Diet for People with Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis which can turn out to be rather painful. A lot of extensive research has concluded that the reason for the occurrence of gout is most often, the person's diet. What happens is, our body produces purines, which are broken down and result in the production of uric acid within our body. However, our internal production of purine is not the only supply of them in our body. We also intake purines by way of the various foods that we eat. The more the purine, the more the uric acid is produced to break them down. Sometimes, the levels of uric acid may increase drastically. When this happens, the uric acid assumes a crystallized form and begins to get deposited at the joints in the body. This deposition of uric acid can turn out to be really painful and cause a lot of discomfort. And because the diet plays a very important role in the production of gout, it is only natural to make modifications in the diet in order to control the intake of such foods. This Buzzle article will give help you with some of the food that can be eaten and avoided by people with gout.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.

Foods to EatThere are certain foods that help a person suffering from gout to control the intake of the purines. These foods are well tolerated by the body and do not increase the production of uric acid to a great extent.

• Complex Carbohydrates: Foods that contain high levels of complex carbohydrates, like rice, potatoes, cereals, cereal products, etc. are healthy options that people suffering from gout can include in their diet.
• Low-Fat: Foods that have a low quantity of fat in them are also favorable for people with gout. They help to reduce the risk of the occurrence of gout. You can eat low-fat dairy products and drink low-fat skim milk.
• Plant Proteins: For a person suffering from gout, the intake of proteins in the form of plants, rather than animal meat is advised. Hence, the consumption of beans, peas, legumes, mushrooms, etc. is encouraged. In addition to this, the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables is always a plus point.
• Fluids: Fluids are always a necessary and often ignored constituent of any person's diet. If you suffer from gout, make it a point to consume a lot of fluids in the form of juices, etc. Also, make sure you drink more than enough water on a daily basis. Fluids help greatly in removing the uric acid from the body.

Foods to AvoidThere are also some foods that cause gout and some which can worsen the condition. So, it's better that they're avoided or at least their consumption is reduced. Here are some of them.

• Animal Protein: It has been observed that the level of uric acid in the body increases to a great extent due to the consumption of animal meats, especially organ meat. Hence it is better to avoid organ meat like liver, brain, kidney, meat extracts etc. Also, reducing the intake of poultry and other kinds of red meat will help in the reduction of the uric acid. If you cannot completely exclude them from your diet, then consume them after boiling or steaming them. Avoid frying them, as gout conditions can worsen with fried foods.
• Alcohol: The consumption of excess alcohol has also been known to increase the occurrence and intensify the symptoms of gout. Hence, avoiding alcohol is the best option.
• Fish: Some fish and seafood are also known to alleviate the discomfort caused by gout. Fish like mackerel, herring, sardines, tuna, etc. are ones you should avoid. Also, other seafood like shrimp, lobster, oysters, scallops, calamari, caviar, etc. are best avoided.
• Simple Carbohydrates: For a person suffering from gout, the intake of simple carbohydrates, i.e., in the form of sugar and sweets should be reduced or entirely avoided. So, stay away from excess sugar.
• Foods with High Fructose: As far as possible, avoid foods that contain high levels of fructose (sweetened corn syrup). These include artificially sweetened juices and soft drinks

That was just an overview of foods that should be included and the ones that should be avoided in a diet for people with gout. Remember to consult your physician before going on any kind of diet. Eat healthy and stay healthy.

Superfoods for Flat Abs

Belly fat is the toughest to lose. It is the longest battle in the whole fat loss war. However, the mission is definitely a possible one, if one makes a sincere effort. Besides exercise, the food you eat also plays an important role in determining your weight. Thus, combining the right exercise regimen with healthy food is the key to a healthy body. To get those washboard flat abs you need to adhere to some superfoods for flat abs, that help in burning fat around the tummy area. Your body burns calories while digesting the food. However, it burns more calories while digesting certain kind of food.

Superfoods for fat loss are the ones we avoid eating as they are not very tasty. However, if cooked with a dash of spice, these foods can be the most delectable items on your table. So, take a little interest in knowing what you eat, how to cook it, and how to eat it to keep your diet junk food free.

Superfoods for Abs	Nutritional Value	Health Benefits
Whole Grains	Whole grains are rich in proteins, iron, fiber and minerals. They are high in nutrition and less in fats. This is what makes them a popular food for weight loss amongst fitness freaks.	It is no secret that whole grains are excellent fat burners. Breads and cereals are easily available sources of whole grains, which keep one energized throughout the day. Starting your day with whole grain breakfast is an excellent way boosting metabolism for the rest of the day.
Flax Seeds	Flax seeds are high in fiber, vitamin B, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and phytochemicals which include many antioxidants.	The might of these tiny seeds is much more than we assume. Dietary intake of flax seeds helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels. This in turn saves up the energy and makes you feel full for a longer duration.
Nuts	Go nuts about nuts, as they are a rich source of vitamin E, fiber, copper, magnesium and protein.	Eating nuts makes you feel full in a shorter time for a longer time. This prevents you from eating food which is high in calories. However, steer clear from salted or fried nuts as they can increase your blood pressure.
Eggs	Eggs are a rich source of vitamin B12 and lean protein, both of which are essential while trying to lose weight.	This cheap food item is recommended while losing weight, so that your body gets adequate energy and proteins which are lost while exercising. Avoid eating the yolk if you have cholesterol problems.
Low Fat Yogurt	Your body requires a dosage of calcium on regular basis if you follow a strict exercise routine. Low fat yogurt which is rich in potassium, protein and calcium is the perfect food item to satiate the hunger in between the meals.	Have yogurt in plain form just as it is. You can add a few berries if you want. However, prevent adding sugar or artificial sweeteners to yogurt before eating or else it would defeat the purpose entirely.
Broccoli	Broccoli is a rich source of vitamin C, antioxidants and iron. Additionally, it also contains indole-3 carbinol which is an anti-cancerous agent.	Green vegetables, especially broccoli is a must have if you want to have a flat stomach. Making it a part of your meals will help you burn the stubborn unwanted fat in the stomach region.
Berries	Berries are fruits which are excellent for burning fats naturally. Rich in antioxidants, they make your skin look younger and boost your metabolism.	Beautiful berries are typical summer fruits, which no one can say no to. So, go ahead and gorge on berries as much as you want.
Salmon	Once again, salmon is a rich source of lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. It provides the much-needed fish oils to the body which prevent belly fat causing stress chemicals.	Try grilling the meat instead of frying it to keep it fat free. Frying the fish will add to the existing oils making it unfit for diet.
Oatmeal	Oatmeal is rich in fiber which flushes out the toxins and regulates the bowel movements. This in turns brings the metabolism to a normal rate and accelerates fat loss.	A bowl of oats and skimmed milk is good enough to make an energetic start to the rest of the day. It helps in lowering cholesterol levels, fights obesity, and most importantly burns belly fat.
Spinach	Spinach contains high amounts of minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients. High in fiber, spinach helps in burning fat at the belly.	Add it to your daily meals and salads to make the most of its nutritional value.

