Category: Lifestyle

Isha Ambani exudes the magic of floral elegance in a timeless bespoke sari gown designed by couturier Rahul Mishra.

Envisioned by renowned celebrity fashion stylist Anaita Shroff Adajania and Rahul, the hand embroidered ensemble commemorates Met Gala 2024 official dress code ‘The Garden of Time’.

Ahead of her attendance at the 2024 Costume Institute exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art titled Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion in New York, Isha’s nature-inspired elegant look was shared by Anaita on her Instagram account.

Celebrating India through its crafts and artisans, the masterpiece also marks Rahul Mishra’s debut at the prestigious Met Gala 2024. Anaita who has also styled celebrities including Alia Bhatt and Natasha Poonawalla for the Met Gala in the past, took to Instagram to share a detailed description behind this iconic masterpiece adorned by Isha Ambani.

“Our garden of time. Isha is wearing a bespoke hand-embroidered couture sari gown from Indian designer Rahul Mishra. For this year’s Met Gala theme of ‘The Garden of Time’, Rahul and I set out to depict nature’s glorious and bountiful lifecycle in this custom look for Isha, which took over 10,000 hours to complete,” expresses Anaita.

Embracing sustainability, the ensemble incorporated intricate elements from Rahul’s past collections. Delicate samples of flowers, butterflies, and dragonflies were meticulously integrated from the archives into the design, via distinct applique and embroidery techniques such as fareesha, zardozi, nakshi and dabka, as well as French knots. “Together, all of these elements carry a powerful narrative about the state of the planet and offer a message of hope and rebirth. The magnificent look was intricately hand embroidered at Rahul Mishra’s ateliers across several Indian villages, supporting hundreds of local craftspeople and weavers,” adds Anaita.

Source : https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/met-gala-2024-isha-ambanis-hand-embroidered-sari-gown-took-over-10000-hours-to-create-8880406.html

French bakers cooked the world’s longest baguette on Sunday at 140.53 metres (461 ft), reclaiming a record for one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy for five years.

The baguette, about 235 times longer than the traditional one, was made in Suresnes in the suburbs of Paris during an event for the French confederation of bakers and pastry chefs.

The previous longest baguette of 132.62 meters was baked in the Italian city of Como in June 2019.

To better that, the French bakers began kneading and shaping the dough at 3 a.m. before putting it in a specially-built slow-moving oven on wheels.

“Everything has been validated, we are all very happy to have beaten this record and that it was done in France,” Anthony Arrigault, one of the bakers, said after the baguette was approved by the Guinness World Records judge.

Part of the baguette, which had to be at least 5 cm thick throughout, was cut and shared with the public.

The rest was to be given to homeless people.

The traditional French baguette must be about 60 cm long, be made from wheat flour, water, salt and yeast only, and weigh about 250 grammes, according to the official regulation, opens new tab.

Source : https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/french-bakers-make-worlds-longest-baguette-beating-italy-2024-05-05

A Kentucky angler has found himself back in Texas to reel in some massive monsters.

Art Weston, state and world record fisherman, returned to Sam Rayburn Lake in the hope of setting another International Game and Fishing Association record.

Last year, with the help of professional fishing guide Captain Kirk Kirkland, Weston set the all-tackle world record after reeling in a 293-pound alligator gar on a six-pound line, as Fox News Digital reported.

Ready to find another beast, the duo ended up reeling in something truly unexpected.

Weston and Kirkland came close on three different occasions to catching another world record-sized alligator gar, but couldn’t hold on after spending nearly an hour-and-a-half battling with one, Weston told Fox News Digital.

The massive fish pulled the two into a “stumpy area” of Sam Rayburn Lake, which ended up being the perfect spot to fight off another monster.

“The only consolation was a very unusual and unplanned catch: a 200-plus-pound alligator snapping turtle,” Weston said.

“When the turtle took the bait, Kirk had a good idea it was a turtle based on the way it was fighting, and he was right, as it came to the surface quickly. What we didn’t expect was how big it was,” Weston added.

The two men had to be careful to protect themselves and to make sure the reptile was safely placed back into the water.

“We had to remove the hook from his foot and [this reptile’s] bite can remove fingers — so you have to be extra careful with them. They also have to be released unharmed since they are a protected species,” Kirkland told Fox News Digital.

