Potassium Rich Foods - List of Foods High in Potassium

P - Plantain
O - Orange
T - Tomato
A - Apricot
S - Strawberry
S - Spinach
I - Iceberg Lettuce
U - Ugli fruit*
M - Mango
[*Ugli is a trademark for the Jamaican tangelo.]
Potassium (Kalium, K) is one of the vital minerals that play a major role in several cardiac, renal and neuromuscular functions. It is present in the cells and body fluids as potassium ions (K⁺) and potassium chloride (KCl). 98% of the total potassium content in our body is found intracellularly. The importance of this macronutrient as well as a list of foods high in potassium has been provided below.

Importance of PotassiumPotassium is a mineral salt (electrolyte), that plays an important role in regulating our blood pressure, bone mass, muscle functions as well as heart, kidney, and adrenal functions. Potassium is required in the body for:

• Maintaining the osmotic and acid-base balance of cells
• Activation of certain enzymes
• Building proteins and muscles
• Metabolizing carbohydrates
• Regulating the electrical activity of heart
• Regulating neuromuscular signals to voluntary and involuntary muscles
• Maintaining bone mineral density

Potassium deficiency disrupts the balance between intracellular and extracellular potassium content, and may lead to reduction in the levels of potassium in blood (hypokalemia). This condition is characterized by fatigue, myalgia, joint pain, muscle stiffness and cramps, depression, mood alterations, and slow reflexes. Severe deficiency may lead to cardiac problems, altered renal function, gastric problems as well as liver damage.

Potassium-rich FoodsThere is a variety of fruits and vegetables that have a rich potassium content and can be easily included in the daily diet. Meat and poultry products also serve as good sources for potassium. Given below is a list of foods high in potassium along with their potassium content.

VEGETABLES
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Tomato products, canned, paste, without salt added	1 cup (262)	2657
Beet greens, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (144)	1309
Potato, baked, flesh and skin, without salt	1 potato (202)	1081
Spinach, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (180)	839
Lettuce, iceberg, raw	1 head (539)	760
Sweet potato, cooked, baked in skin, without salt	1 potato (146)	694
Jerusalem-artichokes, raw	1 cup (150)	644
Parsnips, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (156)	573
Pumpkin, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (245)	564
Mushrooms, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (156)	555
Beets, cooked, boiled, drained	1 cup (170)	519
Potatoes, boiled, cooked in skin, flesh, without salt	1 potato (136)	515
Brussels sprouts, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (156)	495
Broccoli, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (156)	457
Cucumber, with peel, raw	1 large (301)	442
Tomatoes, red, ripe, raw, year round average	1 cup (180)	427
Celery, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (150)	426
Corn, sweet, yellow, canned	1 cup (210)	391
Carrots, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (156)	367
Sweet potato, cooked, boiled, without skin	1 potato (156)	359
Peppers, sweet, red, raw	1 cup (149)	314
Kale, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (130)	296
Peppers, sweet, green, raw	1 cup (149)	261
Onions, raw	1 cup (160)	234
Cauliflower, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (124)	176
Cabbage, raw	1 cup (70)	119

BEANS AND LEGUMES
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Soybeans, green, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt	1 cup (180)	970
Lima beans, large, mature seeds, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (188)	945
Soybeans, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (172)	886
Pinto beans, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (171)	746
Lentils, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (198)	731
Kidney beans, red, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (177)	713
Peas, split, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (196)	710
Navy beans, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (182)	708
Black beans, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (172)	611
Chickpeas, mature, cooked, boiled, without salt	1 cup (164)	477

FRUITS
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Plantains, raw	1 medium (179)	893
Papayas, raw	1 papaya (304)	781
Plantains, cooked	1 cup (154)	716
Squash, winter, all varieties, cooked, baked, without salt	1 cup (205)	494
Cantaloupe, raw	1 cup (160)	427
Bananas, raw	1 banana (118)	422
Pears, Asian, raw	1 pear (275)	333
Oranges, raw, all commercial varieties	1 cup (180)	326
Peaches, raw	1 cup (170)	323
Mangoes, raw	1 mango (207)	323
Watermelon, raw	1 wedge (286)	320
Strawberries, raw	1 cup (166)	254
Blackberries, raw	1 cup (144)	233
Ugli fruit (Jamaican tangelo), raw	1 medium (244)	200
Avocados, raw, California	1 oz. (28.35)	144

DRY FRUITS AND NUTS
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Dates, deglet noor	1 cup (178)	1168
Raisins, seedless	1 cup (145)	1086
Nuts, chestnuts, European, roasted	1 cup (143)	847
Apricots, dried, sulfured, uncooked	10 halves (35)	407
Coconut meat, dried (desiccated), sweetened, shredded	1 cup (93)	313
Prunes, uncooked	5 prunes (42)	307
Pistachio nuts, dry roasted, with salt added	1 oz. (28.35)	295
Almonds	1 oz. (28.35)	200

