Home - Health - Managing Multiple Myeloma – Best And Worst Foods

Managing Multiple Myeloma – Best and Worst Foods

Managing Multiple Myeloma – Best and Worst Foods

Multiple myeloma is a form of cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow and is associated with severe health complications. Many symptoms of multiple myeloma can go unnoticed until the disease has progressed to other parts of the body. So, recognizing uncommon signs of the condition can help one get an early diagnosis. Further, treatment options and lifestyle changes, including choosing the right foods, can help manage the condition.

Best foods
Certain foods can help one manage multiple myeloma symptoms and maintain strength when undergoing treatment.

Fruits and herbs: Ursolic acid is a naturally occurring compound in foods like apples, basil, rosemary, and cranberries. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, which can help reduce the symptoms of this condition. Apples are especially rich in ursolic acid, making them a great choice for those with multiple myeloma. Further, pterostilbene, a compound found in blueberries, has been linked to potential anti-cancer benefits. Its antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation and fight free radicals.

Cruciferous vegetables: Isothiocyanates are natural compounds found in cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. The compounds are derived from sulfur-containing chemicals that may inhibit cancer cell growth. Studies suggest that isothiocyanates can reduce the risk of multiple myeloma and other types of cancer. Additionally, isothiocyanates have been found to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Iron-rich foods : Iron is essential for a healthy immune system and helps the body make red blood cells. One can find the nutrient in beans, chickpeas, lentils, and nuts. Additionally, one should ensure they get enough vitamins and minerals from sources other than food.

Turmeric: Curcumin is an active ingredient in turmeric, a spice widely used in several cuisines. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help relieve certain multiple myeloma symptoms.

Foods with folate: Folate or vitamin B9 is essential for cell growth and health. It is found in many fruits and vegetables, like black-eyed peas, broccoli, lentils, and green leafy vegetables. Folate helps keep homocysteine levels in check, which is an amino acid linked to an increased risk of multiple myeloma.

Sources of vitamin C, D, and B12: Vitamin C helps absorb iron from food, while vitamins D and B12 help the body make and utilize red blood cells. Vitamin C can be found in bell peppers, oranges, berries, and lemon juice. Oranges, yogurt, and milk are good sources of vitamin D, while dairy products, soy milk, almond milk, and flax milk contain B12. These foods can help those with multiple myeloma get the necessary nutrients to manage their symptoms.

Worst foods
Unpasteurized drinks: For those with multiple myeloma, unpasteurized drinks can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. These drinks have not been heated to the point of eliminating potentially harmful microorganisms. Examples of such drinks include raw milk, apple cider, and other fruit and vegetable juices.

Raw meat or fish: People with the condition should avoid raw meats, as they can contain bacteria and viruses, such as Salmonella, that can cause food poisoning. Raw fish may also contain parasites that can lead to serious health issues. So, one should also avoid foods like sushi, which contains raw fish. Further, sushi is accompanied by sauces like high-sodium soy sauce, which can exacerbate high blood pressure and other issues associated with multiple myeloma. If one chooses to have raw meat or fish, the items should be stored at a safe temperature, cooked thoroughly, and consumed immediately. Additionally, surfaces that have come into contact with raw foods should be sanitized before use.

Raw sprouts: Raw sprouts have been linked to multiple foodborne illnesses, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Due to their humid growing conditions, sprouts can quickly become contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These bacteria can cause serious illnesses, especially in people with weakened immune as observed with multiple myeloma.

Uncooked eggs: Raw or undercooked eggs contain bacteria like Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning. People with multiple myeloma should avoid undercooked and raw eggs.

When diagnosing the disease, doctors initially recommend tests such as nerve conduction studies, electromyography, or imaging studies to rule out other causes and initiate treatment. Some people undergoing treatment may experience little or no improvement and recurring signs of the disease. This is called relapsed refractory multiple myeloma, where cancer does not respond to the treatment or returns. Here, doctors may recommend other treatment options.

Unusual signs
Here are a few uncommon signs to recognize to get early treatment and manage the condition better.