Weston and Kirkland were able to skillfully remove the hook and avoid getting bitten by the large reptile before releasing it back into the lake.

“The entire time, the turtle was tracking my movements and had its mouth open ready to strike if I made the wrong move,” Weston said.

“We were able to get it back in the water after just a few minutes,” Weston said.

A catch of this size is rare and remarkable because of the reclusive nature of the protected reptile.

“They are a very old, slow-growing species that are rare to see outside of the zoo, much less catch,” Kirkland added.

Source : https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/fisherman-hooks-prehistoric-200-pound-alligator-snapping-turtle-catching-monster-alligator-gar

We all know that exercise is good for our health, but the intricate ways in which physical activity affects our bodies at the cellular and molecular level have remained largely a mystery. Now, a seminal new study by the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) has shed new light on the complex and far-reaching effects of exercise on the entire body.

Published in the journal Nature, the study, which included an astounding 9,466 assays across 25 molecular platforms and four training time points, identified thousands of shared and tissue-specific molecular alterations in response to endurance training. These changes were observed in a wide range of biological pathways, including immune, metabolic, stress response, and mitochondrial function.

Specifically, researchers discovered physical activity caused significant cellular and molecular changes in all 19 of the organs they studied, from the heart and brain to the lungs and liver. Simply put, working out can literally benefit every fiber of your being!

“It took a village of scientists with distinct scientific backgrounds to generate and integrate the massive amount of high quality data produced,” says co-senior study author Steven Carr, senior director of the Broad Institute’s Proteomics Platform, in a media release. “This is the first whole-organism map looking at the effects of training in multiple different organs. The resource produced will be enormously valuable, and has already produced many potentially novel biological insights for further exploration.”

One of the most striking findings was the widespread regulation of the heat shock response across all of the body’s tissues. Heat shock proteins (HSPs), which are known to play a crucial role in cellular stress response and protein folding, were found to be prominently upregulated in response to exercise. This suggests that the protective effects of exercise may be mediated, in part, by the induction of HSPs, which could help prevent the accumulation of misfolded proteins and maintain cellular homeostasis.

The study also revealed tissue-specific adaptations to endurance training. For example, in the lung, researchers observed a decrease in inflammation-related pathways, while in white adipose tissue, there was evidence of increased immune cell recruitment. The heart and skeletal muscle showed a shared enrichment of mitochondrial metabolism pathways, highlighting the importance of improved energy production in these tissues.

Researchers’ interest piqued when they saw that the small intestine exhibited a robust immune response to exercise, particularly in female rats. The downregulation of transcripts related to gut inflammation and the decreased abundance of various immune cell markers suggest that endurance training may improve gut homeostasis and confer systemic anti-inflammatory effects. This finding is particularly relevant given the growing recognition of the gut-brain axis and its potential role in modulating overall health and well-being.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/exercise-pill-cells-working-out

Amidst the summer heat, the rise in mumps cases in Delhi-NCR has raised concern. Here are signs and symptoms you must know along with preventive tips.

After an outbreak in Kerala, mumps cases are now on rise in Delhi, NCR and mostly affecting children from the age group of 6-7 years. The viral infection caused by paramyxovirus leads to swollen face, painful salivary glands, fever, sore throat and appetite loss. Cases have also been reported in Maharashtra, Hyderabad and Telangana in the past few weeks. While the condition is self-limiting and mostly has manageable symptoms, in rare cases, it can cause meningitis which could even be life-threatening, and deafness.

The disease spreads through infected saliva. To prevent getting mumps, it is advisable to get your kid three doses of MMR vaccine at 9 months, 15 months and 4 to 6 years of age respectively. Children and adolescents who missed the vaccination, can be given 2 doses 4 weeks apart.

Washing your hands properly, practicing cough and sneezing etiquette, cleaning frequently used surfaces with disinfectants and getting vaccination can all help prevent against this infection.

“Amidst the summer heat, the rise in mumps cases is a concerning trend. Mumps is a viral infection that spreads swiftly, causing swollen glands and flu-like symptoms. Early signs that people shouldn’t take lightly include fever, headache, and fatigue as they progress to painful swelling of the salivary glands. Symptoms like severe headache, neck stiffness, or testicular pain warrant immediate medical attention. Prevention hinges on vaccination, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Treatment primarily involves rest, fluids, and pain management. Proactive measures are essential to curb the spread of mumps,” says Dr Nidhin Mohan, Consultant Internal Medicines, Narayana Health City, Bangalore.

