Food, clothing, and the environment expose individuals to billions of substances daily. These substances may not affect everyone, but some people’s immune systems may react aggressively. The reactions could be sneezing, coughing, experiencing shortness of breath, getting diarrhea, having rashes and hives, and swelling in the hands, lips, or throat. These reactions happen when the immune system recognizes a substance as a threat to the body and releases chemicals to fight it. Sometimes, two conditions may occur together or trigger the other, for instance, allergies and asthma. Allergies can sometimes trigger asthma in individuals, and this is often known as allergic asthma. Connection between asthma and allergies 1. Allergies that affect airways and lungs Some immune systems may mistake common substances like food, chemicals, climate, and smells and send a response as a sneeze, cough, rash, or sickness. It indicates that the person has to avoid exposure to those substances. If the allergies affect the lungs or the airway, they trigger symptoms similar to asthma. Some symptoms go away when the person moves away from the allergen, while some allergic conditions, like anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening. 2. Asthma A person is said to be asthmatic when their lungs and airways swell due to inflammation.

Mental health problems like depression affect one’s physical and mental well-being. Individuals with this condition cannot enjoy activities they once did, begin to withdraw socially, and more. One way to help manage depression is by following healthy eating patterns and avoiding unhealthy ones. Certain foods are known to worsen symptoms of depression, like fatigue, mood swings, low self-esteem, and sudden weight gain or loss. Experts recommend that these foods be replaced with healthier alternatives. Six foods to avoid to improve symptoms of depression Protein, micronutrients, fruits and vegetables, and whole-grain foods are beneficial for maintaining good physical and mental health. While food alone cannot improve or worsen depression, it should be combined with physical activity that one likes and wants to do and engage in activities that help in managing stress. Doctors advise that certain foods worsen depression symptoms and should be avoided. They include: 1. Carbonated beverages Despite what the commercials may say, carbonated beverages do nothing to improve mood. The high sugar content may boost one’s energy levels and cause it to fall quickly, leading to a sudden increase in dopamine levels and blood pressure. Once the sugar is depleted, it causes lethargy, fatigue, and mood swings. As an alternative option, one should consider changing to fresh fruit juices.

The eye is inherently wet due to the lacrimal gland, which supplies tear fluid as one blinks, and the meibomian gland, which prevents this fluid from evaporating. External factors like surgery, infection, and age or genetic conditions may lead to the defective functioning of either or both glands, leading to an uncomfortable condition known as dry eyes. Several natural products are used to alleviate dry eyes; these are mentioned below: 1. Omega-3-rich foods like fish Omega-3 fatty acid is the most important healthy fat for treating dry eyes and other ophthalmic conditions. It enriches the lipid composition in tears, reduces loss by evaporation, and keeps the eye moist. The eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) type and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) type of omega-3, naturally found in fish, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which decrease corneal damage. Foods like salmon, seabass, shrimp, and oysters provide the required amount of EPA and DHA. The alpha-linolenic acid type of omega-3 is found in nuts and seeds and has antioxidant properties. They can be acquired by taking chia seeds, walnuts, seaweed, and algae—spirulina, chlorella, and soy beans. After consulting a physician, supplements like algae and cod liver oil tablets can also be taken. 2. Vitamin A (retinol) The relationship between vitamin A and eyesight is well known.

Respiratory illnesses broadly encompass acquired and inherited diseases that affect the lungs and circulatory system, resulting in oxygen deprivation. Lack of oxygen triggers inflammatory reactions in the heart and brain. These conditions could be a disease like lung cancer or a symptom of another disease, like bronchitis, emphysema, and cystic fibrosis. The importance of a healthy respiratory system cannot be overstated, and people can implement some of the following tips to avoid these illnesses: Quit smoking The easiest way to avoid respiratory illness is by staying away from products like cigarettes, cigars, and vapes. A cigarette may contain up to 60 chemicals that release various gases. All the volatile gases and hydrocarbon chemicals weaken the lungs and depress the immune system, making them more prone to illness. Moreover, secondhand smoke should also be avoided as it does the same damage. Infants, children, and young adults become vulnerable to respiratory diseases due to secondhand smoke. Improve air quality It is important to make sure that carbon dioxide and dust particles are not trapped in an enclosed space as they can circulate in the air and cause harm to one’s lungs when inhaled. Hence, it is important to have proper windows, exhaust fans, and HEPA filters to keep the circulating air dust-free.

Many individuals desire to have a bright, white smile without any inhibitions. Apart from the obvious aesthetic benefit, having white teeth can improve self-esteem and oral hygiene and promote overall dental health. Professional teeth whitening is a safe and affordable option that involves the use of chemicals and has no side effects. However, if you prefer to avoid professional services, try teeth whitening at home with products available in your kitchen, pantry, or local supermarket. 1. Baking soda Baking soda is a well-known and effective remedy for teeth whitening. It is readily available in the kitchen in most households. To use this remedy, take a small amount of baking soda in your palm, dip your toothbrush into it, and squeeze some toothpaste over it. Brush your teeth slowly, covering all areas of the mouth. Rinse your mouth thoroughly to remove any remaining baking soda. For best results, do this before bedtime at night. 2. Charred bread Char a piece of bread in the oven or on a stove until it is burnt and black. Rub the charred bread on your teeth for three to four minutes and leave it for another five or longer. Wash it with normal water, and you will see that your teeth are white and shining.