Schizophrenia is a term used to signify a spectrum of disorders that involve a disconnection from reality. Its symptoms include paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations. It is a serious but treatable disorder, and patients can live a healthy and fulfilling life. Schizophrenia is also a particular mental health condition that falls under the spectrum mentioned above. According to the World Health Organization, schizophrenia affects approximately 1 in 300 people across the globe. Stages and symptoms of schizophrenia The condition can be broadly divided into three stages. Each of these stages has a different level or intensity of symptoms. Prodrome or onset is when patients have mild symptoms. It can be identified by signs like lack of personal hygiene, anxiety, and social withdrawal. The active stage is when the symptoms are more intense, and the patient has been disconnecting from reality. The following symptoms can be observed during the active phase: Depression Depression is a common health condition that is a cause for concern. Individuals who are depressed and lack trust in others or have misplaced distrust in others can be considered at a greater risk of schizophrenia. Other signs that can be present along with depression include increased pessimism and delusions.

Multiple sclerosis is a potentially disabling condition of the brain and spinal cord, wherein the immune system attacks the protective sheath that covers the nerve fibers. This issue causes communication problems between the brain and other body parts, leading to permanent damage or deterioration of the nerves. Signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis differ from one person to another over the course of the disease and the location of the affected nerve fibers. Symptoms There are quite a few common signs of multiple sclerosis, some of them include Numbness or weakness in the limbs Shocking sensations with certain neck movements Tremors and unsteady gait Partial or complete loss of vision Prolonged double vision Blurry vision Slurred speech Fatigue Dizziness Tingling or pain in some parts of the body Risk factors The following factors are known to have quite a major role as far as the development of multiple sclerosis is concerned: Age Such a condition can occur at any age, but the onset usually begins between the ages of 20 and 40. Gender Women are more likely to develop relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis compared to men. Family history Those with an immediate relative who has such a condition have a much higher chance of being diagnosed too.

Flawless and ageless-looking skin is a goal that most individuals aim for. And these people pick up several skin care hacks and routines from magazines, online videos, and by word-of-mouth to maintain the texture of their skin. However, most people are unaware that certain routines may negatively affect the skin, contrary to claims by several websites and companies. So, here are five skincare mistakes that may lead to premature aging if left unchecked. Going to bed with makeup Many individuals return from work and sleep with makeup on. If a person is out, they expose themselves to hoards of pollution. The free radicals in the air quickly latch on and embed themselves in the exposed surfaces of the skin. These radicals can affect the body’s natural ability to produce collagen and elastin. This makeup also clogs pores, making it impossible for the skin to recover. Furthermore, not washing off such pollutants may lead to the development of fine lines and premature wrinkles. So one must ensure they wash off all makeup before bed. Also, it is equally important to cleanse when one wakes up in the morning to get rid of the dirt that develops on the skin overnight. Neglecting sunscreen Several people tread outdoors without sunscreen, especially when the climate is cooler.

Crohn’s is a common inflammatory bowel disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. There are different forms of Crohn’s disease, and the symptoms generally vary depending on the location. Such a condition can be managed to improve one’s quality of life by combining prescriptions, treatments, and alternative remedies. Simple changes in daily nutrition can also help avoid flare-ups. Here are the common foods to avoid or have in moderation with Crohn’s disease. Nuts with skin on Crohn’s disease primarily affects the digestive system’s ability to process foods. So, food not rich in soluble fibers will put the system under pressure. Assorted nuts are foods that fall under this risk category, as people with Crohn’s disease will not be able to digest the healthy fats and nutrients when nuts are consumed raw. Nuts can also irritate the lining of the gut, causing pain and triggering flare-ups. Unpeeled fruits Fruits, in their natural and organic form, pack a ton of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are good for gut health and overall immunity. However, it becomes exceedingly difficult for the body to process raw fruits, especially with the peel on, when one is suffering from digestive distress caused by Crohn’s disease. One of the reasons is that the fruit’s pulp contains soluble fibers, but the fibers in the peel cannot be dissolved, making digestion a lot harder.

