PursuitMag.net | Read, Discover, Repeat!

Home - health - Top 9 Foods To Avoid With Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Top 9 Foods to Avoid With Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the esophagus -the muscular tube that allows food to pass from the throat to the stomach- causing discomfort. Various factors contribute to developing the condition or triggering flare-ups, including certain food items. Understanding these trigger factors helps patients explore alternatives that are healthy to eat while managing the condition. Keep reading to learn more about foods that worsen EoE symptoms and how to avoid them.

Chocolate

Unfortunately, chocolate can be a trigger for EoE. Studies suggest foods that carry a higher probability of causing heartburn or acid reflux can worsen eosinophilic esophagitis in patients. Chocolate is one such food that is counter-indicated for patients with heartburn. To avoid complications, satisfy your sweet tooth with carob-based treats or enjoy desserts with alternative ingredients.

Nuts

Peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and many other nuts can result in an allergic response. Intake of these nuts can trigger severe EoE symptoms. Allergic reaction in the body leads to increased inflammatory levels and swelling. Replace nuts and peanuts with seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or explore nut-free alternatives.

Seafood

Seafood is often considered one of the healthiest sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, shellfish and fish are also among the foods people can be allergic to. Intake of seafood can trigger eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms in some individuals. It can increase inflammation in the esophagus and might even trigger acid reflux in some patients. To improve symptom management and the severity of the condition, avoiding these foods from the meal plan is best. Instead, one can opt for other protein sources like chicken, turkey, or legumes.

Soy

Soy is a common source of food allergy in individuals. Its regular use might even lead to people developing sensitivity or experiencing digestional discomfort. Excessive intake of soy sauce, soy milk, and tofu can lead to complications as all of these products contain a type of protein that elicits an increased immune response in susceptible individuals. It can cause inflammation in the body. Soy is also a common product in various processed foods which may exacerbate EoE symptoms. One can seek anti-inflammatory alternatives like almond milk, coconut aminos, or other non-soy options.

Milk

Milk and dairy-based products, like yogurt and cheese, can easily trigger eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms. It is because of the presence of whey protein, casein, lactose, and other ingredients. These proteins can trigger an immune response, increasing inflammatory reaction and esophageal discomfort. Furthermore, dairy products are high in fat and can worsen symptoms like heartburn. Therefore, it is advisable to switch to dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk-based products, almond milk, and other lactose-free options.

Wheat

Wheat is one of the most common sources of gluten. It is a widely used grain, along with others like rye and barley. Pasta, bread, and various baked food items contain wheat in them. Gluten is a type of protein that can give rise to immune-mediated reactions, causing esophageal inflammation and discomfort. To avoid this, use gluten-free grains to power your meals. One can switch to quinoa, rice, pasta, and gluten-free bread. Gluten can trigger an immune response in people with gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, and EoE. Skipping foods containing wheat has been shown to reduce flare-ups in patients and allow for better symptom management.

Eggs

Eggs are another food item that causes an allergic response in EoE patients. The protein albumin found in egg whites is often responsible for triggering allergic reactions. Including eggs in the daily meal plan can increase the frequency and severity of symptoms. Replace eggs in recipes with substitutes like mashed banana, applesauce, or commercially available egg replacers.

Spicy foods

Spicy foods, including peppers, hot sauces, and chili powder, can irritate the esophagus and intensify EoE symptoms.

Artificial additives

Certain artificial additives, such as food colorings, preservatives like sulfites, and flavor enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG), can trigger EoE symptoms. Read food labels carefully and opt for fresh, minimally processed foods to avoid potential triggers.

Healthy foods to eat

While the above foods need to be avoided, there is also a similar list of foods that helps patients better navigate their EoE symptoms. These include-

Banana- Bananas are a rich source of fiber and low acid content. Since patients with EoE often struggle with acid reflux, the potassium found in bananas helps alleviate their symptoms. The fruit helps neutralize the acidity in the patient’s stomach. One can add it to the breakfast bowls or smoothies or have it as a snack option.
Turmeric- Turmeric is well renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, is found helpful in reducing the severity of inflammation in the stomach and the esophagus.
Leafy green vegetables- Green leafy vegetables carry high fiber content and are rich in essential nutrients. Vegetables like kale, collards, and spinach are also rich sources of antioxidants. The high nutrient value of these vegetables can help reduce inflammation levels and simultaneously help lower the severity of EoE symptoms.

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a severe health condition that, if left untreated, can lead to the narrowing of the esophagus. Furthermore, it can lead to permanent damage and scars that make it hard for a patient to eat. Living with this chronic disorder can also affect an individual’s mental well-being. To manage the symptoms effectively, one should consult a nutritional expert who will suggest remedies like an elimination meal plan to determine which food items are the trigger factors. Health experts often recommend a six-food elimination meal plan, which involves excluding foods like milk, eggs, wheat, nuts, soy, and fish. However, after recovering from the symptoms, one can gradually reintroduce these foods to the daily meal plan.