What is mumps?

“Mumps, also known as Acute Parotitis involves parotid glands and salivary glands below and in front of the ears. This disease spreads through infected saliva. It is caused by paramyxovirus, a member of the Rubulavirus family. It’s a contagious viral infection that affects the salivary glands and is easily preventable by MMR vaccine, which is already included in our National IAP/WHO schedule since late 1970s,” says Dr Ankit Prasad, Consultant- Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Noida.

How does it spread?

Mumps resolves within days to weeks. It mainly spreads via airborne respiratory droplets through coughing or sneezing. You can catch it by frequently touching a contaminated surface and touching back your own nose-mouth area. It can also spread by saliva via activities like kissing or sharing drinks from the same glass.

Mumps symptoms

“Mumps typically manifest with distinctive symptoms, including swelling of one or both parotid glands, accompanied by pain and tenderness localized around the face, jawline, and ears. Fever, earache, body ache, headache, weakness, and loss of appetite are common. Mumps become apparent approximately two weeks post-infection, with subsequent progression to high fever and glandular swelling,” says Consultant – Dr Jatin Ahuja, an Infectious Diseases specialist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital.

Signs and symptoms of mumps include swollen, painful salivary glands, fever, neck pain, headache, earache, sore throat, fatigue, and difficulty in swallowing leading to appetite loss. Scrotal swelling in boys may also be reported in some extreme cases, says Dr Prasad.

Prevention tips

Vaccination can play a huge role in mumps prevention. MMR vaccine can provide protection against the disease. However, it’s important to follow hand hygiene measures and following cough and sneezing etiquette. It is also important to get the adults vaccinated as growing old can reduce your immunity.

“Given the highly contagious nature of mumps, Vaccination stands as the top of prevention, with the combined MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine serving as a pivotal tool. Administering two doses of the MMR vaccine to children provides robust protection against mumps and its associated complications. However, promoting hand hygiene practices, including regular washing with soap and water, and advocating for respiratory etiquette, such as covering the face during coughing or sneezing, are integral in reducing transmission,” says Dr Ahuja.

“It’s crucial to highlight the importance of adult immunization against mumps, especially for individuals in their 40s or 50s. As individuals age, their immunity to mumps may decrease, leaving them susceptible to infection or potential complications. Therefore, adults who may not have received the MMR vaccine in childhood or who belong to age groups where vaccine effectiveness might diminish should consider getting vaccinated,” adds he expert.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/mumps-cases-rise-in-delhi-ncr-watch-out-for-these-top-symptoms-preventive-tips-101714644657127.html

Doctors are still your best bet to treat cardiovascular issues over artificial intelligence. In a new study conducted at Washington State University, researchers evaluated ChatGPT-4’s ability to assess the risk of a heart attack risk among simulated patients with chest pain. The generative AI system provided inconsistent conclusions and failed to match methods used by doctors to assess a patient’s cardiac risk. Simply put, AI may be able to pass a medical exam, but it can’t replace your cardiologist yet.

Chest pain is one of the most common reasons people end up in the emergency room. Doctors often rely on risk assessment tools like the TIMI and HEART scores to help determine which patients are at high risk of a heart attack and need immediate treatment and which can safely be sent home. These tools take into account factors like the patient’s age, medical history, EKG findings, and blood test results.

In this study, published in the journal PLoS ONE, researchers created three sets of simulated patient data: one based on the variables used in the TIMI score, one based on the HEART score, and a third that included a whopping 44 different variables that might be relevant in a patient dealing with chest pain. They then fed this data to ChatGPT-4 and asked it to calculate a risk score for each “patient.”

The good news? Overall, ChatGPT-4’s risk assessments correlated very well with the tried-and-true TIMI and HEART scores. This suggests that, with the right training, AI language models like ChatGPT have the potential to be valuable tools in helping doctors quickly and accurately assess a patient’s risk.