If you observe the nutritional value of all the aforementioned foods, you will find that they are high in fiber, antioxidants and lean proteins. Most of these nutrients are easily available in the cheapest homemade food items. Thus, say no to junk and eat a healthy diet, that will help you to stay healthy.

Perforated Ulcer

Perforated ulcer or gastric perforation or peptic ulcer is a medical condition that occurs due to a hole in the stomach wall, small intestine and esophagus. It is a dangerous condition and in this disease, foods and blood leak into the abdomen causing severe inflammation of the stomach.

Causes
According to medical experts, this medical condition has various causes. The most common cause is bacterial infection that is caused due to the helicobacter pylori infection. These bacteria are responsible for spreading near about 60% stomach ulcers. In some cases, where these are not caused due to internal trauma or diseases of the stomach, possible reasons for this condition may include regular intake of medicines like aspirin in heavy doses. According to a research, anti-inflammatory medications have been found to cause around 50% of perforate stomach ulcers.

Symptoms
The most common symptom is a burning pain or a sensation in the abdomen between the navel and the breastbone. Many people have reported to complain of abdomen pain in between meals and generally in the morning. The pain can be erratic and it varies in intensity. Some other less occurring signs include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and loss of weight. Another common sign is bleeding that occurs in the stomach. In many cases, there is less bleeding in the stomach and so people are generally unaware of the possibility of such ulcers. However, if there is blood in the stool then it can be a possible sign.

Diagnosis
There are various methods for diagnosing perforated ulcers. They are endoscopy, barium meal, biopsy and C14 breath tests. In endoscopy tests, that has become popular in recent years, a flexible tube is inserted in the esophagus. The endoscope is observed under a camera fitted in it that helps the doctor in observing the disease. In the biopsy test, a small tissue sample is tested and after the test, the ulcer is confirmed.

Treatment
The treatment generally includes medications, lifestyle changes and surgery. Since surgery and medications always carry with them the risk of side effects, it is best to prefer changes in the lifestyle. People suffering from this medical condition must avoid foods that cause irritation and must discuss the problem with their doctors.

A proper diet recommended by a medical expert is essential for treating these ulcers. Medicines like antibiotics, H2 blockers, acid pump inhibitors are used for medications. This surgery is generally recommended for patients who don't respond to medications. Some of the common surgeries that are recommended for treatment are vagotomy, antrectomy and pyloroplasty. An expert medical practitioner is necessary for giving adequate advice on the surgery that would be best for this treatment.

Complications
Perforated ulcers may show various complications if the ulcer is not treated timely. Some of the most common problems related to this medical condition include bleeding, perforation (hole) and narrowing and obstruction of the stomach end. Bleeding ulcers erode the stomach walls, blood may slowly seep into the digestive tract. The person may feel dizzy and weak. Peritonitis, an inflammation of the abdominal cavity wall is another disease caused by a hole in the stomach. Swelling and scarring of the duodenum at the end of stomach occurs due to these ulcers.

Perforated ulcers can be treated by surgery and seeking medical treatment before the disease advances in severe stages is necessary for it to be treated timely.

Potassium Rich Foods Chart

Potassium must be included in your daily diet in the right quantity to reduce the risk of heart attacks and blood pressure problems. Sufficient potassium can be consumed by including the rich sources of the mineral in our daily diet. A balanced diet with adequate amount of potassium can help prevent many health disorders and diseases. Many fresh foods have ample potassium in them. It helps in the smooth functioning of pancreas and protects against cardiovascular diseases, kidney diseases, obesity and diabetes. Here is a list of potassium rich foods to help you find out and include the right foods in your daily diet.

List of Foods High in Potassium
Potassium can be found in all kinds of natural fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Therefore, it is but easy to consume the required amount of the mineral by including some of these food items in your diet, according to your requirements.

