H&N Research Inc.
The need for intelligent healthcare solutions has become increasingly urgent. H&N Research Inc. is proud to introduce a groundbreaking mobile health application ONAHN MICHELLE® designed to address one of our nation’s most pressing health challenges: the well-being of our elderly population. H&N Research Inc. has developed and implemented an innovative voice-based mobile application that enables seamless communication and assistance for patients in need.
Chronic Diseases
Every day, the world faces a growing number of medical issues caused by chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and chronic kidney disease. Chronic diseases are long-lasting conditions that cannot be completely cured, but their progression can be managed through healthy lifestyle choices and effective medical treatment. Failing to maintain a balanced lifestyle may lead to serious health consequences. An unhealthy diet is a common contributor to these health complications. ONAHN MICHELLE® helps people to improve their quality of life by providing healthy nutrition advice. It delivers personalized insights, health monitoring, and nutrition guidance through an intuitive, voice-enabled interface.
Heart Disease and high blood pressure
The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood to the whole body. It delivers nutrients and oxygen to all organs and tissues through blood vessels. As the central organ of the circulatory system, the heart is essential to the function of all other organs. When the heart is compromised, it can result in widespread complications throughout the body. Chronic heart diseases include atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease (CAD), and cardiomyopathy, which may lead to heart failure.
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with fat and cholesterol buildup inside blood vessels, making them narrow and hard. This can slow blood flow and cause thrombosis and ischemic events, increasing the risk for heart attacks or strokes.
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a long-term condition in which the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high, increasing the risk of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal disease.
Coronary artery disease (CAD): the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques. This reduces blood flow to the heart, which can cause chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle in which the heart becomes weakened, thickened, or stiff and cannot pump blood effectively to the rest of the body. People with cardiomyopathy may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swollen legs, or irregular heartbeats.
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs. The heart muscle becomes weak or stiff, causing blood and fluid to back up in the lungs, legs, or abdomen. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling of the feet and ankles, and difficulty exercising.
Patients with chronic heart disease are susceptible to harmful nutritional components that can disturb the blood circulation and heart health.
To maintain a heart-healthy diet, individuals with chronic heart disease should avoid:
- Saturated fats (found in high-fat meats, full-fat dairy products, and coconut oil)
- Trans fats (found in cakes and cookies made with hydrogenated oil, fried foods, and margarine)
- High-salt foods
- Products with added sugars
- Refined carbohydrates (found in white bread, white rice, and pastries).
On the other hand, patients should consume foods that are rich in fiber, antioxidants, potassium and low in calories to help maintain lower blood pressure. For example, leafy green vegetables such as spinach and arugula, along with broccoli, carrots, and bananas, are high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Patients can also include lean protein sources like skinless chicken, tofu, and fish. Additionally, they should replace saturated fats with healthier unsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados, and seeds.
Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease that can invade nearly any organ in the human body. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and begin to replace normal, healthy cells. Many factors can accelerate the spread of cancer cells within the body, including poor nutrition and a weakened immune system, which may contribute to the progression to more advanced stages of the disease.
To support treatment and improve overall outcomes, cancer patients are often advised to adopt healthier lifestyle habits. Certain dietary components are known to promote cancer cell growth and should be limited or avoided. These include:
- High blood sugar
- Refined carbohydrates
- Processed meat
- Trans fats (found in cakes and cookies made with hydrogenated oil, fried foods, and margarine)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Indeed, patients need to maintain their strength and support their immune system. To do so, they should consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants, including berries, leafy greens, carrots, and tomatoes. In addition, whole grains such as oats and brown rice, along with lean protein sources like eggs and beans, can help boost immunity and sustain energy levels.
Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs)
The lungs are the primary organs of the respiratory system; they are essential for breathing and gas exchange. The lungs supply oxygen to organs and tissues, helping them function properly. They also remove carbon dioxide from the blood and expel it from the body, a process that eliminates waste from the system. Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are long-term conditions that affect the airways and lung health, causing breathing difficulties and low oxygen levels as they progress. Common types of CRDs include Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Asthma, and Pulmonary Fibrosis.