DAIRY PRODUCTS
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Milk, canned, condensed, sweetened	1 cup (306)	1135
Yogurt, plain, skim milk, 13 grams protein per 8 ounce	8 oz. (227)	579
Yogurt, plain, low fat, 12 grams protein per 8 ounce	8 oz. (227)	531
Buttermilk, fluid, cultured, low-fat	1 cup (245)	370
Milk, fluid, 1% or 2 % fat, with added vitamin A	1 cup (244)	366
Yogurt, plain, whole milk, 8 grams protein per 8 ounce	8 oz. (224)	352
Milk, whole, 3.25% fat	1 cup (244)	349
Cheese, ricotta, whole milk	1 cup (246)	258
Cheese, cottage, low-fat, 2% fat	1 cup (226)	217

MEAT PRODUCTS
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Halibut, Atlantic and Pacific, cooked, dry heat	fillet (159)	916
Rockfish, Pacific, mixed species, cooked, dry heat	1 fillet (149)	775
Haddock, cooked, dry heat	1 fillet (150)	599
Salmon, sockeye, cooked, dry heat	fillet (155)	581
Duck, meat only, cooked, roasted	duck (221)	557
Crab, blue, canned	1 cup (135)	505
Tuna, yellowfin, fresh, cooked, dry heat	3 oz. (85)	484
Cod, Pacific, cooked, dry heat	3 oz. (85)	439
Turkey, meat only, cooked, roasted	1 cup (140)	417
Ham, sliced, extra lean	2 slices (56.7)	368
Chicken, broilers or fryers, light meat, meat only, cooked, fried	3 oz. (84)	221

BEVERAGES
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Prune juice, canned	1 cup (256)	707
Carrot juice, canned	1 cup (236)	689
Vanilla thick shake	11 fl. oz. (313)	573
Tomato juice, canned, with salt added	1 cup (243)	556
Orange juice, raw	1 cup (248)	496
Grapefruit juice, white or pink, raw	1 cup (247)	400

OTHERS
Food	Common Measure (Weight in gm)	K Content in mg
Baking powder, low-sodium	1 tsp. (5)	505
Cream of tartar	1 tsp. (3)	495
White chocolate	1 cup (170)	486
Wheat flour, whole-grain	1 cup (120)	486
Rice, white, long-grain, parboiled, enriched, dry	1 cup (185)	346
Baking chocolate, squares	1 square (28.35)	235

Potassium is naturally found in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products. However, in special cases like athletes and people who are engaged in excessive physical activity, it is encouraged to consume electrolyte drinks and potassium supplements to compensate for the electrolytes lost through sweat.

Including a combination of any of the above-mentioned high-potassium foods can help you meet the daily potassium intake requirement of 4.7 gm. The ideal way is to prepare a personal diet plan that includes all the vital nutrients in the right amounts.

Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.

Uric Acid Diet

Uric acid diet is commonly prescribed for the treatment of gout. As we all know, presence of surplus uric acid in blood, triggers gout, a condition that causes inflammation of joints, leading to severe pain. Uric acid that naturally occurs in our body is the result of metabolism of two substances; proteins and purines. In most cases, the condition specifically targets the big toe, but it can also affect the knees, wrists and hands. In order to combat gout, it is essential to considerably minimize protein and purine intake, which is nothing but diet low in uric acid.

Foods to Avoid

Uric acid diet, better known as gout treatment diet involves exclusion of certain foods, that are known to worsen the gout problem. Staying away from such foods, can reduce joint inflammation and help get rid of gout. Avoiding foods that raise uric acid levels in blood, is a simple way to ease pain naturally. Foods that should be avoided are explained below:

Alcohol
Alcohol, if consumed even in small quantities, can contribute to worsening of gout. This is because analysis of any alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, etc.), has shown that these drinks contain high levels of purine, thus increasing uric acid content in the body. So a person drinking alcohol, during this joint inflammation condition is indirectly 'hitting an ax on his own leg', as it can aggravate the joint pain.

Foods Containing Refined Carbohydrates
Foods made from white flour such as white bread, muffins, biscuits, sweet bread and snacks like potato chips are all high in refined carbohydrates and more importantly these processed foodstuffs have high purine content.

Protein Rich Foods
High protein foods being rich in purines, should not be included in uric acid diet. Poultry products that include chicken are some of the foods that come under the list of protein rich foods.

Red meat and even organ meats (brain, kidneys and liver) are often regarded as the worst enemy of people suffering from gout. The reason is simple: The purine content in these foods is very high and so their consumption is bound to aggravate gout symptoms. So, make sure you are at arm's length from lamb, pork and beef.