Fruits

• Apple
• Apricots
• Avocado
• Cantaloupe
• Bananas
• Dates
• Figs
• Kiwi fruit
• Mango
• Orange and orange juice
• Papaya
• Peach
• Strawberries
• Watermelon juices
• Raisins
• Prunes and prune juice
• Pear
• Nectarines
• Honeydew
• Grapefruit
• Pomegranate

Meat and Fish

• Beef
• Chicken
• Lamb
• Pork
• Liver
• Turkey
• Veal
• Bass
• Flounder
• Haddock
• Halibut
• Oysters
• Perch
• Salmon
• Scallops
• Tuna

Beverages

• Beer
• Red Wine
• White Wine
• Cider

Vegetables

• Artichoke
• Acorn squash
• Baked beans
• Butternut squash
• Bamboo shoots
• Fresh or boiled beet
• Black beans
• Lima beans
• Cabbage
• Brussels sprouts
• Carrots
• Dried peas and beans
• Hubbard squash
• Lentils
• Legumes
• Mushrooms
• Turnip cabbage
• Pumpkin
• Potatoes
• Parsnips
• Re-fried beans
• Cooked spinach
• Tomatoes and tomato products
• Yellow turnips
• Vegetable juices
• Lettuce
• Kidney beans
• Cauliflower
• Broccoli

Other Foods

• Bran products
• Chocolate
• Granola
• Molasses
• Milk
• Nuts and seeds
• Peanut Butter
• Yogurt
• Peanuts
• Ice milk
• Eggs
• Wheat bread
• Apple cider vinegar
• Cottage cheese
• Ricotta cheese
• Vanilla Ice-cream
• Cinnamon raisin bagel
• Plain bagel
• French bread
• Plain bagel
• Onion, poppy and sesame seed bagel
• Oatmeal bread
• English muffins
• Cocoa powder

Chart of Foods Rich in Potassium
A simple chart which includes most of the commonly consumed food items, gives the potassium content in each of them. This chart will help you plan your daily diet easily.

Fruits			Vegetables			Other Foods
Food Item	Size	K content	Food Item	Size	K Content	Food Item	Size	K Content
Apple (with skin)	1	148 mg	Artichoke (cooked)	1 cup	595 mg	Molasses	1 teaspoon	498 mg
Apple juice (without sugar)	1/2 cup	125 mg	Beet (cooked)	1/2 cup	655 mg	Brazil nuts	2 ounces	340 mg
Banana	1	422 mg	Broccoli	1/2 cup	143 mg	Egg	1	55 mg
Avocado	1 ounce	100 mg	Fresh Brussels sprouts	1/2 cup	47 mg	Salmon (canned)	4 oz.	409 mg
Dates	5	227 mg	Carrots	1/2 cup	177 mg	Cooked tuna	3 ounces	484 mg
Raisins	1/4 cup	273 mg	Cauliflower	1/2 cup	151 mg	Almonds	2 ounces	412 mg
Strawberries	1 cup	254 mg	Cabbage	1/2 cup	147 mg	Yogurt	6 ounces	398 mg
Cantaloupe	1 cup	427 mg	Lettuce	1 cup	87 mg	Ricotta Cheese	1/2 cup	154 mg
Papaya	1 medium	360 mg	Baked potato (with skin)	1	422 mg	Milk	1 cup	377 mg
Peach	1 medium	186 mg	Steamed spinach	1/2 cup	415 mg	Cottage Cheese	1 cup	217 mg
Pear	1 medium	200 mg	Kidney beans	1/2 cup	355 mg	-	-	-
Watermelon	1 cup	170 mg	Tomato juice	1 cup	535 mg	-	-	-
-	-	-	Sweet potato (with skin)	1	508 mg	-	-	-

Proper amount of potassium must be included in food. Hyperkalemia is excessive storage of the mineral, while hypokalemia is its deficiency. Hence, make sure to consume adequate amount of potassium to stay healthy. Also, consult you doctor before planning your diet as he will give you the much-needed guidance.

Dietary Supplements for Anxiety

Feelings of fear, stress, uneasiness, worry, dread and negative attitude on a continual and prolonged basis is known as anxiety. The term has become an umbrella term for a collective of feelings that make anxious and tensed. Anxiety is closely associated with stress. In today's world, extreme competition to be in the 'team or class' or the 'best in the team', depicts several social issues and complex nature of the modern society. This unhealthy level of competition coupled with an unnatural and unhealthy sophistication has made the incidences of anxiety quite common, to the extent that when it becomes excessive and chronic, it's labeled and deemed to be an anxiety disorder. Anxiety, which implies the meaning, 'to vex or trouble', is very unhealthy even when caused on a regular basis. Whence caused, it creates a situation of mental irritation and hence people have started adapting remedies in the form of dietary supplements.

Use of Dietary Supplements to Tackle Anxiety

A dietary supplement is simply an add-on or accessory of our usual diet. Dietary supplements are used by people in order to take in specific chemicals, nutrients and substances along with the common dietary nutrients which we consume. It is basically an accessory for the usual diet. Dietary supplements can be consumed in different forms such as capsules, tablets, liquids, powders, softgels and gelcaps. In some cases, the supplement is also consumed in raw form, or as a condiment or garnishment or topping on normal food. In some cases herbs are also consumed. It is essential that you consult a doctor or a dietitian before you consume any kind of dietary supplement.

Herbs

In the recent past, medications in the form or traditional herbs have been revived. Liquids, tablets and small extracts of these herbs are often consumed for their medical properties.

• Kava Kava or simply Kava which is scientifically known as Piper methysticum is a herb/crop from the western Pacific regions. The roots of this plant are known for their sedative and anesthetic properties, and upon consumption, the consumer depicts some substantial anxiolytic effects by getting rid of the anxiety, keep the mind at peace, steadying and lowering very high blood pressure and pulse and overall relieving the body of stress and tension. Kava can be consumed in the form of simple herb, Kava beverage, tea cola, and pills
• Passion Flower, which is sometimes also known as Passiflora is another herb. The juices and extracts of the Passion flower can be used as medication, especially to curb down symptoms of anxiety such as extreme stress, muscular tension and insomnia. Negative emotions occurring as a result of secretions in large proportions can be soothed by this herb. Spasmodic activity of the muscles are also curbed down by this herb
• Peppermint is a great answer for a digestive system which has been affected by the anxiety and stress. The human digestive system often reacts very badly to extreme stress and anxiety. Peppermint soothes the upheaval caused in digestive system. Unexplained diarrhea, vomiting (in some cases) and nauseating acidity can be cured by this herb. Peppermint can be consumed directly, or in the form or extract capsules
• Hops is another remedy for stress and anxiety. Hops is a great remedy for diarrhea and anxiety associated digestive problems. It reduced restlessness and nervousness when consumed. The flower is used in the brewing processes, however extracts are often available for medical purposes. Furthermore several alcoholic brews. The herbal form of Hops is often used in collaboration with Valerian
• Valerian is another flowering plant which is used as a herb. Extreme nervousness, hysteria, stress and tension which make the body very volatile and the nerves unstable get soothed by the action of Valerian. The calming effect on the nervous system, digestion and respiration and also helps people to fall asleep. Oral formulas dosages of extracts and pills along with raw herb or fresh extract of Valerian are also used