Asthma is a long-term condition that makes breathing difficult by tightening the airways in the lungs. When exposed to triggers such as dust, smoke, exercise, cold air, or infections, the airways constrict and produce excessive mucus, leading to wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease that makes breathing harder by limiting airflow, and which becomes inflamed and narrowed. It is usually caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances, most commonly cigarette smoke. Common symptoms include chronic cough, excess mucus production, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by excessive deposition of fibrotic tissue in the lung. It becomes thickened, stiff, and scarred over time. Clinically, patients present with progressive dyspnea, nonproductive cough, and fine inspiratory crackles on auscultation.
Lung infection is characterized by harmful bacteria, viruses, or fungi that invade the lungs, causing inflammation, impairing gas exchange, and making it hard to breathe. Examples include bacterial or viral pneumonia and bronchitis.
In sleep apnea, the airway at the back of the throat collapses or gets blocked during sleep, causing poor sleep quality, loud snoring, and daytime tiredness. Sleep apnea may lead to high blood pressure, heart problems, and neurocognitive complications.
A major contributor to disease progression is increased inflammation and mucus secretion in the airways. To prevent further health complications, patients should avoid smoking and exposure to air pollution. Additionally, certain foods can increase inflammation and trigger excess mucus production, which may worsen respiratory symptoms.
Nutrients and foods that should be avoided include:
- Meats high in nitrates (such as Bacon, Ham, hot dogs, and deli meats)
- Fried foods
- Canned soups (high salt content)
- Carbonated beverages (Soda)
- Dairy products (Milk, cheese, etc.)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
In contrast, proper nutrition helps maintain lung function, improve breathing, and reduce inflammation. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and antioxidants—such as leafy greens, carrots, tomatoes, and apples—are excellent choices. Healthy fats like avocados and olive oil also have anti-inflammatory benefits. Finally, patients should drink plenty of fluids and stay well-hydrated to prevent thick mucus buildup and support respiratory health.
Kidney diseases
The kidneys are essential organs of the urinary system; they play a key role in filtering blood and removing waste from the body through urine. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when the kidneys gradually lose function over time, often because of other chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Other kidney diseases can disrupt kidney function and lead to other chronic diseases:
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. CKD often occurs because of other chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or other kidney conditions. Waste can gradually build up in the body, causing fatigue, swelling, and other health problems.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decline in kidney function, leading to reduced ability to filter blood waste. Symptoms include reduced urine output, swelling, nausea, fatigue, and confusion. Maintaining adequate hydration helps prevent AKI and reduces the risk of associated complications.
Kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is an acute infection of the kidney tissue caused by bacteria (e.g., E coli). Kidney infection is often associated with fever, chills, back or side pain, nausea, vomiting, and painful urination. Adopting healthy habits may reduce the risk of kidney infection, including hydration and proper hygiene.
Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the kidney’s glomeruli, causing impaired kidney filtration. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, swelling in the face, hands or feet, and fatigue. Uncontrolled high blood pressure may contribute to the progression and development of glomerulonephritis if not managed promptly.
Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They can block urine flow and cause severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen, along with nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine, or frequent urination. Treatment includes drinking more water, breakup procedures and medications.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder where numerous fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys, causing kidney enlargement and gradually impairing their function. Over time, cysts can grow and damage the kidneys, leading to high blood pressure, pain, urinary tract infection, and kidney failure. Healthy lifestyle choices can slow disease progression, reduce complications, and improve quality of life.
To slow the progression of kidney dysfunction, patients should limit certain nutrients that healthy kidneys normally filter out. These include:
- Salt (sodium)
- Potassium (found in bananas, oranges, tomatoes, etc.)