Fish touted as a healthy food, however has no place in this diet. Any type of fish be it herring, sardines, mackerel, halibut, cod, salmon or tuna are laden with purines. If you thought that except fish, gout sufferers can include other types of seafood in the diet, then you are wrong. Popular sea foods such as scallops, lobster and shrimp should also be avoided as they contain an excessive amount of purines.

Vegetables
Certain vegetables have high levels of purines and chief amongst them are mushrooms, green peas and lentils. So, people with gout arthritis need to abstain from eating these vegetables.

Foods High in Sugar
People who think that drinking soft drinks is one of the ways of getting rid of uric acid through urine, are completely wrong. This is because soft drinks contain high amounts of sugar, and recent studies suggest that people consuming sweetened carbonated soft drinks have a very high probability of suffering from gout attacks. Sweetened fruit juice, high sugary foods such as cakes, donuts, cookies and pastries, as well as fructose rich fruits (oranges) can worsen the pre-existing joint pain.

Foods to Eat

Foods that reduce uric acid levels in the body, need to be consumed on a daily basis. Indulging in low purine foods, will help in controlling this condition. These foods form an integral part of low uric acid diet.

High Potassium Foods
A diet high in potassium is another effective way to ease discomfort associated with gout. Studies show that sufficient potassium intake can boost uric acid excretion. One of the best sources of potassium are bananas and tomatoes. Tomatoes increases the pH value of blood, thereby making it (blood) more alkaline. This in turn encourages the elimination of uric acid.

Whole Grain Foods
Whole grain foods are high in complex carbohydrates that can contribute immensely in reducing uric acid levels from the body. Talking about whole grain products and one simply cannot forget to mention about whole wheat bread, brown rice and oatmeal. Include these foodstuffs in the diet to control gout symptoms effectively.

Dairy Products
Gout sufferers should be very careful in choosing dairy products. Low fat cheese and yogurt as well as skimmed milk are some dairy products that can help combat gout.

Cherries
Cherries contain high amounts of vitamin C and potassium, which help in reducing uric acid levels in the body. Anthocyanins, a natural flavonoid, is found in high quantities in cherries which bear anti-inflammatory properties and thus help in reducing pain and swelling. Drinking cherry juice can also help in relieving pain. Taking vitamin C supplements (after consulting a doctor) may also help to reduce gout pain.

Water
To encourage elimination of uric acid, drinking plenty of water is crucial. Increasing water intake will help the body to flush off excess uric acid through urine. This is one of the best home remedies that can work wonders to decrease gout symptoms.

Uric Acid Diet Guidelines

On the whole, one should focus more on eating vegetables and fruits, rather than meat. Have meat products sparingly and stay away from salted nuts, junk and fried food. In fact, following a vegetarian diet can go a long way in managing gout successfully. Although beverages like coffee and tea have low purine levels, they are highly acidic. Gout sufferers are advised to ditch beverages and foodstuffs that raise blood acidity.

Along with the recommended diet, one should ensure that body weight does not increase. Losing excess pounds and maintaining a healthy weight is necessary to manage gout pain. Studies show that being overweight increases joint related problems. Exercise, such as walking, can help to improve flexibility in joints as well as reduce weight.

Anxiety Medication that Does Not Cause Weight Gain

Did You Know?

By visualizing happy thoughts, our brain gets flooded with positive signals, thereby making us feel better. So, focus on positive thinking to lead a healthier life.
Becoming anxious beyond normal limits for no obvious reasons, is an anxiety disorder. It is estimated that around 40 million people residing in the United States suffer from anxiety disorders in a year. An effective form of treatment, recommended by doctors, involves use of anxiety medications. These medications relieve stress and give a feeling of relaxation. There are few side effects associated with the intake of anxiety medications, and one of them is weight gain. However, not all drugs prescribed for anxiety disorders cause significant weight gain. Some of them are given below:

Venlafaxine (Effexor)
This is an antidepressant that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorder. Effexor tries to restore chemical balances in the brain, that helps to relieve anxiety disorders. With Effexor, weight gain is a rarity and the percentage of people who have reported increase in weight is very less (about 1%). On the contrary, the most common side effect associated with Effexor is weight loss. In case weight gain is observed with Effexor, a simple way to combat this infrequent problem is to reduce calorie intake by having a fiber rich diet. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and prefer lean meat and fish instead of saturated fats.

Paroxetine (Paxil)
Paxil usually does not cause weight gain, and has been approved to treat different types of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder. Weight gain with Paroxetine is very uncommon and this has been proven through clinical studies. Extensive research was done before approving this medicine for anxiety. In a study conducted by experts, more than thousand people suffering from this mental illness were given Paxil. It was found that only 2-3% people noticed weight gain.

Buspirone (BuSpar)
Before any medicine is legalized for any illness, clinical trials are conducted for possible side effects. It was observed that weight gain as a side effect was noticed in less than 1 percent of patients. Thus, one can definitely say that weight gain due to BuSpar is a rare phenomenon.