Now please, please note that any of the herbal supplements should be taken under the supervision and prescription of a doctor. Some of them have very severe side effects and can damage your body. Some of the other herbs which you can use include:

• Saint John's Wort
• Skullcap
• Vervain
• Lemon Balm
• Oats
• Dandelion
• Motherwort
• Damiana
• Hyssop
• Mistletoe
• Cowslip
• Wild Lettuce

These herbs can be consumed in different forms such as raw or direct consumption, through some medical recipe or preparation and also through tablets containing the extract of the herbs. For a proper dosage, you will have to consult a proper herbalist or healthcare professional.

Nutrients, Substances and Medications

There are some specified substances and chemicals which are usually present in very small quantities in our diets. During the times of extreme anxiety, capsules or tablets containing these substances are prescribed by doctors. Such substances include:

• Lysine/L-lysine: which is an amino acid
• Magnesium: a mineral
• Inositol: which is essentially Vitamin B8
• Selenium: antioxidant and a trace mineral
• Melatonin: compound which is a hormone
• L-lysine and L-arginine: which are -amino acid

Now these substances are usually found in our body in quite minute proportions, however to combat extreme anxiety levels, doctors can prescribe tablets of these substances. In fact some of these tables are prescription drugs.

A word of caution, "Do not consume supplements for anxiety without proper medical advise", and hence, visit the doctor. Some of the aforementioned dietary supplements for anxiety may have some serious side effects if consumed in a wrong manner.

How to Stop an Anxiety Attack Naturally

Anxiety is common in humans. But, when it exceeds the normal limits, anxiety may transform to anxiety attacks and a wide range of other such disorders. Studies show that anxiety attacks are common and women are more prone to this condition, as compared to men. This condition is characterized by abnormal fear and anxiety and can cause both physical as well as psychological symptoms. This condition can be annoying as well as scary, as they mimic various other conditions like heart attack and nervous breakdown. Even though, there are medication that can be used for countering this condition, it is always better to try natural methods. Medication may be addictive and may also lead to undesirable side effects.

Treatment

Anxiety attacks are getting increasingly common and having a basic idea about countering this condition with natural methods may prove useful for you. As mentioned above, the condition may cause various symptoms like palpitations, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling and shaking, numbness of hands and feet, stomach upset, choking sensation in the chest, irritability, difficulty concentrating and restlessness. While it is a fact that this condition can mimic other health problems like heart attack, it may also happen vice versa. So, you must consult your doctor and rule out the possibility of other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. It has also been noticed that anxiety attack symptoms, their onset, duration and triggers, may vary from one person to another. But generally, there will be an underlying and persistent fear, that is not ordinarily seen in normal people.

Once it is diagnosed that what you are experiencing is an anxiety attack, you have to treat the condition. Treatment is decided on the basis of the disorder and the condition of the patient. But, this is a condition that cannot be treated with medication alone. A multi-pronged approach with behavioral therapy and medication, is found to be effective in tackling anxiety attacks. It has been observed that the symptoms can be relieved through natural methods too. In fact, natural methods are preferred to medication for anxiety attacks.

Tips to Stop an Anxiety Attack Naturally

As stated above, medication cannot be a long-term cure for anxiety attacks. A combination of medication and behavioral therapy is often recommended by experts. But, natural methods are found to go a long way.

• You can stop an anxiety attack on your own by controlling your breathing and staying calm. If you get frightened, the symptoms will get severe. Try slow and deep breathing that can calm you, within a few minutes.
• It will be always better to deviate your thoughts, when you feel the onset of anxiety attack symptoms. You may either watch TV or read a book or even talk to someone you love. This will help to reduce anxiety and the resulting symptoms.
• Cognitive behavior therapy as well as exposure therapy are two forms of behavioral therapy, which is found to be effective in tackling anxiety attacks naturally.
• If you think that there is something that triggers anxiety attacks, then avoid triggers. It could be anything like lack of sleep, severe stress or some food or beverage.
• So, try to get adequate sleep everyday and go for a balanced diet. Try meditation and other stress-relief techniques. Regular exercise is also found to be beneficial to stop an anxiety attack.
• As far as diet is concerned, caffeine is found to be a possible trigger. So, reduce intake of chocolates and coffee. Even excess sugar is said to be a contributory factor for anxiety attacks.
• It has also been suggested that vitamin C as well as Omega 3 fatty acids may be beneficial for those with this condition. Even magnesium-rich foods may prove good for them.

First of all, consult a health care provider and let him assess your situation. If it is mild to moderate, you may opt for natural methods to stop an anxiety attack. But, if the condition is severe, you have to strictly follow the instructions of your doctor, until it resolves. In such cases, you can follow these methods, along with the conventional treatment. In short, a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise may prove useful in the long run.

Does Chocolate Cause Hyperactivity in Children?

The good poor chocolate has been subject to many myths and wrong accusations. It makes you fat, it causes bad teeth, it is high on the caffeine content, and the most recent one being, it causes acne! (luckily, all of these are myths) An accusation also links chocolate with the serious attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. But does the accusation holds any value? Does the consumption of chocolate really provoke hyperactivity in children. We need to find the facts. But before that, let's understand the hyperactivity disorder in children, in brief.

