According to reports, one in every five deaths in the country is due to cancer; that said, technological advancements in healthcare have increased cancer survival rates. Early diagnosis and a systematic treatment course are essential for cancer recovery. In terms of prevention, genetic testing can help understand one’s odds of developing the disease. Moreover, besides following a healthy lifestyle, including some herbs and spices in one’s meals can help with cancer prevention: Black pepper In addition to spicing up one’s soups and salads, black pepper can help lower one’s risk of cancer. This pungent condiment contains a molecule called piperine, which brings about its delectable flavor and has anti-cancer properties. Some studies have also found that black pepper can inhibit the development of colorectal cancer cells. Ginger Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger has been widely recommended as the magic ingredient to relieve colds, flu, and digestive problems, among others. Moreover, studies have shown that gingerols present in ginger have a cytotoxic effect against breast cancer cell lines. It has also been found effective in protecting against various other types of cancer, such as pancreatic, gastric, liver, and colorectal cancers. Basil The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) suggests that basil, which is packed with flavonoids, may have a protective effect against cancer.

There is nothing a warm shower cannot resolve. Showering after a long day can be a stress reliever and enhance one’s mood instantly. It also has several other health benefits besides cleansing the body, including facilitating cold relief, boosting immunity, and relieving muscle pain. However, not bathing the right way can give rise to skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing and showering: Not moisturizing after a shower Wiping after a bath can reduce the body’s moisture, causing dry skin, which can lead to rashes and itching. Dermatologists recommend applying body lotion and moisturizer immediately after a shower to retain skin texture and prevent dryness. One should look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that do not have any added fragrances. Bathing in scorching hot water Scorching hot water can damage keratin cells in the skin’s outer layer. Consequently, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated. It is important to balance the water temperature before stepping into the shower. Ideally, the temperature of the water should be lukewarm. Using the wrong towel An absorbent towel that does not feel rough is ideal for wiping oneself after a shower. The most effective way to select the right towel is to check its density, measured in grams per square meter (GSM).

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that act as the body’s defense mechanism against diseases and infections. The system —the innate immune system that people are born with and the adaptive immune system, which develops due to exposure to toxins and microbes. Both parts work together to keep infection-causing germs and toxins. So, weak immunity can make the body susceptible to diseases and other health issues. High stress levels The American Psychological Association suggests that chronic stress weakens the immune system. This is because stress lowers the number of white blood cells (i.e., lymphocytes) in the body that fight infections, increasing the risk of infections such as the common cold. Persistent cold Most adults develop two to three colds per year, which usually last from 7 to 10 days. During this period, the immune system forms antibodies to fight the virus. However, if one keeps catching a cold or is dealing with common cold symptoms for a long time, it could be a sign of weak immunity. Slow-healing wounds When one develops a cut or a wound, the body immediately goes into damage control mode to stop any bleeding and regenerate skin. Immune cells in the body guide this process.

An occasional cough or slight wheezing after climbing up a flight of stairs is normal. However, if there is a constant breathing issue, it can be a sign of weak lungs. This can happen due to several undiagnosed respiratory conditions, such as asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary embolism, bronchitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Several common symptoms usually precede all of these conditions. Here are a few common signs indicating weak lungs. Difficulty in exercising One of the most common signs of poor lung health is experiencing difficulties while exercising. Whether running, walking, swimming, cycling, or just running a flight of stairs, it becomes difficult to do any exercise routine. Doing any physical activity makes one out of breath pretty quickly. This happens when the lungs are weak and cannot breathe enough oxygen. As a result, the oxygen levels drop, making one breathless sooner. Pain in the shoulders This is one of the most easily recognizable symptoms of pulmonary embolism and lung cancer. It is a sharp pain that shoots up near the neck. Over time, it radiates towards the upper arm and the upper back. The pain starts from forming a blood clot or tumor in any of the lungs’ arteries.