Clonazepam (Klonopin)
This is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs referred to as benzodiazepines. Commonly recommended for people with panic disorder problems, weight change is not a bothersome side effect. Again, studies reveal the same statistics, weight gain is reported in approximately 1 in 1000 people.

Ativan (Lorazepam)
Although there may be a few side effects associated with the use of Ativan, surprisingly, research did not detect any weight gain among people who were taking this medicine. So, it is very unlikely that Ativan prescribed for anxiety disorders will lead to weight gain. However, this anxiety medication provides short-term relief.

Antidepressants
Antidepressants are often used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). There are different types of antidepressants but the one that have shown to be effective to improve GAD symptoms without causing any side effects like weight gain are selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs affect the neurochemical serotonin that is involved in regulating the mood. This chemical found in the brain assists neurons to communicate with each other. Deficiency of serotonin has been associated with anxiety disorders, panic attacks and low self-esteem. SSRIs boost mood by increasing serotonin level in the brain. This is achieved by hindering the reabsorption (re-uptake) of serotonin in the brain. Some of the SSRIs that have proved beneficial in uplifting mood without adding pounds to your existing weight are given below:

• Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
• Citalopram (Cipramil)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Anxiety drugs that do not cause significant weight gain are Escitalopram (Lexapro) and Sertraline (Zoloft). Although these medications may provide considerable relief from the distressing anxiety symptoms, other side effects such as nausea and weakness have been experienced by patients. So it would be wise to consult a doctor before using these anxiety drugs.

A point to note here is that simply taking the antianxiety drugs won't help to cure your mental illness, unless you change your thought process. Remember, our body reacts to the way we think. Therefore, try to be in a positive frame of mind and steer clear of thoughts that are a source of stress and anxiety. Meditate, listen to popular music, play an instrument like guitar or do anything that keeps you away from anxious feelings. In fact, once you tune your mind to think positively, you won't require any medications and the question of weight gain would not arise.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

Stomach Ulcer Remedies

Stomach ulcers are also known as gastric ulcers, which are open sores that develop in the mucosal lining of the stomach. Many times, they are also referred as peptic ulcers, though most of the peptic ulcers generally occur in the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. Generally, stomach and duodenum ulcers are benign; only a few of them are malignant or cancerous.

Causes and Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers
They are the result of the damage caused by the hydrochloric acid, (a part of the digestive juice) to the lining of the stomach. Earlier, spicy foods and stress were thought to be accountable for causing them. But later on, it was discovered that most of the ulcers are caused not by spicy foods, but by bacterial infection. The bacterium responsible for causing ulcers of the stomach is known as Helicobacter pylori. Other important causes of gastric ulcers are, long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Even stress is thought to play an important role in their development.

A burning sensation or pain in the upper abdomen or below the breastbone is the most common symptom. The pain is usually observed to occur immediately after eating, while some individuals can experience it a few hours after having a meal. Other symptoms include, loss of appetite, vomiting, black stool, weight loss, blood in the stool and anemia.

Stomach Ulcer Cure
The conventional treatment involves the use of antacids, acid blockers or H2 antagonists, proton pump inhibitors and cytoprotective agents. If ulcers are found to have caused by H. pylori bacteria, then antibiotics are recommended. However, in addition to these conventional medications, several natural remedies have shown their efficacy in treating the condition.

• Banana can neutralize acidity of the gastric juice. At the same time, it protects the stomach lining and reduces inflammation and irritation.
• Fresh vegetable juice like, carrot and cabbage juice can also provide significant relief in stomach ulcers. You can take cabbage juice either alone or mixed with carrot juice. Similarly, carrot juice can also be mixed with spinach or beet juice. Vegetable juices can help to strengthen the stomach lining and heal sores.
• Fenugreek, if moistened with water, becomes mucilaginous to provide a protective coating to the stomach lining and assists in healing the ulcers. Fenugreek seeds or leaves are brewed with tea to take as a remedy.
• Lime contains citric acid and mineral salts, that not only helps in digestion, but to heal the ulcers as well. It can be used in salads or taken as lime juice.
• Leaves of wood apple is another effective natural remedy and relieve the associated pain and discomfort. The leaves should be soaked in water and left overnight. In the morning, the water should be strained and then taken.
• Raw honey, especially manuka honey can heal the ulcers, strengthen the stomach lining and destroy the bacteria that cause infection.
• Milk, especially cold milk is known to neutralize stomach acids and hence, can be taken to alleviate the symptoms of gastric ulcers. Taking raw goat's milk can prove even more beneficial, as it can heal the ulcers.

Stomach or gastric ulcers, if left untreated, can give rise to some major complications, like gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation of the gastrointestinal wall, scarring of the tissues and pyloric stenosis. Therefore, along with taking these remedies, it is essential to seek medical attention. Also important is to avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol intake, as well as spicy and salty foods. In addition to these, people having stomach or peptic ulcers should drink plenty of water and eat several small meals daily.