Hyperactivity in Children
Hyper-activeness is the main symptom of ADHD. Most children show a hyperactive behavior on one occasion or the other. But, constantly showing hyperactive behavior is a serious neurological disorder in children, which needs immediate medical attention. The following are the behavioral traits of hyperactive children - Non-stop talking, fidgeting, inappropriate behavior, cannot focus, constant feeling of boredom and therefore moving from one place to the other, lack of attentiveness, etc., Such kids are difficult to deal with, and early diagnosis of the problem can help relieve the ADHD in children up to a certain extent.

Now come the causes for this troubled behavior in children. The causes of ADHD in children are not very direct. Affected brain structure is the primary cause of hyperactivity in children. Genetic and biological factors, and allergy to certain foods can lead to this affected brain structure. Exposure to certain chemicals like polychlorinated biphenyls and other chemical poisons found in pesticides can also lead to this behavior in children. Excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking by a pregnant woman also hampers the brain development in the fetus, thus leading to hyperactivity after it is born. Some studies also point at a link between exposure to synthetic flavors, preservatives and colors present in food, to ADHD. The popular notion of a link between sugar consumption and hyperactivity made many people link chocolate and hyperactivity. A discussion about this linking follows next. Take a look.

Chocolate and Hyperactivity
There is a thin (apparently non-existent) link between hyperactivity and chocolate consumption. What made people, especially parents, link hyperactivity in children and consumption of chocolate was, children showed this behavior after consumption of sugar containing foods. Chocolate, no doubt, has sugar and caffeine as its key ingredients. Even caffeine is thought to provoke hyperactive behavior in children (again a myth). Lots of research was done to find any connection between these two. Studies were conducted to find the effect of the key ingredients of chocolate (sugar, cocoa, and other additives) on the behavior of children. There were no major behavioral changes reported.

Parents tend to give chocolates to kids because kids have an inborn liking for it. But some children do tend to have an allergy to chocolate. Such children can show hyperactive and impulsive behavior on chocolate consumption. Only a doctor can determine if your kid really has allergy to chocolate. Such kids should not be given chocolates (and chocolate containing foods). We can thus conclude that chocolate plays no role in provoking the hyperactive behavior of a child.

Prevention
Serious hyperactivity in children is a major and sensitive issue. Hyperactivity affects almost 6% of the child population. Neglecting this abnormal and pensive behavior in children can lead to many behavioral complications in the future. Medical help should be taken to treat the ADHD disorder in children. Behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and dietary modifications, form the crux part of the ADHD treatment procedure. Doctors generally recommend foods that are good for the brain for such children. Foods rich in vitamins, proteins, omega-3 acids and all other vital nutrients should be consumed for the best of brain health and overall health. Fast food and food allergens should be restricted. The behavior of parents also forms the key of the treatment procedure. Parents are expected to deal patiently with their kids, and encourage the children to do meditation and other mind relaxing techniques like yoga and deep breathing.

There is no definite and proven link between chocolate consumption and hyperactive kids. Thus, this article has answered the frequently asked question - does chocolate cause hyperactivity in children. So don't deny your kids their right to eat chocolate. But also make sure they are consuming it in safe proportions.

Purine-free Diet

Purines are chemical substances which are not only produced naturally in the body, but also found in various types of foods. These purines are converted into uric acid during digestion which is thrown out of the body thorough the urine. However, when the body starts producing uric acid in very high quantities or if it is not able to excrete uric acid properly, a person is said to have gout. The excess uric acid in the body turns into structures that are sharp like needles called urate crystals which get accumulated in different joints of the body like the big toe, heels, fingers, elbows, thumbs, ankles, etc. Due to the presence of urate crystals, an individual having gout has to experience swelling and terrible pain in the joints. As gout is a type of arthritis, immediate treatment should be provided to the individual so that his condition does not worsen. However, treatment for gout is not only restricted to medications and therapy, but also to major changes in the person's diet and lifestyle. The health practitioner will surely discuss the diet that a patient has to follow to prevent gout attacks completely.

Diet Recommendation

A diet without purine includes those food that have low purine content. As it is not possible to follow a diet that is fully free from purine, the best alternative is to opt for food that are low in purine. Gout patients should eat food that are high in complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables and fruits and lower the consumption of food that are high in proteins because almost all protein rich food contain purines. Also, dietary intake of fat should be restricted because gout patients are highly prone to heart attacks and too much fat can increase the dangers. Food that are safe for gout patients include bananas, fresh cherries, green leafy vegetables, pineapple, cabbage, oranges, bell pepper, low fat dairy products, potatoes, etc. One has to drink a lot of water and other fluids like cherry juice while following a diet without purine.

Low-purine Diet for Gout

As you now know the different types of food that contain low levels of purine, it is also important to know about purine food to avoid. The food included in the list of food that contain purine can be divided into three groups including high-purine food, medium-purine food and low-purine food. Though it is recommended that high-purine food should be completely eliminated from the diet of gout patients, the medium as well as the low-purine food can be consumed in moderate quantities. Know more about low-purine diet tips.