Fatigue: Here, even after a good night’s rest, one may experience extreme tiredness and exhaustion when affected by multiple myeloma. Fatigue here affects energy levels even with minimal physical activity. It can cause other issues, such as difficulty concentrating and memory problems. One may feel so fatigued that it becomes difficult to carry out daily activities.

Frequent infections: This is brought on by a weakened immune system due to abnormal plasma cells. Here, one may experience frequent infections in the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract, or skin. These infections can become serious if left untreated, causing long-term health complications.

Bruising or bleeding: Here, one may notice bleeding in the gums, nosebleeds, or unusually heavy periods. They may also bruise easily. Unexplained bleeding may indicate that the body is experiencing trouble forming blood clots due to a drop in the levels of platelets or other blood-clotting proteins affected by cancer cells.

Bone pain and fractures: Bone pain and fractures can be a sign of multiple myeloma, as the condition can weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures. Bone pain with this condition is usually observed in the spine, ribs, or other bony areas. In more advanced cases, it may spread to other body parts. Fractures here may typically develop without any trauma or injury.

Numbness, tingling sensation, or weakness: These symptoms can result from myeloma cells damaging the nerves in the peripheral nervous system. One may experience a pins and needles sensation, numbness, weakness in the arms and legs, or even the face or torso.

Previous Read

Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

Next Read

Foods That Help Manage Hyperkalemia Symptoms

Hyperkalemia is a health condition characterized by excessive potassium levels in a person’s bloodstream. Maintaining healthy potassium levels is crucial for optimal health, and one can do this by following a healthy nutritional regime that helps manage hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia is potentially life-threatening, so prompt treatment is necessary to keep its symptoms at bay. Various healthy foods are proven to help reduce potassium levels, and some of these food items are listed below.  Hyperkalemia Hyperkalemia is a medical condition in which the potassium concentration in the blood is too high. The condition can lead to various symptoms, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, tingling sensations, and an irregular heartbeat. The best way to manage hyperkalemia is to make lifestyle changes that help maintain healthy potassium levels in the body. These include reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced meal with an adequate amount of potassium the body requires. Types of foods to manage hyperkalemia A balanced meal plan low in potassium helps manage hyperkalemia symptoms to a great extent. Four different types of foods that help manage and reduce the risk of developing hyperkalemia are listed below. Vegetables Vegetables are an essential part of a balanced meal plan to manage hyperkalemia. Eating low-potassium vegetables can help control the level of potassium in your blood.  Green beans Besides providing fiber, vitamins A and C, folate, and iron, green beans are low in calories and can help control blood sugar levels. Peas They are an excellent source of fiber, protein, and vitamins A and C. Furthermore, one serving of peas includes 50 to 200 mg of potassium, making it ideal for controlling hyperkalemia symptoms. Cabbage It is a cruciferous vegetable rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, B6, and C, folate, and potassium, and it also helps lower cholesterol levels. Cucumber Cucumbers are healthy sources of vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Furthermore, they are low in calories and can help reduce inflammation. Lettuce Lettuce is rich in vitamins A, K, and C, calcium, and potassium and may help reduce inflammation and promote overall health. Peppers They are an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. They are also low in calories and can help control blood sugar levels. Parsley It is an herb with excellent anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a healthy source of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Celery (1 stalk) Celery is a low-calorie vegetable with a high water content that can help keep you hydrated. It also contains vitamins A, C, K, and potassium, making it a good option for hyperkalemia patients when eaten in moderation. Fruits Fruits are an excellent food choice for managing hyperkalemia. The fruits listed below are known for their low potassium content compared to other alternatives. Apples One medium apple or a glass of apple juice is an excellent choice for a delicious snack with a fraction of the potassium. Berries When it comes to managing hyperkalemia, they are especially beneficial. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, or cranberry juice are all excellent fruits for your meal. They are rich in antioxidants and provide a range of anti-inflammatory benefits. Cherry Cherries are packed with potassium but contain several other beneficial nutrients that can help manage hyperkalemia. Additionally, they are rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Pineapple or pineapple Juice Studies have shown that drinking pineapple juice can lower blood potassium levels. It is also a natural diuretic, which can help reduce fluid retention, one of the causes of hyperkalemia. Mandarin oranges They are delicious and nutritious citrus fruits that can help with hyperkalemia. The rich concentration of potassium, magnesium and other minerals helps to balance electrolyte levels and reduce the excessive amounts of potassium in the body. Grapefruit It is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a great fruit to include in your meal plan to manage hyperkalemia. Half a grapefruit can provide up to 5% of your daily potassium needs and help keep your blood potassium levels balanced. Watermelon Watermelon is also rich in other essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, which makes it an overall healthy snack or meal addition. Enjoying a cup of watermelon juice each day can help keep your potassium levels in check and ensure you stay healthy. Plum Eating one whole plum every day can help keep potassium levels in check. Additionally, the antioxidants in plums can help protect against oxidative damage caused by elevated potassium levels. Tangerine The citrus flavonoids and antioxidants in tangerines have also been found to help manage hyperkalemia. One whole tangerine is enough for most hyperkalemia patients, so ensure you don’t overeat it. Peaches They are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. One small peach provides the daily recommended value of potassium, making it an ideal food choice for managing hyperkalemia. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are an important part of any meal plan, providing energy and essential nutrients. Eating carbohydrates can also help to balance electrolyte levels in the body and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Low-potassium carbohydrates include white rice, white bread, white pasta, polenta, and cornmeal grits. Eating low-potassium carbohydrates can help lower potassium levels in the blood. Furthermore, low-potassium carbs can help reduce cravings for unhealthy foods high in potassium. Beverages Coffee Coffee contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation and also help keep you hydrated. Studies indicate that caffeine in coffee induces potassium redistribution into the cells, making it a healthy choice for managing hyperkalemia. Additionally, the caffeine content can boost energy and help reduce fatigue. When choosing coffee, opt for organic varieties, free from preservatives and artificial flavors. Tea It is another low-potassium beverage option that can be beneficial in managing hyperkalemia. It contains polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Herbal tea They are an excellent option for managing hyperkalemia. They contain a variety of herbs that can help reduce inflammation and fatigue and improve digestion. Go for organic types of herbal tea to receive maximum benefits. Sparkling water It is a refreshing alternative to plain water and can be beneficial in managing the condition. Choose natural varieties with no added preservatives or artificial flavors for the best health benefits.

