Determining how much water to drink each day can be a challenge. Experts don’t always agree and recommendations may vary depending on the source. According to research conducted by the National Academy of Medicine, men should aim for about 15.5 cups of water per day and women should aim for about 11.5 cups per day, adjusting for factors like activity level and environment. When you choose to drink your water is also an important factor. Whether you prefer bottled water, natural flavored sparkling water, premium spring water, or tap water in a variety of cool water bottles—or maybe you’re considering installing an in-home water filtration system?—drinking water at these times can help you see the most benefit: 1. Before each meal It’s common to enjoy a beverage with a meal, but drinking a glass of water before each meal can be especially helpful. Research shows that drinking water before a meal helps you feel more full, which then helps prevent overeating. One study found that participants who drank about two cups of water before eating experienced significant changes in weight and body fat levels. Another found that people who drank water before a meal ate nearly 13 percent less than those who did not.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men worldwide, causing stress and dissatisfaction in relationships. Prescription medications like Sildenafil and Tadalafil are often the go-to solutions for ED. However, there are several lifestyle changes and tips to lower the risk of ED and reduce the need for ED meds. In this listicle, we will explore eight simple ways you can decrease your chances of experiencing erectile dysfunction: 1. Maintain a healthy diet A well-balanced diet is crucial for overall health and wellbeing. Consuming nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can improve blood flow and cardiovascular health, which are both essential for reducing the risk of ED. 2. Exercise regularly Regular physical activity can enhance blood circulation, increase energy levels, and promote a healthy weight – all factors that contribute to better erectile function. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. 3. Limit alcohol consumption Excessive alcohol intake can have a negative impact on sexual performance. Alcohol is a depressant and can decrease libido, making it more challenging to achieve and maintain an erection. Limit your alcohol consumption to moderate levels – no more than two drinks per day for men.

Eczema is a prevalent skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. While there are several factors that can contribute to eczema, certain soaps and soap ingredients can trigger flare-ups and exacerbate symptoms. Medications such as Otezla (Apremilast), Dupixent (Dupilumab), and Cibinqo (Abrocitinib) can also cause eczema as a side effect. In this article, we will focus on the common soaps and soap ingredients that trigger eczema: 1. Strong fragrance soaps Fragrances are a common ingredient in many soaps, but they can be a significant trigger for eczema. Fragrances can cause irritation and inflammation in the skin, leading to redness, itching, and dryness. If you have eczema, it is best to avoid soaps with added fragrances. 2. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in soaps SLS is a surfactant commonly found in soaps and shampoos. It helps to create a lather and cleanse the skin. However, it can also strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. If you have eczema, it is best to avoid soaps that contain SLS. 3. Antibacterial soaps Antibacterial soaps are designed to kill bacteria on the skin. However, they can also kill the beneficial bacteria that help to keep the skin healthy.

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain that causes recurring and unprovoked seizures, which are the main sign of epilepsy. A diagnosis is based on a person having had two or more unprovoked seizures. Seizures are a result of a temporary change in the brain where excessive electrical activity occurs and, in turn, alters an individual’s behavior. While medications such as Epidolex (Cannabidiol), Aptiom (Eslicarbazepine acetate), Vimpat (Lacosamide), Fycompa (Perampanel), Lyrica (Pregabalin), and Midazolam injections can assist in controlling seizures, there are certain foods that can trigger seizures and worsen the condition of those with epilepsy. Here are some foods to avoid if you suffer from epilepsy: 1. Caffeine  Many drinks contain caffeine such as coffee, tea, sodas, energy drinks, and so on. Consuming caffeine increases the risk of seizures in that it has the ability to lower the efficacy of certain epilepsy medications while also potentially interfering with sleep patterns that can trigger tiredness seizures. While it may depend on the individual, someone who stops drinking caffeine after regular intake may experience withdrawal, thus, triggering seizures. 2. Sugar Blood sugar levels can have a significant impact on the number of seizures an epileptic individual may experience. As such, it is important to monitor how much sugar you consume and avoid known sugary foods such as cakes, cookies, or ice cream.

Purchasing travel insurance can ease a worried mind when planning a trip as it will cover financial losses associated with unforeseen circumstances. From standard travel insurance medical coverage to cruise travel insurance, and travel insurance for seniors to travel interruption insurance that covers trip insurance for flights and other unforeseen circumstances that prevent a trip, there is surely a form that will suit the specific needs for your trip. Although getting travel insurance online from providers like Manulife Global Travel Insurance can be a lifesaver, it is important to know the details of what exactly it covers before you begin making assumptions. Here are 8 things travel insurance does not cover: 1. Natural disasters that started before you bought travel insurance If a natural disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, or volcano eruption is speculated to occur during your trip, you must purchase travel insurance before it actually happens. In the scenario of a hurricane, if it has begun before you buy insurance, you will have missed the window of coverage that would compensate for hurricane-related trip cancellations. With this in mind, you should consider buying travel insurance immediately after you book your trip. 2. Last minute cancellations If you decide at the last minute that you would rather not set sail on the cruise ship trip you planned, your travel insurance will not reimburse you.

