Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), better known as autism, is a developmental condition that affects brain function. In most cases, symptoms such as delayed speech begin to show before the child turns 3. Furthermore, there are chances that the patient’s symptoms might worsen after eating certain food items; hence it’s best to avoid them. Keep reading to learn more about food choices that affect the quality of life in autism patients. Foods to avoid for autism patients After the diagnosis of ASD, doctors may suggest a few changes in the patient’s food plan. It can happen due to food aversions, gastrointestinal disorders, food allergies, and more reasons. Hence, here is a list of foods that autism patients must avoid. Sugar In most cases, people with autism show signs of hyperactivity. Hence, doctors may advise either a cut down in the sugar content or that sugar should be eliminated from the meal plan. It may help maintain optimum sugar levels that do not trigger hyperactivity. Moreover, sugar is pro-inflammatory and increases erratic brain cell firing. Corn Multiple studies indicate that the glyphosate herbicide found in corn increases the risk of autism. Furthermore, corn also has the most unhealthy fatty acid content and may promote inflammation.

Autism is a common developmental and neurological disorder that affects 1 in 100 children. It develops early in life, usually in 2-year-old children. To recognize autism spectrum disorder and get an early diagnosis, parents should learn about the warning signs of the condition. One should also get their children screened for autism spectrum disorder. Early diagnosis ensures that those affected get the necessary intervention and treatment options to improve their quality of life. Avoiding eye contact Most infants and toddlers can maintain eye contact with people around them. At just two months, babies can find faces and make eye contact with the people talking to them. Eye contact is also crucial for building a social relationship and being aware of the surroundings. Children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder may not maintain eye contact as much as other children do. If one notices their child increasingly avoiding eye contact, this could be an early sign of autism. Delayed speech Kids begin with mumbling and move on to words and sentences at varying ages. However, those with autism have been found to understand fewer words and instructions at 12 months than non-autistic children. If one has not developed the ability to form individual words or a few phrases comfortably by the age of 2, it can be an early sign of autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that is caused by differences in the brain. Those with ASD often have problems with social interaction and communication and display restricted or repetitive behaviors. ASD may also cause differences in learning, moving, or paying attention. These differences can make it challenging for autistic people to navigate through life, making it important to diagnose it early. Thus, here are some early warning signs of autism. Among younger children: Some common early signs of autism in young children include: Not responding to their name Avoiding eye contact Not smiling when someone smiles at them Getting upset if they do not like a particular taste, smell, or sound Engaging in repetitive movements such as flapping their hands, flicking their fingers, or rocking their body Not talking as much as other children Not engaging in as much pretend play Repeating the same phrases without understanding the meaning It is important to note that one child with ASD may not necessarily have the same symptoms as another. The symptoms and their severity differ with each individual. Among older children: In older children, early signs of autism may include: The inability to understand what others are thinking or feeling (lack of empathy) Unusual speech, such as repeating phrases or talking ‘at’ others Liking a strict daily routine and getting very upset if it changes Having a very keen interest in certain subjects and activities Getting very upset if someone asks them to do something Difficulty in making friends Taking things very literally, or a lack of understanding of common idioms and phrases Finding it difficult to verbalize feelings Autism may also manifest differently based on a child’s gender.

Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate, the gland that produces seminal fluid to nourish and transport sperm. It is one of the most common cancer types and is generally confined to the gland. Nutrition can help reduce prostate cancer incidence and manage cancer progression risk. Eating healthy is associated with increased energy levels, improved recovery, and an enhanced immune system. Therefore, here are the top 5 foods to eat for better management: Berries Berries, such as strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are a great source of antioxidants known as anthocyanins. These antioxidants help to neutralize and remove free radicals, which cause oxidative stress in the body, thus aiding in the process of proper DNA replication for new cells and reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Broccoli is also a prostate superfood, as it contains glucoraphanin, a phytochemical that can target and prevent cancer growth. Cruciferous vegetables have also been linked to lower levels of inflammation, thus reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Fish Cold-water fish like salmon, snapper, sardines, and trout contain good fats (omega-3 fatty acids) that ease inflammation.

The prostate is a small gland located beneath the bladder in the male reproductive system. Prostate cancer develops when there’s abnormal cell growth in one’s prostate gland. The disease progresses slowly, and its early stages are mainly asymptomatic. The chance of successful treatment is highest while the cancer is still confined to the gland. If left untreated, however, it can cause many health complications. Here are a few early signs that should prompt a prostate cancer screening. Early signs of prostate cancer Early stages of prostate cancer usually have no visible signs, but those in more advanced stages may exhibit the following symptoms: Issues with urination and bladder control The prostate gland is in proximity to the bladder, and the urethra responsible for one’s urination and sexual activity. So, one may feel the urge to empty one’s bladder more frequently or experience a burning sensation or pain while urinating. The urine flow may be weak and one may find it challenging to start or stop the flow. One may also find blood in urine or semen and a sudden shift in one’s usual bowel habits. Fatigue and nausea Cancerous cells consume a lot of energy and leave one feeling fatigued and nauseous.

