Bananas help improve sleep quality

Many people suffer from insomnia and poor sleep, and this condition gets worse after staying up late and then sleeping until late in the day the next day.

Dr. Sergey Agapkin points out that insomnia is not just an annoying condition, but rather a danger to health, as the risk of myocardial infarction increases among those who suffer from insomnia by 69 percent. The risk of dementia also increases by 30 percent. In addition, insomnia takes an average of 10 years off a person's life. So how do we restore quality sleep?

According to him, non-pharmacological treatments have proven effective in combating insomnia. Among these methods are breathing exercises, hygiene, avoiding using smart devices an hour before going to bed, and some useful foods. As for food, a hearty dinner should be served four hours before bedtime, and only a light meal is allowed two hours before bedtime.

He continues: It is recommended to eat foods rich in protein at dinner, such as non-fatty fish, turkey meat, and eggs that are rich in tryptophan - an amino acid that is converted in the body into melatonin (the nighttime sleep hormone).

You can also eat yogurt, as dairy products have been proven to help improve sleep through their effect on the gut microbiome. Bananas can also be eaten.

Agapkin explains: “The dark spots that appear on bananas are the hormone melatonin - which the brain produces when a person falls asleep.”

How long do cold and flu symptoms last?

Cold symptoms tend to peak during the first few days after a person becomes ill, although some symptoms, such as a runny nose or persistent cough, can last up to 14 days.

According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, symptoms of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, coronavirus and other viruses usually last seven days, but can last up to two weeks.

Those with pre-existing conditions like asthma may experience symptoms for a prolonged period, making some curious about when a cough means they need to make a doctor's appointment.

Dr. Lena Wen told CNN that those who have experienced symptoms for more than two weeks without feeling any improvement should see a medical professional.

Those who suffer from shortness of breath, chest pain, and inability to retain fluids should see a doctor as soon as possible.

In addition, people at the extremes of ages, newborns, the elderly, and those with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms and should seek medical care sooner. 

Wen also warned that viral infections can develop into bacterial infections if not treated. She noted that the symptoms could be a sign of another condition.

Although there are many general signs that indicate when a person should see a doctor, Wen encourages everyone to stay in tune with their bodies and seek medical help when they feel they should.

"The preventative things are all the same, you know: stay home if you're sick, wash your hands, don't rub your eyes and nose and mouth, and stay up to date on your vaccinations," Philip Huang, director of Health and Human Services for Dallas County in Texas, told ABC News.