- Phosphorus (found in processed meats, dairy products, and nuts)
- Excessive quantity of proteins
- Excessive fluid intake
Alternatively, patients with CKD can intake anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables that are low in potassium and phosphorus, such as cabbage, cauliflower, apples, and grapes. In addition, a moderate intake of lean proteins (found in eggs, tofu, and white fish) and healthy fats (such as olive oil) can help control inflammation and reduce stress on the kidneys.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or ineffective use of insulin by the body, resulting in elevated blood glucose (sugar) levels. The role of insulin in the blood is to regulate the blood glucose levels by allowing glucose to enter cells for energy or storage. Blood glucose supplies energy to cells, especially the brain, muscles, and red blood cells. High blood sugar gradually harms the body’s tissues and organs. It causes inflammation and oxidative stress, damaging small blood vessels and reducing nutrient delivery. Type 1 diabetes usually starts in childhood or young adulthood. It occurs when the immune system attacks the pancreas, making the production of insulin almost impossible. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not respond properly to insulin (insulin resistance) and may not make enough insulin over time. It usually develops in adults and is often linked to lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and body weight. The commonly referred “third type” of diabetes is gestational diabetes. It may develop during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet increased demands.
Individuals with diabetes should limit certain nutrients that can increase blood sugar levels. These include:
- Added sugar: found in sweets, sugary drinks, desserts, and many processed foods that can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.
- Refined carbohydrates: found in white bread, white rice, pastries, etc.)
- Saturated fats: fried food, fatty meats, butter, and full-fat dairy.
- Excessive Sodium diet: e.g. canned soups.
- Trans fat: found in processed and packaged food.
In contrast, diabetic patients should benefit from nutrients that help support stable blood sugar levels and overall health. This includes dietary fiber (found in vegetables and fruits), lean protein (found in fish, eggs, and tofu), healthy fats (found in nuts, seeds, and olive oil), complex carbohydrates (found in whole grains, beans, and lentils), vitamins and minerals, and water to stay hydrated and manage blood sugar levels effectively.
A balanced intake of these nutrients can help improve blood sugar control, support energy levels, and promote long-term health.
Obesity and metabolic syndromes
Obesity is a chronic health condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat that increases the risk of developing medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and joint problems. It develops over time due to a combination of factors, including diet, physical activity, genetics, and lifestyle. Managing obesity focuses on enhancing overall health through a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits.
People managing obesity are encouraged to limit nutrients that are high in calories but low in nutritional value, such as:
- Highly processed food
- High sugar diet
- Refined carbohydrate-heavy diets
- High saturated and trans fat foods
- Excessive sodium consumption
On the other hand, a balanced diet that includes whole foods, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats is more sustainable and supportive of long-term health. These beneficial nutrients support fullness, energy balance, and overall health.
Neurological disorders
Neurogenerative diseases are conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, causing a gradual loss of nerve cells over time. This can lead to problems with memory, thinking, movement, and daily functioning. These diseases usually progress slowly and are influenced by a combination of age, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of memory loss and dementia. It mainly affects memory, thinking, and behaviour, making daily tasks increasingly difficult over time. It usually develops gradually and worsens as brain cells are damaged and lost. Parkinson’s disease is associated with movement difficulties, causing tremors, stiffness, and slow motion. Other neurological diseases are not degenerative; people can have normal periods between attacks. Migraine is an episodic neurological disorder associated with headaches and other symptoms that fluctuate intensely. Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures; they occur intermittently with a frequency that can vary daily or monthly.
People with neurological diseases need to avoid certain nutrients that may worsen symptoms, for example, high-risk foods for cognitive decline that may promote inflammation and metabolic stress:
- Highly processed and fried foods
- Sugary drinks and sweets
- High saturated and trans fat foods
- Excessive red and processed meats
Alternatively, individuals with neurological disorders may consider the Mediterranean diet high in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients, and Omega-3 fats (from fish). MIND diet (enriched with leafy greens) and the low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet are strongly recommended to patients with chronic neurological disorders.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a group of conditions characterized by inflammation and damage of joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, and functional impairment. Arthritis can affect people of all ages and may result from degenerative, autoimmune, metabolic, or infectious processes.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form and is primarily a degenerative joint disease caused by the gradual breakdown of articular cartilage and changes in subchondral bone, often associated with aging, obesity, joint overuse, or prior injury. It affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, spine, and hands, producing activity-related pain and brief morning stiffness.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the synovial lining of joints, leading to persistent inflammation, symmetric joint involvement (commonly hands and feet), progressive joint destruction, and possible extra-articular manifestations affecting the lungs, heart, and eyes.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) is another autoimmune condition that can cause inflammatory arthritis, often non-erosive, alongside widespread systemic involvement, including the skin, kidneys, blood cells, and nervous system, with joint symptoms frequently fluctuating with disease activity. Infectious (septic) arthritis results from direct invasion of a joint by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and presents as an acute medical emergency characterized by severe pain, swelling, warmth, fever, and rapid joint damage if not promptly treated.