High-purine Food

• Organ meats - kidney, sweetbreads, brains, liver and heart
• Sardines
• Anchovies
• Broth
• Fishes like mackerel, herring and roe (fish eggs)
• Meat extracts
• Gravy
• Scallops
• Consomme
• Game meats- duck, goose, partridge, etc
• Mincemeat
• Bouillon
• Yeast supplements

Medium-purine Food

• Mushrooms
• Whole grain cereals and breads
• Green peas
• Asparagus
• Oats and oatmeal
• Fish and shellfish
• Spinach
• Red meats- beef, lamb, pork, etc.
• Bran and wheat germ
• Cauliflower
• Lentils- peas and dried beans

Low-purine Diet Food

• Pudding
• Skimmed milk
• Macaroni and pasta
• Cake and cookies- small quantities
• Eggs (not more than 3-4 every week)
• Carbonated drinks
• Nuts and peanut butter
• Low-fat/fat-free ice cream and cheeses
• Gelatin
• Sugar and sweets- small quantities
• Tea and coffee
• Oils and fats- small quantities

Other Things to Avoid

Other than the food that are high in purine, individuals suffering from gout should totally avoid the consumption of alcohol. Alcoholic drinks, particularly beer has high content of purine and has the ability to increase the level of uric acid in blood. Other than beer, even drinks like vodka, rum, whiskey, gin, etc. contain purine and hence, should either be avoided or taken in very little quantities. Moreover, gout patients who are overweight should try to bring back their weight to a normal level. This is important because losing weight helps in releasing the pressure caused by the urate crystals from the joints, thus relieving the person from the pain caused by it. Hence, it is necessary to exercise regularly and avoid food like fats to prevent from putting in too much weight.

Purine-free Recipes

People suffering from gout feel disheartened due to the food that they have to avoid during the recovery process. However, you must not think that purine-free food are bland and do not taste good, rather you can make them interesting by the way you cook them. Here are some purine-free recipes you can try to make delicious purine-free food.

Cheese Potato Casserole

Ingredients

• 26 ounces hash brown potatoes, frozen
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 chopped green pepper
• 8 ounces milk
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• Dash of hot sauce
• 10 ounces cheddar soup concentrate
• Salt, as per taste
• 1 chopped onion

Preparation

Heat olive oil in a frying pan and fry onions in a medium to low flame. Once the onions become transparent, add the potatoes, green pepper, salt and milk into it. Stir for some time and shift all the ingredients to a casserole that is greased lightly. Add the cheddar cheese concentrate, grated Parmesan cheese and hot sauce over it. Cook for 40-50 minutes in the casserole at a temperature of 375 degrees F. Before taking the food out of the casserole, check whether it is fully cooked.

Now you can see how you can make your purine food diet interesting by trying out some low-purine diet gout recipes. You may find this diet a little difficult in the beginning, however, once you find relief from the pain caused by gout, you will surely understand the importance of following this diet strictly.

Vomiting After Eating

The involuntary emptying of stomach contents through mouth is known as vomiting. Voluntary (forced) vomiting may be opted for some medicinal reasons. But, here we are going to consider involuntary (that cannot be controlled) vomiting, especially after ingestion of food. Nausea along with headache can sometimes precede vomiting but it may not always lead to vomiting. Sometimes, no symptoms are exhibited and vomiting may occur suddenly. Several mild or serious disorders can lead to this situation. This is a type of eating disorder and finding out the exact underlying cause of the disorder helps determine the treatment.

Causes of Vomiting after Eating

• Common Causes: Inadequate sleep, high blood pressure, excessive exposure to heat, high altitude, motion sickness, sea sickness, indigestion, side effects of certain medicines, exposure to chemical toxins, emotional stress or fear, a reaction to certain smell or odor, fever, overeating, etc. may result in vomiting as soon as you consume food.
• Improper Eating Habits: Taking meals too frequently or starvation for a long period, long intervals between two meals, hastily eating and gulping of food, consuming too heavy, fatty meals, eating when not required, eating late at night, may lead to vomiting after meals.
• Life-threatening Causes: Dysfunction of any of the body systems may cause vomiting immediately after intake of food. So, you should consult your doctor immediately if you are vomiting again and again and experiencing constant intestinal pain after eating. Blocked intestine, gallbladder diseases, heart attack, brain injury, gluten intolerance, gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying due to partial paralysis of the stomach), brain tumor, stomach flu, ulcers, meningitis, appendicitis, migraine headaches, dehydration are some of the causes of vomiting.
• Food Content: Certain ingredients or certain foods which do not suit your body, are not accepted by the digestive system. If such ingredients are present in your food, you are likely to puke after meals. If you are not used to spicy and hot food, consumption of such food can also cause you to throw up.
• Food Poisoning: There are various causes of food poisoning. Bacteria from the contaminated food, improper washing of hands or ingredients, poor hygiene can lead to vomiting.
• Food Allergy: Food allergies lead to discomfort, pain, queasy stomach and nausea after eating. Some people have lactose allergy, some have food-color allergy. Some are allergic to gluten.
• Side Effect of Therapies: People undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy may have to face the problem of vomiting as they consume beverages, snacks or meals during or after the treatment.
• Pregnancy: After having tea, coffee or milk in the morning, a pregnant woman often vomits. During the first trimester, she may often throw up after meals. Nausea, known as 'morning sickness' is the main cause of vomiting during pregnancy.
• Alcohol: Alcohol abuse often leads to vomiting.

Symptoms of vomiting usually subside within a few hours. Chances of dehydration after vomiting are more in case of children than in adults. Symptoms like sunken eyes, rapid pulse, dry lips are noticed, when vomiting continues for a long period. In case of such symptoms, you should contact your doctor, as early as possible.

Preventive Measures

Following preventive measures can help avoid frequent vomiting.

• Lemonade, fresh or pickled ginger root, cardamom and mint help get rid of nausea. Chewing any of them after consumption of food helps prevent vomiting.
• Avoid foods that you are allergic to.
• Avoid brushing your teeth, immediately after eating, as it may induce vomiting.
• Avoid congested rooms, riding vehicles, too much of exposure to heat as far as possible.
• Certain over-the-counter medicines are helpful in avoiding vomiting.
• Avoid eating processed food, junk food or food preserved in refrigerator for a long period.
• Eat fresh fruits and fresh vegetables, whole grain food as far as possible.
• Drink cold or ice-cold drinks.
• Do not mix hot and cold foods.
• Avoid fried, acidic, greasy, sweet and fatty foods.
• Eat smaller and more frequent meals.
• Eat slowly, avoid eating late at night.
• Drink beverages slowly.
• Avoid any stressful activity after eating.
• Eat light or bland food if required.
• Avoid solid food until vomiting subsides.
• Herbal tea, green tea can help prevent vomiting.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
• Drink adequate water.

