Smartphones are versatile devices that allow you to communicate with people even if they are across the globe. They can also be used to watch a movie on the go, read an e-book, take high-quality photos and videos, and even play games of your liking. But as important as they are, there are some things you should avoid doing when using a smartphone. Here are five smartphone habits to stop today: Using the phone while walking You may use your phone to perform multiple tasks. However, it is imperative to do so when you are not on the move. Using the device while walking can distract and endanger you or another individual. Relying only on GPS The GPS on a smartphone is exceptional but not always 100% accurate. There are days when your phone may guide you the wrong way or take you to the wrong destination. So sometimes, you should self-navigate by looking at the traffic signs or by seeking directions from a traffic officer. Scrolling through the smartphone before bed Most of us tend to scroll through social media or watch content like movies or a web series before sleeping. However, smartphones emit a blue light that suppresses melatonin, a chemical that regulates sleep.

Lupus is a health condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. It causes inflammation in different body parts, including the joints, kidneys, blood cells, heart, and lungs. Unfortunately, the autoimmune disease has no cure; available treatment options only help prevent flare-ups and manage symptoms. Therefore, patients must be careful and follow healthy practices to prevent the problem from worsening. Here are five things to avoid when diagnosed with lupus: Exposure to sunlight Those affected by lupus should avoid sun exposure because they are more sensitive to sunlight. It can worsen the symptoms, especially when the sun is at its peak. When venturing out, patients must apply sunscreen, preferably with SPF 70. Sunscreens with higher SPF values might protect the skin from harmful rays. In addition, individuals should cover their skin as much as possible when outside and carry a hat. Physical and mental stress Mental or physical stress can cause lupus to worsen or trigger a flare-up. A severe lupus episode is most commonly linked to chronic stress. Patients can indulge in mild exercises, yoga, or meditation to calm the mind. These activities release happy hormones and put one in a good mood almost instantly. Red meat Red meats like beef, pork, and lamb contain saturated fats that can raise a person’s cholesterol levels.

Getting a good night’s sleep is important to ensure you remain energetic throughout the day. Your mind and body need a healthy reset to overcome the tasks of the day and start fresh. Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily is an ideal sleep cycle for adults and there are ways to achieve this if you quit some habits and choices. Let’s see what things you must avoid to ensure a healthy sleep cycle. Using your phone before bed Aimless scrolling and watching videos before going to bed while staring at your phone or laptop will only hinder your REM sleep cycle. According to studies, it is suggested that electronic devices are one of the most important things to avoid for better sleep because they emit harmful rays and may also distract you from a good night’s sleep. Heavy dinner While indulging in a heavy dinner might sound like a good idea, it only puts your digestive system under a lot of stress and pressure. Because of your day-to-day schedule and our rapid eye movement (REM) sleep cycle, your organs work according to this routine. Similarly at night, your digestive system needs a reset to be able to function properly for all the meals you put in it the next day.

Aging is a natural, inevitable process. At best, it is possible to make continuous changes that complement and suit your current lifestyle. We are talking about changes in daily nutrition, habits, routine, and even finding dedicated health services and personal care assistance to improve quality of life. These changes are also beneficial in preventing and lowering the risk of certain progressive disorders that affect daily lifestyles. Here is an overview. 5 essential foods to consider Studies show that 60% of the brain matter is made up of fat and nearly half of it consists of omega-3 fatty acids that boost and regulate cognitive function. Omega 3s can be sourced from fatty fish, including salmon, tuna, trout, herring, and sardines. Avocados and assorted nuts are rich sources of this nutrient suitable for vegetarians and vegans. In addition, it is necessary to include antioxidant-rich berries like blueberries that delay brain matter aging and improve memory. Green leafy vegetables like broccoli contain lutein, vitamin K, nitrates, and folates known to boost cognitive function. Nutritionists also recommend including a variety of whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and buckwheat, among other complex carbohydrates. These healthy changes in nutrition boost cognitive development and slow down brain degeneration.