However, there was a worrying trend beneath the surface. When researchers fed ChatGPT-4 the exact same patient data multiple times, it often spit out very different risk scores. In fact, for patients with a fixed TIMI or HEART score, ChatGPT-4 gave a different score nearly half the time. This inconsistency was even more pronounced in the more complex 44-variable model, where ChatGPT-4 came to a consensus on the most likely diagnosis only 56 percent of the time.

“ChatGPT was not acting in a consistent manner,” says lead study author Dr. Thomas Heston, a researcher with Washington State University’s Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, in a media release. “Given the exact same data, ChatGPT would give a score of low risk, then next time an intermediate risk, and occasionally, it would go as far as giving a high risk.”

Part of the issue may lie in how language models like ChatGPT-4 are designed. To mimic the variability and creativity of human language, they incorporate an element of randomness. While this makes for more natural-sounding responses, it can clearly be a problem when consistency is key, as it is in medical diagnoses and risk assessments.

Researchers did find that ChatGPT-4 performed better for patients at the low and high ends of the risk spectrum. It was in the medium-risk patients where the AI’s assessments were all over the map. This is particularly concerning, as these are the patients for whom accurate risk stratification is most important in guiding clinical decision-making.

Another red flag was ChatGPT-4’s occasional tendency to recommend inappropriate tests. For example, it sometimes suggested an endoscopy (a procedure to examine the digestive tract) as the first test for a patient it thought might have acid reflux rather than starting with less invasive tests as a doctor would.

“We found there was a lot of variation, and that variation in approach can be dangerous,” explains Dr. Heston. “It can be a useful tool, but I think the technology is going a lot faster than our understanding of it, so it’s critically important that we do a lot of research, especially in these high-stakes clinical situations.”

Researchers suggest a few potential avenues on how to improve ChatGPT-4. One is to tweak the language model to reduce the level of randomness in its responses when analyzing medical data. Another is to train specialized versions of ChatGPT-4 exclusively on carefully curated medical datasets rather than the broad, unfiltered data it’s currently learning from.

Despite the current limitations, researchers remain optimistic about the future of AI in medicine. They propose that tools like ChatGPT-4, with further refinement and in combination with established clinical guidelines, could one day help doctors make faster and more accurate assessments, ultimately leading to better patient care.

“ChatGPT could be excellent at creating a differential diagnosis and that’s probably one of its greatest strengths,” notes Dr. Heston. “If you don’t quite know what’s going on with a patient, you could ask it to give the top five diagnoses and the reasoning behind each one. So it could be good at helping you think through a problem, but it’s not good at giving the answer.”

Source : https://studyfinds.org/chatgpt-heart-attack-risk

Tourists can expect a future where visiting world hotspots will come with extra charges or further restrictions – with many places already taking steps depending on the pressures faced by their communities.

Growing tourism numbers are placing popular destinations under extra pressure – due to various factors including environmental and residential concerns.

Here are some locations limiting tourists – or which could be about to take action.

Venice, Italy

A controversial scheme has been introduced for day trippers in Venice in an attempt to reduce the number of tourists.

Signs inform visitors there is a new €5 fee (£4.28) to be paid as part of a trial phase during peak periods of the summer.

Around 200 stewards have been trained to politely walk anyone unaware of the charge through the process of downloading a QR code – with a kiosk set up for people not in possession of a smartphone.

The charge will not apply to hotel guests.

The city has an estimated 30 million visits from tourists every year.

Canary Islands, Spain

Officials are considering introducing stricter rules over tourism amid simmering anger among the locals who are worried about increasing visitor numbers.

Canary Islands president Fernando Clavijo said this month that although the region was a leading Spanish tourist destination, more controls were needed.

Just over a week ago, thousands of people protested in Tenerife, calling for the Spanish island to temporarily limit tourist arrivals.

They want to dampen a boom in short-term holiday rentals and hotel construction which is driving up housing costs for locals.

One of the leaders of the protest, Antonio Bullon, said: “The authorities must immediately stop this corrupt and destructive model that depletes the resources and makes the economy more precarious.”

Haiku Stairs, Hawaii

Demolition of a mountain staircase which was built during World War Two on the Hawaiian island of Oahu was due to start this month – to prevent tourists from using it.

Hikers have long headed to the site, despite being officially closed to visitors since 1987, as part of efforts to access amazing views of the island.

Officials confirmed earlier this month the Haiku Stairs would be removed as part of an operation which will cost $2.5m (£2m).