ADHD, short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a mental health condition commonly observed in children between the ages of 3 and 7. It can also be diagnosed later in life and continue into adulthood if left untreated. ADHD primarily affects one’s behavior patterns, making one seem restless, have trouble concentrating, and feel hyperactive. While the disorder can be treated with remedies and behavioral therapy, certain foods can help ADHD patients manage their symptoms better. Can food affect ADHD? Yes, studies show that food and ADHD are closely associated. A Harvard study has proven that people who eat healthily are able to regulate their emotions better, manage stress, and enhance their brain functions. What foods should ADHD patients avoid? People with ADHD must be mindful of their eating habits because certain foods tend to aggravate its symptoms. Candies It is advised for one to reduce or completely stop having foods with refined sugar and saturated fat. The refined carbs in packaged sugar candies trigger a quick spike, followed by a crash in blood glucose levels. While the spike causes hyperactivity, the crash in sugar level leaves people feeling spacey, confused, and inattentive. Cakes and frosting Cake mix and frostings are loaded with artificial sweeteners and refined sugar, which causes hyperactivity.

Colorectal cancer, sometimes called colon cancer, is the fourth most common cancer among men and women. It develops in the colon (the large intestine), where healthy cells rapidly mutate and multiply out of control, leading to cancerous growth. Early screening and treatment can help prevent the disease’s progression. Doctors also suggest a nutrition plan and lifestyle changes to help manage the symptoms. Here are some foods colon cancer patients may include in their meal plans. Fatty fish Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish are known to help reduce the effect of inflammation in several diseases, including cancers. Studies show that salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel significantly lower the risk of colon cancer, especially among women. Protein Proteins are the building blocks of muscle tissue and are crucial for maintaining immunity, especially after a cancer diagnosis. However, patients must opt for lean protein sources, like chicken and turkey. Eggs are also an excellent poultry alternative to increase natural protein intake daily. Colored vegetables Cruciferous and non-starchy vegetables are rich in fiber, essential nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins A, B, and E, which are necessary for fighting cancer-causing free radicals. Broccoli, kale, cabbage, artichokes, cucumbers, carrots, celery, okra, cauliflower, and spinach are a few examples.

The colon is the largest part of the large intestine that is connected to the anus through the rectum. Colorectal (colon) cancer is a health condition where the cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably. Colon cancer starts as polyp growths that are removable in the early stages. However, without proper diagnoses, the symptoms of this disease may often be misidentified and left untreated. So here are four early signs of colorectal cancer: Anemia Anemia is a deficiency of red blood cells that can cause tiredness, weakness, and shortness of breath. Anemia can be brought on by gastrointestinal complications, heavy menstruation, or trauma/surgery. However, someone who loses blood because of colon cancer is also susceptible to developing this condition. Blood in stool People with colon cancer may notice blood in their stools or rectal bleeding as an early sign of the disease. The stools may also appear black or dark, indicating dried blood. The intensity of the symptom will differ based on how far colorectal cancer has progressed. Fatigue In most instances, one mistakes fatigue as a symptom of being tired. But if one’s energy levels are low even after adequate rest, it might be a sign of colorectal cancer.

Immune thrombocytopenia, commonly referred to as ITP, is a health condition where a person bleeds excessively and easily, even during minor injuries. This bleeding is because of a low platelet count, which prevents the blood from clotting as it usually does. Many patients also experience purplish bruises or tiny dots on the skin that look like a rash. Read on to learn about the foods for managing immune thrombocytopenia and those best avoided. Foods that help Fresh fruits and veggies Fruits and vegetables are filled with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, folate, and other nutrients. Folate, in particular, has been linked to improved production of platelets. It also supports the function of the platelets in the blood. The best folate-rich leafy greens are spinach, kale, cabbage, and collard greens. Among fruits, one can choose oranges, papaya, and bananas. Healthy fats Not all fats are bad for overall health. A few types, known as healthy fats, are found in nuts, nut butter, avocados, and seeds. They are mainly unsaturated and contain tons of other nutrients essential for the body. Individuals with immune thrombocytopenia often feel fatigued, and these healthy fats help fight this symptom without compromising overall health. Lean proteins Proteins are considered the building blocks of the body.