Ulcerative colitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the colon. It can cause high levels of inflammation and ulcers that occur on the lining of the colon and rectum. If the condition persists, the ulcers can start spreading and invade the whole colon as opposed to just the lining. Ulcerative colitis is especially seen in males aged 50 years or above but can occur in people of all ages and genders. Foods that help manage ulcerative colitis: Oatmeal Oatmeal is a highly nutritious food loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It also contains high amounts of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that promotes good gut bacteria growth. Studies show an excellent bacterial population in the digestive system helps manage ulcerative colitis symptoms. The high fiber content of oatmeal also helps promote regular bowel movements, reducing cramps and pain. Salmon Salmon is rich in protein and other essential nutrients such as potassium. It makes it an excellent addition to protect the body against strokes and other symptoms. The omega-3 fatty acid contained in fish is especially beneficial for patients with ulcerative colitis. Fruits Some common foods that are a great addition to a colitis patient’s plate are bananas, avocado, grapes, and blueberries.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a health condition generally seen in children. The brain of an ADHD child develops differently, where the condition affects the child’s posture, focus, and attention span, and capacity for self-control. This condition is characterized by hyperactivity, excessive movement when not required, and impulsive behavior. Parents with ADHD child can opt for different ways to deal with them. This article highlights simple parenting tips for ADHD. Raising a child with ADHD comes with its own challenges, but they can be managed by giving attention, encouragement, and following various approaches. Engage in challenging activities Children with ADHD are easily distracted, but not many know they only focus when they find a challenging task. When the child responds positively to a particular task, encourage them to do more of it. This will keep them active, improving their physical and mental health. Encourage physical exercise Indulging in different exercises can help the child focus better, improve sleep patterns, reduce depression or anxiety, and stimulate brain function. Follow a routine Creating a routine in daily tasks and activities can reduce the chances of distractions. Also, when the child encounters an activity or event they expect, they are prepared to complete them.

Bone degeneration is among the leading age-related health issues worldwide. Around 33% of women and 20% of men over 50 are at risk of osteoporosis. It is a disorder where bone density and mass reduction cause the bones to become so brittle that even a simple fall, cough, or sneeze can damage them. While anyone can develop osteoporosis and bone loss, the risk is higher in people with the following health conditions: Hyperthyroidism This condition results from an overactive thyroid gland present at the base of the neck. Health experts suggest that an overactive thyroid increases the number of bone-remodeling cycles. And the more the number of these cycles, the more bone loss. So, it is necessary to keep a tab on the thyroid levels to prevent such complications. Arthritis Various forms of arthritis like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis also increase the risk of bone loss. Arthritis causes weakening and inflammation of joints, which triggers the problem. Also, most forms of arthritis are managed with treatments that provide relief from its symptoms but inhibit the activity of bone-building cells. Hence, it is necessary to follow a healthy lifestyle to avoid arthritis in the first place. Diabetes Research is still underway to understand how type 1 diabetes causes bone loss.

A mental health disorder, schizophrenia, can alter the patient’s ability to behave conventionally, feel, and even think. There is no known cure for the condition, but treatment plans are designed for better management. Apart from following a prescribed treatment plan, patients are often advised to make changes to their lifestyle and eating habits. It is believed that adding or removing certain foods can help manage symptoms and decrease their severity. Gluten-rich foods Gluten is a natural protein found in several foods that are regularly consumed by the population. Increased inflammation in the body is also a leading cause of the aggravation of symptoms associated with schizophrenia. It can also put patients with gluten sensitivity, intolerance, or celiac disease at a high risk of developing conditions like intestinal complications, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Health care experts advise using grains, bread, and other food products that are 100% gluten-free in order to avoid developing complications. Replacements made from potato flour, rice flour, quinoa, or corn are safer for patients. This helps prevent the increased antibody production and action caused in the body due to gluten. Processed foods There is a reason behind the bad reputation of highly processed foods. One of the most important reasons is their lack of nutritional content.