Wuhan lab leak

individuals saw a 78% increased chance of developing diabetes within 90 days of infection, while no significant association was observed in vaccinated individuals.” The COVID-19 vaccines obviously protected them.

Allergic and Non-Allergic

Contrary to the common belief that only allergies can cause runny nose, and sneezing, nasal congestion (not due to a cold), especially during the spring season, there is a non-allergy condition that can cause the same rhinitis (nasal inflammatory) symptoms.

As a reaction to an environmental irritant (cat/dog dander, mold, grass, ragweed, pollen), histamine is released in the body, which is the usual form of allergic rhinitis. This condition responds to antihistamine treatment. If the rhinitis does not respond to antihistamine, it may not be allergies at all; it is the non-allergy form of rhinitis, which is caused by polluted air, tobacco smoke, perfume, cologne, cleaning agents, or flu or cold. Antihistamine does not work for any of these since they do not result in histamine release in the body.

About 65 percent of people misdiagnose their rhinitis and buy over-the-counter antihistamine, only to find out it does not work for their (non-allergic) runny nose, sneezing, etc. Even physicians could be confused, so they resort to specific IgE blood testing to be sure in questionable cases.

Nasal rinse

One of the most practical and useful DIY home remedy for rhinitis (allergic or non-allergic) is nasal rinse with one part baking soda and 3 parts non-iodized salt (one teaspoon) in 8 ounces of lukewarm distilled or boiled water that is cooled down to lukewarm in squeezable bottle with a nozzle (like in the NeilMed Sinus Rinse kit). The solution is flushed into each nostril once or twice a day. This rinses out the sinuses of any irritants, viruses, bacteria, etc., that cause runny nose and sneezing. Do not do nasal rinses if you do not have any rhinitis.

Mediterranean diet

There are more than a dozen of diets around but the one that has a proven record of greater benefit to our body and our microbiome is the Mediterranean diet, the top diet the past five years. This way of eating is inspired by the centuries-old traditional cuisines of Italy, France, Greece, Israel, Spain, among others around the same region. It is rich in produce, greenest greens, olive oil, whole grains, legumes, healthy fats (fatty fish, avocados), nuts, seeds, some fruits, various spices, and aromatic herbs. There is a moderate amount of eggs, dairy products, and poultry. Red meat is included by a minimal amount, like beef and lamb, goat. Alcohol (specifically red wine) is included in moderation (1-2 glasses). This diet focuses on food quality and more so on a way of life and a way of eating. As always, moderation is the key.

Avoiding self-abuse with illicit drugs, tobacco, and undisciplined alcohol intake, together with physical exercise and stress management are essential supplements to this diet. All this provide a profound impact on mental health and mood of the partakers and foster a deep appreciation for the pleasures of healthy eating – nutritional food, the enjoyable company of family and friends, and achieving maximal longevity possible.

Some of the excellent food items include mushrooms (Shiitake, portabella, cremini, not the large white mushrooms), the greenest vegetables, arugula, bitten melons, Bok choy, etc., which are all excellent antioxidants that also maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Food we consume is metabolized into various chemical ingredients, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, hormones, etc., the effects of which on our brain, other vital organs and important glands, are like the effects of medications we take. This diet also lessens depression, boosts our immunity, and maintains a healthy balance of our body’s “yin and yang,” achieving wellness.

[WARNING: Eat food as medicine today to avoid having to eat medicine as food tomorrow.]

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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

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The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.

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Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com.