Reports suggest that over 50 million people in the country suffer from different allergies each year, causing allergies to emerge as the sixth leading cause of chronic illness. Allergies may have many underlying causes, including hay fever, dust mites, medicines, certain foods, and pollution. Further, unfavorable environmental conditions can adversely affect individuals prone to allergies. Have a look at our list of the worst cities in the country for persons with allergies: Scranton Scranton has emerged as the allergy capital of the country, being ranked the worst city for people suffering from or susceptible to allergies. One of the primary causes of allergies in Scranton is the city’s higher-than-average concentration of spring and fall pollen. Several individuals react negatively to pollen, developing infections and allergies. Thus, individuals with allergies must avoid moving into Scranton for work. Bakersfield Bakersfield, with annual particular matter (PM) levels of 2.5, is classified as among the most polluted cities in the country. Studies have demonstrated that outdoor air pollution can exacerbate one’s allergies. Consequently, living in a city like Bakersfield can affect one’s health, particularly if one is vulnerable to allergic reactions. New Haven New Haven, which houses the prestigious Yale University, is another no-no for individuals with allergies, primarily due to its poor air quality and high humidity.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system. It is an immune-mediated condition that forces the body’s immune system to attack the protective covering of nerve cells. The resulting damage affects the nerve’s ability to communicate and, as a result, compromises organ function. While the disorder cannot be cured, prompt treatment helps improve the patient’s quality of life. Here are some early signs of multiple sclerosis that help with a timely diagnosis. Fatigue Around 80% of people with this health disorder experience fatigue. There is a high chance of a multiple sclerosis diagnosis if no underlying health complications or infections can explain this tiredness. Fatigue is one of the first signs as the physical limitations start affecting the patient’s daily routine. MS fatigue triggers an overwhelming sense of tiredness despite having a relaxing day. Numbness and tingling Numbness and tingling in the limbs is another early sign of multiple sclerosis. These sensations are usually observed around the extremities of the arms and feet and may persist simultaneously in one or more limbs. Specific movements can also trigger shock responses that travel across joints. Gait and vision problems Feeling off-balance or lightheaded or experiencing problems with gait and posture are advancing symptoms.

The swelling or narrowing of one’s throat or the airways to the lungs may lead to wheezing. It may further result in shortness of breath as the lugs cannot hold the necessary air when affected by swelling or mucus buildup. While such symptoms are commonly associated with asthma and chronic pulmonary disease, they may also be triggered by reactions to allergens. Therefore, one should be aware of the common allergens that affect breathing. Pollen Pollen from certain trees, grasses, and ragweed is a common trigger of asthma. The fine yellowish powder may also trigger hay fever (allergic rhinitis). But the type of pollen that causes the problem may differ from person to person and from place to place. Bee sting Someone with an allergic reaction to bee stings may suffer from anaphylaxis. It is a severe life-threatening allergic reaction, which may lead to trouble breathing and swallowing. Mold Many people suffer from mold allergies. They have a sensitive immune system that identifies minute, airborne mold spores as foreign invaders and develops allergy-causing antibodies to fight them. This results in symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath. Dust mites Dust mites are difficult to see without a microscope. They thrive in warm, humid environments, such as in bedding, carpeting, and upholstered furniture at home.

Airborne allergens are the main culprits that trigger seasonal and chronic respiratory disorders. A person can experience difficulty breathing, coughing, sore throat, wheezing, and inflammation of the nasal passage just to name a few of the discomforts. Some prescriptions can help manage moderate to severe symptoms of such allergies. Also, mild symptoms can be managed by avoiding these nine common allergens that are found in breeding indoors and outdoors. Some of them are: Pollution Particulate pollution has become one of the major triggers of respiratory disorders in urban cities. Any form of exhaust smoke, be it from vehicular or industrial pollution, can trigger inflammation in the nasal passages. This inflammation causes shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness, indicating an allergic reaction. Dust mites Dust and dust mites are two different things. Dust indoors is mostly dead skin cells and atmospheric residue that settles on surfaces. However, dust mites are microscopic bugs that breed on difficult-to-reach surfaces and multiply rapidly. Inhaling these microscopic particles can irritate and inflame the respiratory passage lining. Pollen Pollen is one of the most common airborne allergens in the country, accounting for most cases of respiratory disorders. Pollen is released by the male part of the flower to pollenate female flowers and produces seeds.

Allergies can be tough to live with. Studies indicate that environmental factors such as tree and grass pollen, dust mites, and mold trigger this condition. Some common allergic reactions include sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, runny or stuffy nose, or even swollen mucous membranes. Due to their climatic or geographical features, some cities may be bad for allergy sufferers. Keep reading to learn about cities that are best avoided if you are battling allergies. Scranton, PA According to a survey by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA ), Scranton recorded below-average scores for spring and pollen allergies. Additionally, the allergy care program is not appropriate due to the lack of availability of allergy specialists, especially during the spring and fall allergy seasons. One of the reasons behind the pollen count upsurge is the birch tree growth surrounding the city’s coal banks that trigger a reaction. Wichita, KS Wichita is another city that scores below-average points in allergy management. Due to the rising temperatures during spring, tree growth increases, leading to more pollen production. This pattern also leads to a general increase in over-the-counter (OTC) treatment options to manage allergy symptoms. McAllen, TX The cedar pollen carried into the city by the mountain breeze is a significant trigger of allergy symptoms.