If you follow the aforementioned instructions sincerely, vomiting after eating should not be a problem any more. You will be able to eat without any fear of vomiting and you will be able to enjoy your favorite dishes too. Nothing can trigger vomiting, if you have made up your mind.

If there are no signs of relief, if you see blood in the vomit, if vomiting is followed by diarrhea, fever, dehydration, headache, confusion, stiff neck, increased heart rate, then you should consult your doctor immediately. As vomiting is not a disease, there cannot be a fixed treatment for vomiting. The doctor would like to know what triggers vomiting, the signs and symptoms, your lifestyle, eating and sleeping habits, etc. You may have to undergo certain tests to find out the exact underlying cause of the disorder. The treatment may vary from person to person, depending upon the cause and the symptoms. Dietary alterations and lifestyle modification can also be suggested by the doctor.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.

Stomach Ulcer Diagnosis

As a part of the normal digestion process, the stomach secretes certain acidic enzymes to help break down the complex food molecules to simpler form. To protect from these juices, there is a protective mucosal lining on the inner wall of the stomach and duodenum. In case the mucosal lining is not working properly, the enzymes slowly erode the stomach wall. Over a period of time, it leads to a condition called stomach ulcer. Early diagnosis of this condition is imperative to avoid future medical complications. Before we jump to peptic ulcer diagnosis, let's take a look at the symptoms that will help in identifying the problems with this type of ulcer.

Stomach Ulcer Symptoms

The term 'peptic ulcer' is used to define ulcerative problems in both the stomach and duodenum. Since it is usually asymptomatic, peptic ulcer diagnosis in the early stages is very difficult. Many people do not have distinctive symptoms, until it is too late to reverse stomach ulcer. A common complaint with this health condition is pain in the upper part of the abdomen, just underneath the sternum. Other symptoms are:

• Frequent regurgitation of foods
• Heartburn like feeling
• Bitter or unusual taste in mouth
• Tendency to vomit after eating
• Sharp abdominal pain
• Problem in swallowing food
• Blood tinge in vomit or stools

Diagnosis and Treatment

Though peptic ulcers affect people of both genders, it is more common in women than in men. A practical solution to avoid worsening of the condition is going for diagnosis at the earliest possible date. Once in the hospital or doctor's clinic, the physician will examine the patient's symptoms and go through his/her medical history. If suspected for stomach ulcer, following diagnostic methods will be conducted to rule out other health conditions:

Endoscopy Procedure
Gastrointestinal endoscopy or gastroscopy is a therapeutic procedure that involves visual examination of the gastrointestinal tract. A small, flexible tube, called catheter is introduced with a telescopic camera in the stomach portion (via mouth). As it traverses through the digestive tract, the doctor visualize the inside structure of the stomach on a computer display. This way, any abnormality in the stomach and duodenum area can be identified easily. During the procedure, sample of the stomach lining is collected for laboratory testing.

Helicobacter pylori Test
Helicobacter pylori infection is found to be a major cause. In short, majority of the patients with stomach ulcer symptoms have infection by this bacteria strain. Taking this into consideration, H. pylori test is used as a diagnostic tool. Samples collected from the stomach lining are directly viewed under sophisticated microscope or they are cultured for identifying presence of bacteria.

Barium Enema Procedure
Another commonly performed test for peptic ulcer diagnosis is barium contrast X-ray test. In this process, barium is injected in the stomach and duodenum portions, after which imaging is done. White barium liquid creates a contrasting effect, thus giving clear X-ray images. Barium enema procedure is useful for identifying the size and severity of stomach ulcer. Also, duodenum ulcers that are difficult to observe by means of endoscopy are diagnosed with barium contrast X-rays.

The best treatment is to prevent onset of the problem. An individual having a poor diet plan and those who have a family history of this condition may develop stomach ulcer with time. Likewise, some people are at a higher risk of getting this painful condition than others. Factors that increase the probability of causing this ulcer are excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, medicine side effects, chronic medical condition and stress.

Identify stomach ulcer causes and consider consulting a doctor, if you suspect it. According to medical reports, approximately 4 million Americans are diagnosed with stomach ulcer every year. More than 5,000 people die of complications caused by ulcer. The condition can be managed, only if timely diagnosis is done. So, do not delay in getting medical attention for peptic ulcer diagnosis at the first signs of ulcer. If diagnostic tests are positive, the doctor will suggest a well-planned diet, lifestyle changes and medication for effectual management of the condition.

Severe Anxiety

It is not uncommon to get terrified and have a panic attack in times of terror or any tragic event. However, some people have problems of severe anxiety, that can arise just because of the anticipation of some future event. Anxiety can be of different types. Some people have severe social anxiety and they are afraid of meeting new people.

Prolonged feeling of mental tension and fear with or without any reason can be a hint towards anxiety disorder symptoms. Only an expert mental health professional can diagnose cases of severe anxiety disorder. We suggest you to refer to an expert mental health doctor, if you're experiencing various severe anxiety symptoms, as detailed below.

Symptoms
Frequent episodes of anxiety are perfectly normal when we encounter stressful situations. Mild anxiety, in fact, is a human behavior and it prepares us to either 'fight or flight'. However, if debilitating anxiety has become an extremely common habit and the person tends to be always afraid of the known or unknown fear, it can be emotionally disturbing for the person and frustrating for those who're living with the person. It is difficult to trace the exact cause of severe anxiety as it can be a consequence of various other emotional disorders like Agoraphobia, phobia, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and substance induced anxiety disorder.

