach, and yam in your diet in plenty. Vitamin C Vitamin C is present in high concentration in the aqueous humor (the liquid in the outermost part of the eye). The amount of this vitamin in the aqueous humor is proportional to the amount in your diet, and research has proved that people with cataracts tend to have low amounts of vitamin C in their bodies. Best dietary sources of vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi, lime, and strawberries are all great sources of vitamin C. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts are also healthy sources of this vitamin. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are essential to maintain good eye health. DHA aids eye function. It is present in the retina and is an integral part of brain and eye development in children. Evidence also proves the benefits of omega-3 supplements for people with dry eyes.
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Must-have nutrients and foods for optimal eye health

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Unusual sexual conditions you did not know existed

Unusual sexual conditions you did not know existed

Many sexual diseases and disorders are commonly known, some easily treatable, others fairly straightforward to manage with simple lifestyle changes, and proper medication. Men and women are equally susceptible to the problems associated with these disorders. However, there are a number of sexual conditions that often go unreported as people may get embarrassed talking about it. While the severity of the condition varies greatly, it is up to the affected people to consult with a medical professional to determine the proper course of treatment. For this, one needs to understand the possible complications that can arise from the following sexual conditions. Sleep sex Medically known as sexsomnia, sleep sex is a documented condition but not very common. Either one of the partners may have the condition that prompts them to engage in physical activity while being asleep. However, men are more prone to the effects of sleep sex, wherein they might not remember engaging in the activity the next morning unless the partner confides. The triggers of the condition are not fully known. One can make certain changes in their sleeping hygiene, refrain from alcohol, or take medications to avoid frequent episodes of the condition. If the condition still persists, you should consider consulting your doctor. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) HSDD indicates the lack of desire to engage in physical intimacy. It is one of the many behavior-related sexual conditions that affect both men and women, wherein they lose interest for longer periods of time. In fact, research suggests that women are more affected by HSDD in comparison to men that affects their drive and desire to copulate. One may also suffer from associated conditions like Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD), a more severe aversion to any type of physical contact with their partner. Postorgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) POIS is predominantly known to affect men, but women can also experience symptoms of flu or allergies after experiencing an orgasm.
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Prevent these infant skin issues to keep your baby’s skin flawless

Prevent these infant skin issues to keep your baby’s skin flawless

As a new parent, it can be terrifying to discover that your little one’s skin has rashes, spots, and bumps within weeks. But no need to worry much, as most of these skin problems are harmless. They can either be treated or disappear on their own if you don’t mess with them. If you’re new parents, you must know about a few skin issues your baby might face and what to do when they pop up. So, let’s look at some of the most common skin problems in babies: Baby acne It’s a common condition that affects about 20 percent of newborns. It can be present at the time of the baby’s birth or pop up within the next 2-4 weeks and last for a few days, weeks, or months. Although the exact cause of baby acne is unknown, researchers believe that it’s stimulated by the mother’s or infant’s hormones. Treating baby acne is the easiest—you have to let it be and do nothing. Don’t touch or squeeze them or try to treat them with medicated soap. Just wash your baby’s face with water two or three times every day and gently pat it dry. Diaper rash If your baby’s soft butt is all sore and red, they’re most probably experiencing diaper rash. It’s a skin irritation resulting from moisture, very little air, and the baby’s pee and poo being trapped in a diaper for a long time. This can be easily treated by keeping the diaper area clean and dry by changing the diaper frequently. You can also try using medicated soaps to wipe their bottoms, but wipes containing alcohol are strict no-nos. If the rash persists, it’s advisable to see your pediatrician before applying any creams or other medication. Cradle cap Are you noticing some yellow or white, dandruff-like flakes on your little one’s head?
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