They later said they were “disappointed and dismayed” visitors were still trying to reach the site despite their “warnings that the project to dismantle” the stairs had begun.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Access to one of the world’s most popular heritage sites was temporarily closed to tourists last September.

Authorities took the decision amid growing concern over the deterioration of the site due to increasing footfall.

The site was built in the 15th century as a religious sanctuary for the Incas.

Maya Bay, Thailand

One of Thailand’s most popular beauty spots was closed to tourists for four years from 2018 – after it was made famous by a film starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh island featured in the 2000 thriller The Beach – but increasing visitor numbers eventually forced officials to take action “to allow its ecology to fully recover”.

Authorities decided to step in following reports that up to 80% of the coral in the bay had died.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Officials said a barrier will begin to be installed this week to block views of Mount Fuji in an effort to tackle growing tourism numbers.

The nation’s highest mountain attracts many photographers and selfie-lovers.

Source : https://news.sky.com/story/popular-global-destinations-which-are-trying-to-limit-tourism-numbers-13125739

As surgical treatments continue to rise, Olivia Petter asks what happens when people all strive towards the same facial features

Take a look at the faces around you. Notice anything? The shapes of people’s eyes all tilting up in the same way towards their hairline? Pouts that pucker up with perfect uniformity? Cheekbones that protrude almost violently through the skin? Perhaps you don’t notice any of these things, in which case you’re already too far gone. But if you do? Well, it’s only a matter of time until you become indoctrinated. Because in 2024 beauty is a homogenous ideal, one that none of us can escape from.

“It is the face of some of the most popular women in our digital realm, from Kylie Jenner to Kim Kardashian, Bella Hadid to Emily Ratajkowski, and has formed the foundation of a new beauty industrial complex, in which a single facial aesthetic is popularised and idealised for the mass market,” says Ellen Atlanta, author of the new book Pixel Flesh: How Toxic Beauty Culture Harms Women. “The result is a culture of homogeneous beauty, in which women covet each other’s features and strive for ideals that can only be achieved through augmentation – normalising injectable procedures, cosmetic surgery, photo editing and filter use in order to achieve the look (all of which have become increasingly accessible over the past decade).”

Those deeply embedded within this specific zone of the pop culture zeitgeist will be familiar with this idea already thanks to the term “Instagram Face”. Coined by writer Jia Tolentino in a viral 2019 piece for The New Yorker, the term reflected the “single, cyborgian look” requested by young women rushing into plastic surgery clinics. “It’s a young face, of course, with poreless skin and plump, high cheekbones,” writes Tolentino. “It has catlike eyes and long, cartoonish lashes; it has a small, neat nose and full, lush lips.”

Back then, this still felt like a fairly new phenomenon. It was shocking, perhaps, and relevant only to a few celebrity faces (Tolentino references Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski as examples), and a handful of high-profile social media influencers you followed online. Five years later, though, and Instagram Face is very much an offline reality, and one so deeply embedded into our culture that it doesn’t even feel strange anymore.

There are now endless filters people can access on any social media platform that show users what their faces would look like with various plastic surgeries. Using them is often part of a wider trend that parodies but also normalises a surgically enhanced aesthetic; how many people have you seen talking to the camera with comically large lips?

“The use of digital enhancement on social media is so commonplace nowadays that people use filters and apps to completely reshape their face and body and think that it’s normal,” says cosmetic surgeon Dr Paul Banwell. “You’re now able to quickly create a new version of yourself that is comparable to looking in the mirror every day. Because these filters and edits have become the norm among influencers and celebrities, it’s altering people’s perception of normal beauty ideals worldwide.”

But what are people actually having done? According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), women had 93 per cent of all cosmetic procedures in 2023. And while the majority of the most popular surgeries were bodily (breast augmentation and reduction were the top two), a surprising entry was blepharoplasty aka eyelid surgery. This was also one of the top five most popular procedures among men, who also favoured rhinoplasty and otoplasty, which is ear correction. Meanwhile, face and neck lift surgery increased across the board, becoming the sixth most popular treatment overall.

Elsewhere, Botox and dermal filler, both of which can drastically change one’s appearance, are surging in popularity, with UK dentists claiming they’ve benefitted hugely from the rise in demand; a 2022 audit by the BAAPS found that 6,639 Botox treatments were performed by its members, marking a 124 increase on the previous year.