Chest tightness is one of the most common anxiety attack signs. When encountered by a situation that can turn out to be tough to handle, people with chronic anxiety problems may experience pounding or racing heart and a feeling of discomfort in the stomach. Severe anxiety may induce headaches and cause sweating and palpitations. Anxiety is also known to trigger the urge to urinate and a person may feel the urge to urinate frequently in case he or she is feeling anxiety. Besides these symptoms, many people may try to alienate themselves from events or circumstances by indulging in consumption of drugs and excessive medications. Generalized anxiety disorder can also occur due to physical illnesses like overactive thyroid gland. Severe depression and anxiety have been related. Generally, depressed individuals can feel more anxiety than others. While there are many physical symptoms of extreme anxiety, the psychological symptoms are no less. People suffering from anxiety disorders often dread the occurrence of worst. They may think of extreme events like dying, losing control, having a seizure and going mad.

Treatment
It has to be understood that severe anxiety can be treated by adopting a treatment strategy under the expert guidance. You must also exercise will and determination to conquer your fears. You have to understand that you must not rely completely on medications for your treatment. You must surely visit a mental health professional but you must also make lifestyle changes, practice Yoga, meditation and incorporate other healthy habits. One of the main aspects of treating social anxiety is to consult a psychologist who can discuss the issue with patient. Many times, psychiatrists can help patients to resolve certain mental blocks and issues that they are unable to share with others.

A person dealing with social anxiety problems needs to be handled with concern and care. A psychiatrist can help a patient deal with various problems without making him or her uncomfortable. Certainly, severe anxiety medications have been recommended by experts; however, their consumption must be undertaken based on the advice of an expert medical practitioner.

It is advisable to follow a combination of both-prescribed medications and psychiatric help. To increase the effectiveness of the anxiety cure provided, you can also adopt natural and healthy ways of living. Physical exercises, Yoga and breathing exercises can go a long way in imparting a peaceful mind and they also increase self control of emotions.

Foods that Cause Gout

Gout is caused by a condition known as hyperuricemia, the buildup of uric acid crystals in blood. The excess uric acid gets deposited in joints and tendons, in the form of sharp crystals. Such deposits cause swelling and pain in the affected joints. Persistent hyperuricemia may lead to the formation of lumps called tophi under the skin around joints. Accumulation of excess uric acid crystals in kidneys may also lead to kidney stones.

Uric acid is the end product of purine catabolism in the body, and is excreted through urine. An excess of uric acid can occur due to a failure in the excretion of uric acid, genetic predisposition, obesity, cancer as also due to certain medications. Apart from these factors, certain foods with a rich purine content are also linked to an excess of uric acid in the body. Such dietary influence on gout has been explained below, followed by a list of foods that may cause (or contribute to) hyperuricemia.

Gout and Diet
Gout has long been linked to sumptuous meals, and is known as 'Disease of the Kings' or 'Rich Man's Disease'. Seafood, organ meat, poultry, and other purine-rich foods, as well as alcoholic and carbonated beverages have been linked to gout. Though, it is a fact that certain foods cause gout, statistics reveal that only 12% of gout cases are caused by dietary factors.

The basic link between food and gout is 'purines', which are organic nitrogenous compounds present in the cells of every living organism. Purines consumed through dietary sources are broken down to uric acid, which is flushed out of the body through urine. Hence, increased intake of foods rich in purines will lead to an increase in the amount of uric acid in blood, which may cause gout in some people.

Acute gout usually affects a single joint, and is characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms like joint pain, swelling and redness, which subside within a week. If ignored or untreated, this condition may progress to a chronic state involving repeated episodes of inflammation and pain in several joints.

Which Foods Cause Gout?
As mentioned earlier, purine-rich foods cause gout by increasing the uric acid levels of blood. However, not just the amount of purine but the food family also matters. Research indicates that purine-rich vegetables are safer than purine-rich meat and fish, as far as their association with gout is concerned. Alcoholic beverages, sweetened soft drinks, and high-fat foods have been associated with an increased risk for gout.

The different food items that cause or trigger gout have been listed below.

Foods With High Purine Content

• Seafood
• Anchovies
• Sardines
• Herrings
• Shrimps
• Scallops

• Meat
• Organ meats (kidney, liver, brain, etc.)
• Mincemeat
• Processed meat
• Meat gravy

• Others
• Beer
• Yeast extract

Foods With Moderate Purine Content

• Seafood
• Lobsters
• Clams
• All other fish except those mentioned in the above category

• Meat
• Red meat (beef, pork, lamb)
• Poultry
• Meat soup
• Meat broth
• Meat extract

• Vegetables
• Asparagus
• Spinach
• Mushrooms
• Beans
• Peas

Other Foods that Cause Hyperuricemia

• Natural Diuretics
• Celery
• Lemon
• Licorice
• Eggplant
• Cucumber

• Beverages
• Liquor
• Carbonated beverages
• Sweetened soft drinks
• Sweetened fruit juices

• Others
• Deep-fried foods
• Sweetened foods
• Hydrogenated oils
• High-fat dairy products

While excessive intake of high-purine foods may cause gout in some people, such foods may worsen the symptoms experienced by those already suffering from this disease. However, the exact food items that trigger gout may vary for each individual. Hence, instead of avoiding all these foods, one must identify and avoid the specific ones that trigger his/her symptoms.

In addition, one must opt for low-fat dairy products, whole-grain products, potassium-rich foods along with foods high in complex carbohydrates and complex proteins. Following a healthy lifestyle and ensuring healthy eating habits is the key to avoid or control gout and the associated symptoms.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.