Certain foods can worsen inflammation, pain, or joint stress. Avoiding certain nutrients can help reduce the inflammatory pathway, oxidative stress, and increase insulin sensitivity. Nutrients that can increase symptoms for people with arthritis include:
- Highly processed and fried foods
- Product with added sugars
- High saturated and trans fat foods
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Excess sodium
On the other hand, a diet emphasizing anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense foods can improve joint health and lower symptoms. For example, Omega-3 fatty acids-enriched foods can help to reduce joint stiffness. In addition, fruitsand vegetables, such as leafy greens and berries, are rich in antioxidants. They can protect joint tissues and support collagen synthesis. Moreover, calcium and vitamin D support bone health, modulate immune function, and reduce fracture risk. ONAHN MICHELLE® can help you select the best choices of nutrients and support you during your arthritis journey.
Acute diseases
Acute diseases begin suddenly and typically last for a short period. They often cause noticeable symptoms, such as pain, fever, fatigue, or discomfort. Examples include infections, flu, injuries, or temporary problems in the body’s normal functions. While acute diseases can sometimes be serious, many are treatable, and patients often recover completely. Prompt medical attention is important to prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery. Unlike chronic diseases, which develop slowly and persist over time, acute diseases usually resolve within days or weeks, allowing the body to return to its normal state. Acute diseases can have serious long-term consequences if left untreated or inadequately managed. In some cases, the damage caused by an acute illness can trigger or accelerate the development of chronic conditions. For example, a severe or recurrent infection may lead to persistent organ damage, while uncontrolled acute inflammation can contribute to long-term tissue injury, including but not limited to cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Early recognition, timely medical intervention, an excellent lifestyle and proper follow-up care are therefore essential not only to resolve the immediate illness but also to prevent the progression to chronic disease. This underscores the importance of monitoring symptoms, adhering to prescribed treatments, and maintainingregular medical check-ups, even after apparent recovery from an acute condition. Understanding acute illnesses helps people recognize symptoms early, seek treatment, and maintain overall health. ONAHN MICHELLE® helps you maintain a healthy life choice and guides you to stay healthy.
Viral and bacterial infections
Infections are caused by different types of microorganisms and vary in their mechanisms, severity, and treatment approaches. Viruses are microscopic agents that can only reproduce inside living host cells; they invade cells and use the host cell to replicate. Viral infection is often associated with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle aches, cough, and sore throat. Viral infection diseases include influenza, the common cold, and viral hepatitis. Viral infections are typically managed with supportive care or antiviral medications in specific cases, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
In contrast, bacteria are single-celled organisms capable of surviving and multiplying independently in the body; they may produce toxins or directly damage tissues, leading to localized or systemic symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, fever, and pus formation. Bacterial infections include pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and tuberculosis. Clinically, bacterial infections often provoke elevated inflammatory markers and may require targeted antibiotic therapy based on the identified organism and its antibiotic sensitivity. Understanding the differences between viral and bacterial infections is essential for accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, prevention of complications, and reduction of antibiotic misuse.
Individuals with viral and bacterial infections have a weakened immune response. They need special dietary guidance to improve their health condition. In parallel, people with infectious diseases need to limit certain nutrients, which include:
- Excessive sodium diet
- High sugar diet
- Refined carbohydrate-heavy nutrients
- High saturated and trans fat foods
- Food with high sugar and patisserie
Alternatively, a nutrient-dense diet helps strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support recovery. Protein intake is essential for immune cell production and tissue repair. In addition, vegetables enriched with vitamins C and E, such as carrots and spinach, act as antioxidants and support immune defence. Finally, people need to stay hydrated during infections, drinking water and warm soups. Good nutrition does not replace medical treatment but is an important supportive strategy for preventing and recovering from infections.
ONAHN MICHELLE® is here to enhance your food choices and to guide you to find your best lifestyle.