Perhaps what’s more concerning, though, is not what’s being done, but what’s inspiring the work that’s being done.“People used to come to see me asking to look like a particular celebrity,” says Dr Banwell, “but many patients come to me [now] with a phone and show me pictures saying, ‘That’s how I get the most likes and followers – could we do that in reality. I’m tired of editing the picture.’ They want to look like the filtered version of themselves. I find that shocking. These filters just aren’t realistic. They will increase the size of a patient’s eyes, change the shape of the face entirely, not to mention wipe out imperfections where lines can’t be removed – the face just wouldn’t be able to show any emotion.”

Today’s surgery requests go far beyond the aforementioned mainstream treatments; there are procedures taking place most people wouldn’t even deem possible, let alone necessary or desirable. Take one look at any of the surgery trends on Instagram or TikTok and you’ll find thousands of videos with millions of views, in which doctors speculate over what celebrities have had done to their faces. The procedures range from cheek enhancements and brow lifts to buccal fat removal and eyelash transplants (yes, really). Then there’s canthopexy, aka “fox-eye surgery”, which involves lifting the outer corners of the eyes to create a more elongated, cat-like shape. And with many people seeking the same sorts of treatments, well, that’s what creates the single cyborgian look that Tolentino references.

“I think what’s most damaging in the cosmetic industry are doctors and clinics striving for a singular type of beauty,” says Dr Mark Solomos, TV plastic surgeon from Channel 4’s 10 Years Younger and ITV’s The Price of Perfection. “They might do a course on brow lifts and then all their patients have the same brow lift, whether it suits them or not. Treatments should always be targeted to the person to get the best outcome for them personally.”

It’s a dilemma for those actually performing the surgeries, given the ethical responsibility they have. “I have to try and stick to my beliefs that we are offering a bespoke and tailored service that enhances and improves the patient depending on so many differing facial factors, as of course no two faces are the same,” adds Dr Solomos. “This isn’t always easy when people see filtered faces and edited faces on Instagram and think this is the new normal – [but] there is no normal or perfect face for everybody. It’s fashion, and fashions come and go. When it comes to surgery, the results are often permanent.”

There are long-term ramifications at a wider societal level for all of this, too. “The pursuit of a singular beauty standard can be damaging because it fosters unrealistic ideals, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem for those who don’t fit the mould,” says plastic surgeon Dr Fadi Hamadani. “It also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and biases, particularly affecting marginalised communities, and can drive people towards risky behaviours and extreme measures to conform.”

It’s also, Atlanta argues, a reductive, capitalist tactic. “Not only is it a genius marketing tool, as a globalised beauty standard creates an incredibly exclusive set of ideals that everybody must augment themselves in order to achieve, but it is also a tool of our collective oppression, a way to keep us in line,” she explains. “Uniformity has been used historically as a form of control and subordination: by conforming to copy/paste versions of one another, by assimilating into an assembly line of identical faces, we lose a sense of our individuality and of our humanity. It goes beyond aesthetics; it’s a political act that hinders our self-definition and ultimately strips us of agency.”

The rise in non-invasive treatments offering similar results to surgical ones – usually involving lasers, radiofrequency and microneedling – has also made achieving a tweaked “look” far easier, giving people the opportunity to achieve the same aesthetics without going under the knife. “We have seen increased requests for FaceTite, which tightens and contours the skin using radiofrequency technology, while Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency to improve skin texture,” adds Dr Hamadani. “Both treatments offer versatility across different skin types and ages, delivering noticeable results with little discomfort or recovery time.”

In some ways, this could be considered a good thing – people can get the look they want without having to undergo major surgery – but perhaps it only exacerbates the central issue at play. Because if these sorts of aesthetics become more widely available, a tweaked and twisted face becomes more ubiquitous, subsequently raising the beauty standards even higher and further from reality.

Source : https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/beauty-features-same-face-instagram-b2534111.html

In today’s digital age, social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have become an integral part of our daily lives, particularly for young adults. A recent study conducted by researchers at The Ohio State University has revealed that even subtle differences in the wording of social media messages can significantly influence college students’ beliefs about depression, anxiety, and their treatment.