The immune system functions as the body’s gatekeeper, warding off harmful external agents like bacteria and germs and protecting against related health conditions. Hence, a strong immune system is essential to ensuring physical well-being. The immune system’s strength is determined by several factors, including the prevalence of lifestyle diseases and one’s food intake. Several studies have associated excessive sugar intake with a weakened immune system. Here are some ways in which sugar can affect immunity: How sugar affects the immune system This is how excess sugar intake affects the immune system: Diabetes Excessive sugar intake is directly linked to the onset of type-2 diabetes and hyperglycemia, a condition caused by excessive glucose concentrations in the body. Hyperglycemia inhibits the immune response, increasing the risk of developing bacterial and viral infections. Cholesterol Excessive amounts of sugar can lower good cholesterol and increase LDL cholesterol levels. The accumulation of cholesterol in the immune cells can trigger inflammation and weaken the immune system. Tooth decay Excessive sugar consumption has been commonly associated with tooth decay. However, recent research has demonstrated that tooth decay is not restricted to the oral region. The infection can eventually spread to other body parts, weakening the immune system considerably and increasing susceptibility to heart and lung diseases, stroke, etc.

Chronic lung diseases accounted for over 150,000 deaths in the country in 2020. These conditions may affect the airways, lung tissue, or blood circulation in the lungs. The occurrence of lung diseases is exacerbated by the inhalation of chemical irritants and toxins in home and work environments. Although most diseases are caused by repeated, long-term exposure to hazardous substances, even a one-time or indirect exposure may cause lasting damage to the lungs. Household factors that may cause lung damage Mold Mold is a type of fungus. It multiplies by forming spores, which can remain suspended in the air for long periods. These spores may cause serious infections for those with mold allergies, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD), or a weak immune system. To avoid mold growth around the house, fix any leaks, avoid compost piles, and get rid of clumps of cut grass promptly. Carpet Carpet fabric has several crevices that can trap mold, cockroach droppings, dust mites, and even toxic gasses. This can have a significant impact on one’s lungs. Instead of carpets, look into wood flooring, as it is easier to clean. Alternatively, invest in rugs that can be washed and cleaned regularly. Ideally, carpets must be vacuumed at least three times a week and steam cleaned once a year.

Cancer develops due to the rapid mutation of cells. The condition is typically progressive in nature, and factors like age, lifestyle, and location of the tumor determine the spread and severity of symptoms. When such abnormal cell growth develops in the colon—a part of the large intestine, it can cause gastrointestinal problems and other health issues. Here, understanding the common signs of colon cancer can help get an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early signs The colon and rectum are two organs connected to the digestive tract. While the colon collects and stores all the foods processed by the small and large intestines, the rectum removes these stored foods through bowel movements. Both parts must function together to enable seamless bowel movement. However, when dealing with cancer, the growth of the tumor affects the key functions of these organs, leading to the following early signs: Nausea and vomiting Most conditions that develop in the digestive tract trigger nausea and vomiting. So, this type of discomfort is one of the early signs of colon cancer as well. As cancer grows, it can result in blockage in the bowels, forcing the solids and liquids to back up into the digestive tract, triggering nausea and vomiting that could last over 24 hours.

With everyone increasingly consuming processed foods, excessive sugar consumption has become a global health concern. The increased intake of packaged foods, snacks, and sugary beverages poses a significant risk for several health problems, including heart disease. In addition, increased sugar consumption can lead to diabetes, hypertension, and other health disorders. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the following early signs of heart disease due to excess sugar to take preventive measures. Insulin resistance Insulin is the hormone that controls the levels of glucose or sugar in the blood. The body’s cells cannot effectively respond to the hormone when insulin resistance develops. As a result, glucose cannot get into cells and starts accumulating in the blood. Excess sugar consumed through meals and snacks increases the possibility of insulin resistance. It directly increases the risk of heart disease as well. High blood pressure One of the first signs that indicate the risk of heart disease due to excess sugar is high blood pressure levels. When consuming high sugar daily, one develops insulin resistance, leading to an elevated blood pressure level. This impacts the arteries and the heart, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. So it is imperative to check your blood pressure levels.