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmerâs market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake. Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cowâs milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

6 Warning Signs of Dementia that Cannot be Ignored

Dementia is a progressive disease that often begins with subtle changes in memory, mood, and behavior but can quickly lead to a loss of independence and cognitive function. In the following article, we will discuss six red flags that indicate the presence of dementia that one should not ignore and avoid in the future. Identifying the early warning signs of dementia is crucial to receiving an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Warning signs of dementia Memory loss It is one of the commonly known signs of dementia. If your loved one seems to be forgetting important details about themselves, their family, or life events, it could indicate dementia. While everyone experiences some degree of forgetfulness as they age, significant memory loss that disrupts daily life is a red flag. They might forget recent events or conversations, repeat themselves frequently, and rely heavily on notes or reminders to remember basic tasks. In some cases, individuals with dementia might also forget important dates like birthdays or anniversaries or lose track of the season or year. If you notice your loved one is struggling to remember information that was previously easy to recall, it may be time to talk to a healthcare professional. Difficulty with everyday tasks Another alarming sign of dementia is difficulty with everyday tasks. Individuals with dementia may struggle with simple tasks such as dressing themselves, grooming, and even basic hygiene routines like bathing or brushing their teeth. This can be caused by forgetfulness, confusion, and lack of focus. Another task that can become challenging for those with dementia is preparing meals or handling money. This may result in forgetting to turn off the stove or leaving food uncooked, leading to safety concerns. They may also struggle with handling money, paying bills, or remembering how to operate household appliances. Sometimes, people with dementia may have difficulty finding their way around their homes or community, which can cause them to feel lost or disoriented. This is due to their impaired spatial awareness and memory. Attention to these signs is crucial as they impact an individual's ability to live independently. Caregivers and family members can assist in helping the individual maintain their independence for as long as possible. This may involve creating a structured routine and breaking down tasks into manageable steps. Disorientation and confusion Dementia can cause disorientation and confusion, which are concerning symptoms. People may become disoriented in familiar places, forget the purpose of objects or activities, and have difficulty keeping track of time and dates. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience confusion about their identity, recognizing their loved ones, and remembering where they live. They may also become agitated, anxious, or distressed when they cannot orient themselves in their surroundings. If someone you know is experiencing disorientation and confusion regularly, it's crucial to seek medical advice as soon as possible. An experienced physician can help diagnose the cause of these symptoms and provide appropriate treatment and support to help manage the condition. Impaired judgment and decision making One of the concerning warning signs of dementia is a decline in a person's judgment and decision-making abilities. As dementia progresses, individuals may have difficulty making simple decisions or solving problems they previously would have found easy. They may begin to make poor choices that can have significant consequences. For example, they may forget to turn off the stove, leave doors unlocked, or wander away from home without realizing the danger. In some cases, individuals with dementia may also become more vulnerable to financial scams and fraud. They may be persuaded to hand over large sums of money to strangers or engage in risky investments. As caregivers or family members, monitoring a loved one's decision-making abilities and being vigilant to changes in their behavior is essential. If you notice your loved one making questionable choices, addressing the issue immediately is essential. Personality and mood changes Dementia affects memory and cognitive abilities and can also impact a person's personality and mood. If you notice your loved one displaying drastic changes in their mood or behavior, it may be a sign of dementia. Some personality changes associated with dementia include becoming more withdrawn, apathetic, irritable, or paranoid. Individuals may also display impulsive behavior, sudden mood swings, or become more socially inappropriate. It's important to note that these personality changes can be tough to distinguish from other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety. However, it is better to consult a healthcare professional when these symptoms occur along with memory loss or difficulty with everyday tasks. Personality and mood changes are a natural and standard part of aging and may not necessarily indicate dementia. However, if other warning signs of dementia accompany these changes, seeking medical attention and ruling out any underlying conditions is essential. A timely diagnosis and treatment can slow the advancement of dementia and improve quality of life. Withdrawal from social activities One of the most telling signs of dementia is when someone suddenly loses interest in social activities. If someone you care about was once sociable and enjoyed chatting with friends and family but has stopped attending social events or calling people they used to talk to regularly, it's important to look into the cause. People with dementia may withdraw because they struggle with communication or find social situations too overwhelming. It's common for those with dementia to feel embarrassed or ashamed of their condition and fear judgment from others. They may also avoid social situations as they struggle with fatigue or feel uncomfortable in new surroundings. Whatever the reason for the withdrawal, it's essential to encourage your loved one to remain socially active for as long as possible. Staying connected with family and friends helps to stimulate their minds and prevent feelings of loneliness and depression. If you notice that your loved one is avoiding social activities, try to determine the reason and work with them to find solutions. You may need to offer additional assistance, like coordinating transportation or accompanying them to events. Another option is creating smaller, more intimate gatherings to alleviate any feelings of being overwhelmed.