The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, involved 322 undergraduate students who were randomly assigned to view posts about mental health with either a “growth mindset,” a “fixed mindset,” or a control condition where the posts did not involve mental health at all.

A growth mindset refers to the belief that a feature, such as mental health, can be improved with effort, while a fixed mindset is the belief that a feature can’t change, no matter how hard you try.

“These relatively subtle messages may be influencing whether they believe they have any possibility of working through their depression and anxiety and getting better,” says lead study author Whitney Whitted, a doctoral student in psychology at Ohio State, in a media release.

Participants who read the growth mindset tweets were more likely to say that depression and anxiety don’t have to be permanent conditions and that people can take steps to alleviate the symptoms. In contrast, those who read the fixed mindset tweets had less optimistic views about the permanence of mental illness and the ability of people to treat it.

“It was just a few minutes of people reading these tweets with small variations in how the messages about mental illness were framed,” notes study co-author Jennifer Cheavens, a professor of psychology at Ohio State. “But it made a difference in what these participants reported they believed.”

The results of this study have important implications for mental health treatment. Growth mindset social media messages may help persuade people with depression or anxiety that it is worthwhile to seek help. Additionally, for those already in therapy, these messages can provide a boost and help persuade them that working hard in therapy can pay off in the end.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/social-media-posts-mental-illness/

Taking an elevator is a wonderful convenience, but a new study finds it’s not doing anything for your longevity. Instead, researchers have found that opting to take the stairs can help you live a significantly longer life. Specifically, climbing a few flights of stairs each day slashes a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease and death — even if you’ve had a history of heart problems.

“If you have the choice of taking the stairs or the lift, go for the stairs as it will help your heart,” says study author Dr. Sophie Paddock of the University of East Anglia and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Foundation Trust in a media release. “Even brief bursts of physical activity have beneficial health impacts, and short bouts of stair climbing should be an achievable target to integrate into daily routines.”

Although cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States, researchers say regular exercise can help prevent it. Unfortunately, the new study, presented at ESC Preventive Cardiology 2024, notes that one in four adults worldwide don’t meet the recommended levels of physical activity.

In the U.S., the CDC notes that adults should be getting around 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. That’s about 30 minutes of brisk walking a day for five days. The CDC also recommends adding two days of muscle-strengthening activities, where you engage all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms), to this exercise regime.

Dr. Paddock notes that climbing stairs is an easy and widely accessible form of exercise that people can do anywhere — from their apartment building to a city park. With that in mind, the new study looked at stair climbing’s influence on longevity and heart health.

The team gathered nine previous studies on climbing stairs involving more than 480,000 people. These studies examined a wide-ranging set of circumstances and did not discriminate based on the number of flights of stairs participants climbed or the speed people walked up those stairs. Those nine reports also included healthy people as well as those with peripheral arterial disease or a history of heart attacks. The participants ranged in age from 35 to 84.

Overall, the new study found that climbing stairs had a connection to a 24-percent lower risk of dying from any cause. Participants also had a 39-percent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Moreover, taking the stairs helped these participants avoid some of the major complications of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, heart failure, and stroke.

“Based on these results, we would encourage people to incorporate stair climbing into their day-to-day lives. Our study suggested that the more stairs climbed, the greater the benefits – but this needs to be confirmed. So, whether at work, home, or elsewhere, take the stairs,” Dr. Paddock concludes.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/take-the-stairs-live-longer/

Fish is often hailed as a nutritional heavy hitter that provides a slew of health benefits.

Rich in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals, seafood can make for a solid choice in an overall balanced diet.

Not every type of fish, however, is a slam dunk from a nutritional perspective.

Michelle Routhenstein, a New York-based cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com, said, “Not all fish are created equal when it comes to their nutrition profile, so choosing specific ones may be more beneficial for your health.”

‘Best’ fish for your health
Salmon

There are good reasons this fish gets a lot of lovin’ from health professionals.

“Salmon is among the best choices for healthy fish. It’s high in omega-3s — fats that help cardiovascular and brain health — and also high in protein,” said Lauri Wright, a registered dietitian nutritionist and professor at the University of South Florida College of Public Health.

Wright said research shows that omega-3 consumption decreases overall mortality from heart disease.

“Further, omega-3 provides a modest reduction in high blood pressure and significant reduction in triglycerides,” said Wright.