Peptic Ulcer Pain

A peptic ulcer is an ulcer or open sore that develops in the lining of the intestinal tract. More often, peptic ulcers develop in the stomach, duodenum and esophagus. When such ulcers develop in the stomach, they are called gastric or stomach ulcers. An ulcer of the duodenum on the other hand, is known as duodenal ulcer, while an ulcer of the esophagus is called esophageal ulcer. Peptic ulcer, irrespective of its location can produce considerable pain. It usually causes abdominal pain and a burning sensation and discomfort in the upper part of the abdomen.

Pain Due to Peptic Ulcer

Peptic ulcers usually develop due to the infection caused by the bacteria, known as Helicobacter pylori. Infection of the intestinal tract caused by this bacteria is the most common cause of this ulcer in a large number of individuals. However sometimes, these ulcers can also be caused by factors like, prolonged and excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive consumption of alcohol, injury or trauma to the gastric mucosal lining, severe burns and major surgery. Rarely, such ulcers can associated with stomach cancer. The most common symptom associated with this ulcer is abdominal pain. The location of such a pain can be anywhere from the navel up to the breastbone. Sometimes, the pain can radiate to other parts of the body such as, the chest or the back. So, a few individuals can also get this pain back along with the usual abdominal pain.

The pain is usually produced when the ulcer is irritated by the stomach acid. Therefore, the pain caused this ulcer is usually experienced within two-three hours after having meal. If the ulcer is located in the duodenum, then the pain can reduce after consuming food. But if the ulcer is located in the stomach, then consumption of food can worsen the pain. Spicy, highly acidic and fatty foods are often found to exacerbate the pain caused by this ulcer. Even caffeine and alcohol can irritate the ulcer and cause pain. Apart from pain, it can be accompanied by other symptoms like, bloating, abdominal fullness, nausea and vomiting, vomiting of blood and dark, tarry stool.

How to Get Relief From Pain Caused by Peptic Ulcer?

The pain caused by peptic ulcer can be reduced to an extent by controlling the production of stomach acid. Regulating the production of stomach acid is also very important to ensure fast healing of the ulcers. Therefore, physicians usually recommend appropriate medications to reduce the amount of acids in stomach. Such medications include, antacids, acid blockers or H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Cytoprotective agents are sometimes used, in order to coat the lining of the stomach and the intestine to promote fast healing of the ulcers. Along with these, antibiotics are also prescribed to kill the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori.

Along with medications, certain foods can be used for pain relief, as they can neutralize or reduce the stomach acids. One such food is Indian gooseberry, which can not only absorb the excess stomach acid, but can also boost the immune system and clear the stomach by acting as a laxative. Some other foods that can help to reduce the pain caused by peptic ulcer and accelerate the healing process are, almond milk, papaya, milk, carrot and cabbage juice, Aloe Vera juice, green tea, chamomile tea, fenugreek tea and yogurt.

People with peptic ulcer can get considerable relief by making a few dietary changes. They should maintain a fixed schedule of meal times, and eat small, frequent meals instead of three large meals. At the same time, they need to avoid spicy and highly acidic foods, citrus, tomato products, sour and hot foods. They should also refrain from lying down immediately after eating meals. All such simple dietary and lifestyle changes can provide significant relief in pain. However, along with reducing the pain, it is also important to seek medical attention for stomach ulcer cure. So, consult a physician as soon as possible.

Ulcer Symptoms and Treatment

Usually, the term 'ulcers' refers to peptic ulcers - sores or lesions which won't heal. These sores may have their origin on the inside lining of the stomach, upper small intestine or esophagus. And depending on the location they affect, they are attributed as duodenal ulcers, stomach ulcers and esophageal ulcers. Gastric ulcers are peptic ulcers which have their formation in the stomach and so, they may be used interchangeably with stomach ulcers.

Symptoms
If we talk about the symptoms, they do not differ much when it comes to the different types of ulcers. Meaning, a person suffering from a case of duodenal ulcer may experience the same symptoms which would appear in case of another person who has been diagnosed with a stomach ulcer (gastric ulcer). So, the common symptoms which occur include a burning or a gnawing pain that may be felt anywhere from the area of the navel up to the breastbone. The pain somehow becomes severe and more debilitating to the affected area of the body, and usually lasts from a few minutes to several hours. It is common to find patients to complain about the worsening of the pain when they haven't eaten anything. The pain usually calms down by eating certain foods or taking acid-reducing medication. Another symptom to take a note of is the disappearance of the pain before it strikes back for a few days or weeks. These were the common ulcer symptoms which are experienced by quite a lot of people. Apart from these, there are a few more symptoms, which although rare, are concernedly severe. These may include vomiting of blood, dark stools or tarry stools, nausea, abnormal weight loss and unusual changes in appetite.