Trending Articles

01

Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
02

What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
03

Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
04

Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

Our Blogs

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

ADHD, short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affects children worldwide, and this also often carries on into their adulthood. Some of the different problems faced by kids suffering from ADHD include sustaining attention for a long time, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. There might be other problems associated with ADHD, like low self-esteem, low grades in school, and difficulty in keeping up with relationships. More often than not, symptoms of ADHD are seen to have decreased with age. However, there are cases wherein ADHD symptoms never subside. Levels of ADHD There are three different levels or stages at which ADHD can affect individuals. They are: Predominantly inattentive ADHD This level of ADHD may be related to missing details very easily and getting distracted often. Also, one may get bored very quickly. One has difficulty in processing new information, and there is also the tendency to not listen properly. One might not be able to follow directions very clearly and also lose things like pencils or papers. It has been observed that girls are more likely to get inattentive ADHD than boys. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD This is mostly associated with symptoms like restlessness and difficulty with sitting still. Kids suffering from hyperactive-impulsive ADHD have a tendency to talk consistently, and it’s less likely that they will engage in quiet activities.
Read More
Understanding skin aging

Understanding skin aging

Changes in the skin are one of the biggest signs that the body is aging. But how the aging of skin takes place depends on a lot of factors such as our diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and the like. For example, if you smoke regularly, it can lead to the production of free radicals, which damage healthy skin cells and cause wrinkles. So, let’s dig a little deeper into skin aging so that you can diagnose it and prevent it for as long as possible. Stages of skin aging As you age, you will start noticing changes in your skin. These changes take place in phases or stages. Learning about these phases can allow you to take better care of your skin and stay away from everything that can prove to be harmful to it. So, these stages of skin aging are: Stage I – Between 25 and 35 years This is the time when your skin will look extremely voluminous to you. But, this is also the time when the early signs of aging will start to appear. Therefore, it is important that you follow a good skincare regime. Some wrinkles can start appearing on the forehead. Lines can also start to appear on the face when you make normal expressions such as laughing, smiling, or frowning.
Read More
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