Allergies and asthma often go hand in hand; the same triggers for allergy symptoms are often also triggers for asthma. Things like pollen, dust, pet dander, and some foods can be a trigger for the two. There are some treatment options, like Flonase nose spray for allergies and asthma prescription medicines. In addition to using these, you should try to avoid the triggers as best you can. When it comes to your diet, it can be hard to eliminate your favorites, but if it helps you avoid a stuffy nose, hives, itchy eyes, breathlessness, and coughing, it might just be worth it. Here are the 8 worst foods for asthma and allergies that you should avoid: 1. Shellfish While containing sulfites that worsen asthma by affecting the airway mucosa and potentially triggering bronchospasm, shellfish are large allergens for many individuals. Although the exact relation is unknown, there is a link between asthma and allergies—if you have asthma, you may also be allergic to shellfish. 2. Beans We all know that beans cause bloating and gas build up, but did you know that this can put pressure on your diaphragm and leave you feeling short of breath? In combination, the bloating and chest pressure, and any anxiety or stress you experience from the feeling of it, can cause an asthma attack.

Your cat is an important member of the family. However, unlike your husband or teenager, your beloved feline isn’t able to verbalize when they are feeling unwell, especially if your cat develops a chronic condition and shows subtle symptoms over time. Cats, as a survival instinct, also tend to hide their illness (as this protects them from predators in the wild). However, certain symptoms that last over time—such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, increased thirst, and mobility issues—can indicate an existing health issue and even an emergency that needs immediate veterinary attention enough to prompt an in person or online vet appointment, or a reason to contact your pet insurance provider for more information: 1. Litterbox changes Changes in urination is a common sign that your cat may have an underlying health issue—including a urinary tract infection (UTI) or a problem with their kidney function. Look for and monitor your pet for any changes in urinary frequency and quantity, blood in urine, or urination outside of the litter box (did you recently change litters, try Clorox Fresh Step litter). An emergency arises when cats strain to pee but no urine is released. If this occurs, please bring your cat to a vet immediately.

Type 2 diabetes impacts the body’s use of glucose for fuel—it stops the body from being able to use insulin properly which, in turn, leads to high levels of blood sugar if left untreated. One of the most used medications and treatments for diabetes is the injection of insulin, whether that be through a pen or pump. However, one of the best ways to regulate blood sugar is by making good dietary decisions, so it’s good to know the best snacks for type 2 diabetes. Your glucose levels can then be monitored using a CGM device. Here’s some dietary tips to control and manage diabetes: 1. Limit alcohol consumption Regular consumption of alcohol can impact blood sugar levels. Heavy drinking can result in ketoacidosis and hypertriglyceridemia, sugary drinks can spike blood sugar levels, and worse, if you haven’t eaten, your levels could get too low. Drink responsibly and in moderation, if you are female, one drink per day as maximum, and if you are male, two drinks per day as maximum is recommended. 2. Reduce foods with added sugars Reducing foods with added sugars is essential for blood sugar management and good overall health—it’s imperative that you check the labels on packages for added sugars.

Respiratory syncytial virus is a common respiratory infection that results in mild cold symptoms, including runny nose, coughing, sneezing, loss of appetite, fever, and wheezing. Most individuals recover quickly, but it can be more severe in infant and elderly individuals. If left untreated, respiratory syncytial virus can result in bronchiolitis and pneumonia. In fact, it is the most common cause of these two infections in children younger than 1 year. Luckily, there are respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) treatments, such as Ribavirin. If you are a high risk individuals, you should attempt to prevent RSV—here’s how: 1. Wash your hands often Whether you’ve been at home all day or went out to run errands, you should be washing your hands often. Use soap and water and wash for at least 20 seconds. If you’re on the go, make sure you carry a hand sanitizer with you that is at least 60% alcohol for optimal disinfectant. Keeping your hands clean will keep you free from germs and bacteria. 2. Avoid close contact with sick people Especially during peak cold and flu season, you should avoid close contact with people who have cold-like symptoms. This includes shaking hands, kissing, sharing utensils, and sharing drinks.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart arrhythmia that is caused by changes to the heart’s tissue or electrical signaling that assists with heartbeat, resulting in a heartbeat that’s too slow, too quick, or beats irregularly. AFib can stem from patients who have gone through transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) surgeries, a minimally invasive surgery to replace an aortic valve that doesn’t open properly—it is reported that about 1 in 10 TAVR patients get new-onset AFib. It typically is not life threatening; however, it is a serious condition that requires treatment. To help manage and prevent heart failures caused by AFib, there are pacemakers for AFib, some of the best ECG/EKG monitors include EMAY Portable ECG Monitor and Wellue Portable EKG Monitor. Another way to help manage AFib is through your diet: 1. Vegetables Vegetables offer great sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential to your diet, thus keeping you and your heart healthy. Just be careful with certain vegetables if you’re taking blood thinners, as vitamin K found in high amounts in some veggies can block the medication—avoid or reduce amounts of kale, spinach, and cauliflower. 2. Whole-grains Oats, barley, quinoa, whole grain bread, and brown rice are just some of the whole grains that you should be eating to help manage AFib.