Treatment
The corkscrew-shaped bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has been found to be the culprit for the development of the ulcer, in most cases. So, the treatment involves getting rid of this bacteria and reduce the acid level in the stomach to manage the pain and encourage recuperation. This is the reason why the treatment involves the use of more than one kind of medication. For taking care of the bacteria, antibiotics are used for about two weeks, depending on the type and number of the bacteria. Then comes the use of acid blocker drugs. These drugs hamper the release of hydrochloric acid in the digestive track thus, relieving the pain and hastening the recovery. Patients may be prescribed to take antacids in conjunction with acid blockers. These medicines, although do not work to reduce the secretion of acid, they help in neutralizing the existing acid and provide pain relief. The other class of drugs used for treating ulcers are known as proton pump inhibitors. There are tiny pumps in the acid-secreting cells and these drugs help to shut down these pumps. In this way, they cut short the production of acid in the stomach. Then comes what are known as cytoprotective agents. These are for forming a protective barrier for the tissues that line your stomach and small intestine, so as to prevent any further complications.

Avoiding smoking and alcohol greatly helps in the healing of ulcers. To add to this, abstaining from using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and limiting spicy and fatty foods also aids in the effectiveness of the treatment, and recovery.

How to Stop Vomiting

Vomiting may be caused by different reasons that include unhealthy eating habits, indigestion, medicinal side effects, motion sickness, pregnancy, consumption of alcohol, etc. Recurrent vomiting is certainly harsh on the body, as it can completely dehydrate a person, make him/her weak, and cause pain in the abdomen and stomach.

In young children, vomiting may be a result of an infection, overfeeding, indigestion, lactose intolerance or cough. These reasons can also cause adults to throw up, along with other causes like ulcers, bulimia, poisoning, binge eating, alcohol abuse, bacterial infections like salmonella, and even pregnancy.

Vomiting, in several instances, is inevitable - in some, it is the body's natural response to food poisoning or gastritis, when the offending contents consumed are forcefully ejected through the mouth and even the nose. An isolated incident of vomiting may not be considered a very serious condition, but recurring episodes indicate the presence of a grave illness that cannot be ignored.

It is important to note that excessive vomiting can lead to severe dehydration. It may also cause the esophagus to rupture, a serious emergency that takes the patient straight into surgery. Frequent bouts of vomiting in pregnant women may be caused by a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, where the woman has fluid and mineral imbalances that can prove fatal for her or the unborn child.

Tips to Control Vomiting
If you are continuously feeling nauseous, then you should sit or stand at one place, and avoid moving. Movement and exertion can worsen the feeling of nausea and cause vomiting.

In between bouts of vomiting, it is important that you avoid any kind of solid food as you will not be able to digest it anyway. Instead, you should sip lukewarm water from time to time. You may also try to have an energy drink, if it suits you.

An effective home remedy is to sip on a mixture of a teaspoon each of mint juice, ginger juice, lemon juice and honey.

As far as medicine is concerned, ginger tablets may help. Doctors will prescribe medication to patients suffering from chronic vomiting.

Preventive Measures
Control Motion Sickness
Several people suffer from motion sickness, a primary symptom of which is vomiting. If a person suffers from motion sickness, he/she needs to take appropriate measures while traveling. These include taking medication to control nausea or avoiding solid food until the urge to vomit subsides. Being hydrated is also necessary.

Deal With Morning Sickness
Pregnant women experiencing morning sickness, are advised to refrain from getting out of bed as soon as they wake up, as this can trigger a nauseous feeling. They should ideally lie in bed for sometime and allow the urge to pass over. Eating a couple of wheat crackers before getting out of bed can prove helpful to get over nausea.

Go Easy on the Stomach
Completely refrain from overeating, and follow a fixed time schedule for all meals. Always consume food that is easy to digest, at least until you get back to normal. Eat slowly and ensure that your food is chewed properly.

Identify the Triggers
The best and the simplest method to control the occurrence of vomiting is to identify the trigger and stay away from it. Strictly stay away from everything that makes you nauseous, be it your favorite snack, or even your favorite perfume.

Always be Hydrated
It is necessary to drink a minimum of eight glasses of water everyday to avoid dehydration. Consuming fruit juices is a good idea, but avoid fruits that are too acidic in nature, for instance, grapefruit or orange.

Help Digestion
Do not lie down immediately after a meal. Sit upright, and allow your meal to be digested. If possible, take a short walk after every meal.

The tips mentioned here are sure to prove quite useful in preventing, controlling, and minimizing the effects of vomiting. However, if the vomiting bouts persist for more than a day in adults, and for more than half a day in children, it is a cause for worry. If it is accompanied by severe dehydration, sunken eyes, rapid heartbeat and high fever, the person should be taken to a doctor immediately.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to substitute the advice of a medical expert.