There are three terms that one can relate to addiction – reward, motivation, and memory. Addiction is when the body craves a behavior or substance in an obsessive pursuit of a reward. The person will have little concern about the consequences of the particular behavior or substance. Things to note in case of addiction Some of the attributes that one can relate with addiction include an inability to stay away from the substance, lack of self-control, an outrageous desire for the substance or behavior, ignorance towards the problems that the behavior might be causing, and a growing tendency to ignore the emotional response. Addictions have been known to interfere with daily life and there are also cases of relapse and remission. The complications of addiction can be physical, emotional, as well as financial. Stages of addiction There are five main stages of addiction. These include: Experimentation Every addiction starts with experimentation and during this stage, one cannot understand that this is the beginning of an addiction. One cannot be sure that this will turn into something serious, and hence no necessary steps are taken at this stage. A simple way to find out how this will turn into addiction is understanding the reason for experimenting and how often a person experiments with new substances.
Read More
Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Incurring debt is really common in this age and era as everything has become extremely expensive, from college education to owing a house. If you ever feel that your debt is too large and you may not be able to pay it in time, then you can seek the help of a debt settlement company. These companies essentially communicate with your creditor to try and lower your debt and the rest of it is typically forgiven. Given below is a list of the top 9 debt settlement companies in the USA. National Debt Relief If you have USD 7,500 or more in debt, then the National Debt Relief can be a great choice for you. It is one of the most prominent debt settlement companies in the country. The initial consultation is offered for free, but you will have to pay 15-25% of the settled debt amount as a fee. Freedom Debt Relief This a dedicated company that offers debt relief services to people who have at minimum USD 7,500 to USD 10,000 in debt. 15-25% of the settle debt amount is charged as fee once a settlement is negotiated, and in return, they offer the possibility of settling the debt within 24-48 months.
Read More
Allergies – Stages and prevention

Allergies – Stages and prevention

The immune system of our bodies is constantly fighting against viruses and bacteria to keep us healthy. However, in certain cases, the immune system may also end up fighting some substances that are not always harmful. When this happens, you experience an allergic reaction. The allergens are the substances that cause the reactions. With a little carefulness, you can prevent the allergies effectively. The allergic development Even though an allergic reaction can vary from person to person, it generally progresses in the same five stages: Stage 1 The allergen enters your body through food, air, or touch, and contact the cells in your body. Stage 2 Your immune system creates immunoglobulin E, which is a type of antibody. Stage 3 This antibody enters your gastrointestinal tract or respiratory tract but does not do anything. Stage 4 The next time when you are exposed to the same allergen, the immunoglobulin E treats it as a harmful substance and reacts with it. Stage 5 24 hours after the reaction, the immune system cells move towards the areas that were affected to release certain chemicals to treat it. How to diagnose allergies Your allergies can be diagnosed by a doctor. Before visiting him or her, you must recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Read More
Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia is a kind of medical condition in which an adequate amount of oxygen fails to reach one’s body’s tissues owing to the deficiency of red blood cells in their body. When one suffers from this condition, their body feels weak and exhausted all the time. Symptoms There are different kinds of anemia and each of them has a cause of its own. It can have short-term or long-term effects and the disease can be mild or severe in nature. If one sees any symptoms suggesting that point toward anemia, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately. The signs vary from person to person and depend on the cause or their origin. Sometimes, the chronic disease causes anemia and the doctor ends up diagnosing the disease but the fact that one is suffering from anemia does not show up in the test. Sometimes, there are mild symptoms and then, with time the symptoms become more prominent indicating that the disease has penetrated one’s body more deeply. Some of the commonly found symptoms include breathing difficulties, fatigue, pale skin, chest pain, headache, dizziness, hands and feet turning cold, irregular heartbeat, and pain in the chest . Types of anemia Iron deficiency anemia This is the most common kind of anemia, which occurs due to iron deficiency.
Read More