Our Blogs

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia in the atria or the heart’s upper two chambers. It causes a disturbance in the typical cycle of the electrical impulses in the heart. The condition results in a rapid and chaotic heart rhythm and poor blood movement from the upper chambers to the ventricles or the lower chambers. Below, we address the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AFib. Causes AFib, or a change in the electrical signals in the heart, can affect anyone, regardless of age. But it is more prevalent in older people. A few risk factors that amplify the condition’s susceptibility are: Heart diseases People with an underlying heart condition, like a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure, have a greater risk of AFib. Hypertension If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain the heart and aggravate the risk of this disorder. Familial link People with a family history of AFib have a greater chance of suffering from the condition. Sleep apnea This sleep disorder can also increase a person’s susceptibility to AFib, especially if it is severe. Besides the above, other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, and thyroid also put a person at risk of this heart problem.

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see.

Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that destroys the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details. It can make activities like reading, writing, and driving difficult or impossible. The disease typically occurs in older adults and can lead to blindness. While macular degeneration can be managed in its early stages, it has no cure. This article discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a disease of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. The former develops when the macula dries out and loses its function. Wet macular degeneration is a result of new blood vessels under the retina leaking fluid or blood, causing vision loss. Symptoms of macular degeneration The symptoms of macular degeneration can develop differently in individuals, but here are the typical signs one must note. One of the main symptoms is a gradual loss of central vision, which can progress over time and may not be noticeable at first. Additional symptoms are difficulty reading small print or close-up objects, trouble seeing in dim light or when looking up from a low angle, problems with depth perception and peripheral vision, and poor night vision.

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry, red, and itchy skin. It typically appears around the arms, elbows, and knees; however, it can show up anywhere. As the condition can flare up due to various triggers, it is vital to understand its nature and how to treat it. This article provides a guide to everything one needs to know about eczema, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and helpful management tips. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that can be both painful and itchy. It can also be embarrassing, as it often appears as a rash on the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body. Because eczema weakens your skin’s barrier, you’re also more susceptible to infection. Is eczema contagious? There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eczema is contagious. There are some reports of people with eczema who have also had close family members with it, but these cases are rare and not always linked. Something in the person’s environment (such as dust mites or other allergens) may trigger the condition in someone who has never had it before. Symptoms of eczema Eczema is a skin condition that can be extremely frustrating for those who suffer from it.

Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps are a significantly underrated problem. Most people only experience minor symptoms, so the polyps are often left untreated until they cause more problems. This article will look at the triggers, symptoms, and management of nasal polyps in more detail. We will start by looking at nasal polyps and what causes them. Finally, we will look at the best ways to treat nasal polyps to ensure that one gets rid of them quickly and safely. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are benign growths on the nasal septum, the cartilage that separates one’s nose from the throat. They’re usually harmless but can cause problems if they block the nasal airway or make breathing difficult. Symptoms of nasal polyps Following are some symptoms of nasal polyps: Headaches Nasal polyps may cause headaches due to their enlarged blood vessels in the skull. The pressure from these enlarged vessels may cause pain behind one’s eyes or along the temples. Snoring Snoring is often caused by an obstruction of airflow through the nose during sleep. This obstruction causes the throat to vibrate, producing a noise known as snoring. Nasal congestion When mucus accumulates in the nose due to blocked airflow, it can cause nasal congestion and an unpleasant smell called rhinorrhea (a discharge from the nose).

10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

Chronic inflammation of the large intestine, or ulcerative colitis , is a devastating and exhausting disease that can wreak havoc on every aspect of one’s life. From physical health to mental well-being, ulcerative colitis can take a toll on overall health if left untreated. Here are simple ways to manage ulcerative colitis. By following them under a doctor’s supervision, you can take back control of life and manage the condition better. What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. UC acts on the innermost walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is a chronic condition that can last for months or even years. Types of ulcerative colitis Ulcerative proctitis is the most common type and accounts for about two-thirds of all UC cases. People with this type have frequent episodes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Ulcers may form in the rectum or anus. Proctosigmoiditis is less common than ulcerative proctitis but affects more people overall because it causes more severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea that may lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Extensive colitis/pancolitis occurs when inflammation spreads beyond the rectum or anus to other parts of the gastrointestinal tract (large intestine and small intestine).