Hyperactive Children

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a kind of neurological disorder which leads to behavioral problems in children. Hyperactivity in children and fidgeting, are the main symptoms of ADHD. Affected brain structure is one of the main causes of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD in children. Early diagnosis of ADHD helps calm down the hyperactive children. Early diagnosis and correct ADHD treatment help prevent the situation from worsening. Otherwise hyperactivity in young age and adulthood is quite difficult to control. Parents can understand from a child's behavior whether he suffers from ADHD or not. Let us take a look at causes of ADHD first.

What Makes Children Hyperactive

Overactive children are not necessarily victims of ADHD. In fact, all children act like children with ADHD at times, especially when they are in a state of uncontrolled excitement. Anxiety, excessive emotions or nervousness make them behave like ADHD children. Sometimes, parents are responsible for hyperactivity in children. The difference between normal children and hyperactive children (with ADHD) is that symptoms of ADHD (or hyperactivity) are noticed for a longer period of time and not for a short while, in those children who are suffering from a neurological disorder. In case of children with ADHD, symptoms are seen in various different situations.

Some biological changes may cause ADHD. Genetic factors such as parents having hypertension or psychiatric disturbance, a close relative having ADHD (family history), a change in brain structure, etc. can cause ADHD in children. Neurotransmitters or chemicals in brain like dopamine are held responsible for hyperactivity in children. Improper development of brain or smaller brain is seen in children with ADHD. Excessive consumption of alcohol, drugs; excessive smoking during pregnancy can affect the development of the brain of the fetus and can thus result in having a child with ADHD. If a woman gets exposed to any kind of chemical poison (for example, polychlorinated biphenyls used in pesticide industry) during pregnancy, then she might give birth to a child with affected brain function.

Children are sometimes exposed to environmental poisons, for example, lead poisoning can affect the function of the brain significantly. Excessive exposure to fluorescent lights, food poisoning, traumatic brain injury can lead to ADHD symptoms in children. You might be surprised to know that artificial food colors and eating too much of sugar can shoot up the hyperactive behavior in children. A diet that does not contain sufficient nutrients, watching television for a longer period, lack of love and security may result in hyperactivity. Some parents punish their children severely for tiny reasons. Such children are likely to show ADHD symptoms. Here is a list of ADHD symptoms in children.

ADHD Symptoms in Children

• Fidgeting, squirming
• Lack of attentiveness or limited attention span
• Non-stop talking
• Cannot sit still in one place, moving constantly.
• Cannot follow the given instructions, cannot concentrate
• Get bored with any given game within a few minutes
• Cannot study properly, cannot complete class-work and home-work
• Cannot handle or finish any given task properly
• Cannot play quietly
• Get distracted easily
• Does not listen to stories
• Always fighting with other children
• Cannot eat properly
• Act without thinking
• Cannot pay attentions to details
• Insensitive or fail to react like normal children; when they are complimented or punished

How to Treat ADHD

Parents who find their child's behavior abnormal, should consult a doctor immediately. If parents notice some of the above mentioned symptoms in their children, then they should take a ADHD test for children. Only a psychotherapist can evaluate the condition of the child perfectly. Untreated ADHD can result in severe complications, later in adulthood. ADHD medications prescribed by doctors help reduce the symptoms. Teachers should also cooperate parents. They should be aware of special needs of these children. Parents and teachers should spend maximum time with these children. Parents and teachers need to follow behavior modification techniques for ADHD.

Psychotherapist may recommend herbal remedies for ADHD because side effects of these remedies are negligible. Doctors may suggest dietary alterations. Hyperactive children need a specially designed diet. Nutrients that help improve the function of the brain should be invariably present in the diet food. ADHD diet for children is a balanced diet which provides essential vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, etc., in sufficient quantities. Avoiding food allergens is also crucial for them. Parents, with the help of doctors, can teach the child how to relax. Let the child learn meditation, yoga, deep breathing techniques; for that, parents should have patience.

Though it is difficult to cure ADHD, it is possible to lower the symptoms of ADHD. Love, affection, a little bit of extra attention, prompt medication and healthy diet help calm down restless children.

Gout Diet Menu

Did You Know?

According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey carried out during the year 2007 - 2008, 8.3 million Americans were reported to have suffered from gout at least once; out of which 6.1 million were men and 2.2 million were women.
Gout is a form of arthritis which is caused due to a condition called hyperuricemia. In hyperuricemia, a person has high levels of uric acid in his bloodstream. Uric acid is nothing but a chemical produced by the body after the purine in the body is broken down. Thus, it is normal for the body to produce uric acid.

But what happens in some cases is that the body starts producing more uric acid than usual. This acid then starts forming crystals which deposit around the joints. This causes acute joint inflammation. Although gout mostly affects the joint of the big toe, it can also affect other joints like feet, ankles, hands, elbows, wrists and knees. Men are known to be more susceptible to gout as compared to women.

Purine is found in huge quantities in foods like meat, seafood and alcohol. Consuming purine can further worsen an existing gout condition. Therefore, patients are required to switch to a diet that includes low-purine foods. Here are a few sample menus to help you figure out what you can eat when suffering from gout.

Gout Diet Plans
Plan 1

Breakfast

• 2 eggs (any style) with 2 slices of whole wheat bread
• A glass of low-fat milk/cocoa/coffee

Mid-morning

• 2 slices of cornbread
• A glass of orange juice

Lunch

• Green salad
• 1 cup cooked beans/lentils/peas
• 1 cup whole-wheat macaroni

Mid-afternoon

• 2 cups popcorn
• A banana

Dinner

• A vegetable salad made with carrots, broccoli and cauliflower
• 2 - 3 oz small portion lean meat with basmati rice

Plan 2

Breakfast

• Whole-wheat toast with trans-fat-free margarine
• A cup of tea/coffee

Mid-morning

• 2-3 pieces of cream crackers
• A glass of strawberry juice

Lunch

• Green salad
• Vegetable soup
• 1 sandwich made up of whole-wheat bread, olive oil-based spread, a slice of lean meat, lettuce and tomato slices
• A pear

Mid-afternoon

• 1 whole-wheat muffin with fresh dark berries

Dinner

• Vegetable salad with low-fat dressing
• 1 cup steamed vegetables
• 2 to 3 ounces of salmon

Plan 3

Breakfast

• A bowl of oatmeal cereal topped with fresh fruit
• 1 glass low-fat milk
• 2 slices of whole-wheat bread with peanut butter spread

Mid-morning

• A handful of mixed nuts and a glass of lime juice

Lunch

• 1 cup tomato soup
• 1 cup boiled pulses
• 1 serving plain rice or 1 sandwich

Mid-afternoon

• A cup of coffee/cocoa with tortilla chips

Dinner

• Vegetable salad made with carrots, cauliflower and celery
• 2 medium-sized potatoes/sweet potatoes (baked or boiled)
• 1 serving whole-wheat pasta

Recipes
Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients

• 8 tomatoes
• 5 basil leaves, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 pinch red pepper powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Procedure

• Boil the tomatoes in a large pot.
• Drain the water and cool the tomatoes. Peel off the skin.
• Cut the tomatoes and remove their seeds. Put them in a blender and make a pulp. Put the blender aside for further use.
• Take a saucepan. Stir fry the chopped onion in olive oil for about 4 - 5 minutes until it is golden brown in color. Add the crushed garlic and cook for another minute.
• Now add the tomato pulp in the pan.
• Cook on a medium flame for 20 minutes.
• Put the mixture back into the blender and make a smooth puree.
• Put the puree in the saucepan.
• Add the chopped basil leaves, milk and red pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Parmesan Cheese Noodles

Ingredients

• onion, grated
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sour cream
• 6 oz. egg noodles, cooked
• 3 tbsp. Italian parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
• tsp. garlic powder

Procedure

• Preheat the oven to 350 F
• Mix the cottage cheese, sour cream and onion in a bowl.
• Put the Worcestershire sauce, add salt and pepper to taste.
• Place the mixture in a casserole. Add noodles.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
• Bake for 45 minutes. Serve hot.

Baked Chicken Breast

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breast halves, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• cup low-fat yogurt
• cup basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tsp. cornstarch

Procedure

• Preheat oven to 400 F.
• Put the chicken breast halves in a baking dish.
• Mix the basil, yogurt and cornstarch, and spread it over the chicken.
• Add the bread crumbs with the Parmesan cheese.
• Sprinkle this mixture on the chicken.
• Bake for 45 minutes. Serve hot.

USEFUL TIPS
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. It helps to flush out the uric acid crystals from the body.
Consuming berries like blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, bilberries, cranberries, elderberries lower the uric acid level in the blood due to their high cyanidin content. Try consuming a few berries at least once a day.
Consuming olive oil, nuts and oily fish also helps in reducing inflammation.
Incorporate healthy carbs like fruits, veggies, legumes and whole-grains in your diet.
Obesity has always been associated with the complication of gout. Therefore, try maintaining a healthy body weight.
Consumption of alcohol interferes with the elimination of uric acid. Thus, alcohol should be completely avoided.
Consumption of meat increases the risk of gout attacks. Therefore, foods like red meat, organ meat, herring, anchovies, mackerel, fatty fish; which are high in purine should be completely avoided. Substitute it with lean, skinless meat (limited up to 6 ounces a day).
Disclaimer: The above Buzzle article is solely for informative purposes and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject. Always consult a dietitian/nutritionist before following any diet plan.