“In addition to cardiovascular benefits, omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial for those suffering from arthritis,” she said.

For all these reasons and more, it’s probably a good idea to add omega-3 rich foods to your diet, whether through seafood sources or via walnuts, flaxseeds and Brussels sprouts.

Talk with your own health care professional, of course, about any planned changes to your diet.

Oysters
Slurp, slurp on these good-for-you bivalves, say nutritionists.

“Oysters, like salmon and sardines, are high in omega-3s and also high in iron. They’re also good for the environment. One warning, though: Never consume raw seafood,” said Wright.

Sardines

As Routhenstein noted, sardines are rich in EPA and DHA, omega 3 fatty acids, that provide anti-inflammatory, heart health benefits.

“Sardines also have a unique nutritional profile because they are rich in calcium, which helps with bone health and heartbeat regularity,” she said.

In addition to praising sardines for being packed with omega-3s, Wright said sardines are high in vitamin D and are also inexpensive.

If you want to add more sardines to your diet, Wright has a few easy ideas.

Top a cracker with a sardine and mustard. Sauté sardines in oil, garlic, onions with a bit of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to get rid of the strong fishy flavor and serve with rice. Substitute sardines for lox on top of a bagel.

Halibut

Halibut is rich in selenium, per Routhenstein, which is a heart-healthy antioxidant that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.

“Halibut is also a good source of vitamin B6, which is beneficial for immune, nerve and liver health,” she said.

Red snapper

Pass the red snapper, please.

“Red snapper is a rich source of potassium, which helps improve blood pressure and arterial health,” said Routhenstein, noting this fish is also a good source of protein and B vitamins.

‘Worst’ fish for your health
Sole

Sole has a high risk for contaminants, and it is low in many heart-healthy nutrients like omega-3s, potassium, and magnesium, cautioned Routhenstein.

“It is also high in sodium relative to potassium, which may increase blood pressure levels,” she said.

Farmed tilapia
Another fish you might want to steer clear of is farmed tilapia, which “contains high levels of contaminants, antibiotics and omega-6 fatty acids that can be pro-inflammatory and negatively contribute to your health goals,” said Routhenstein.

Orange roughy
Also known as the red roughy, this fish is best to avoid.

Why?

“Orange roughy has a long lifespan, meaning it often picks up many contaminants throughout its life, including high levels of mercury,” said Wright.

Shark
It’s worth flagging that this creature may not be good for your health, or the environment, experts say.

“Shark is very high in mercury, which is a neurotoxin. It should be avoided completely by pregnant women and children. Further, the population of sharks is also declining,” said Wright.

A note about tuna
Ah, tuna.

This fish can be controversial — so Routhenstein set the record straight.

“Tuna is a rich source of vitamins B6 and B12, which helps support immune, hormonal and nerve health,” she said.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/from-salmon-shark-best-worst-fish-health-according-experts

While some health myths may seem harmless, believing in them can lead to ineffective treatments or unnecessary worries.

Health myths are equivalent to unchecked rumours; both can lead to unnecessary panic, confusion, and potentially harmful consequences if allowed to spread.

But before we discuss these myths at length, let’s take a short walk down memory lane.

Remember as kids how our parents forbade us from staying under a tree after dusk or sleeping under one at night?

The myth was that large trees were haunted. We all believed it.

Cut to science class; the myth was busted when we learnt that trees emit toxic gases such as sulphur dioxide, which is why it’s advised not to sleep under a tree at night.

Now, to health myths.

These often circulate widely, fuelled by word of mouth, outdated information, or misinformation online. While some myths may seem harmless, believing in them can lead to ineffective treatments or unnecessary worries.

Separating fact from fiction is crucial for making informed decisions about our health.

Here are 15 common health myths debunked, based on scientific evidence.

Myth: Eating late at night causes weight gain.
Fact: Weight gain is primarily determined by the total number of calories consumed throughout the day, rather than the timing of meals. However, eating large meals right before bedtime can disrupt sleep and digestion. Therefore, it is suggested to eat the last meal at least two hours before bedtime, so the food has enough time to digest.

Myth: You need to drink eight glasses of water per day.
Fact: The notion that everyone should drink eight glasses of water per day is a myth. The actual amount of water a person needs to drink varies based on several factors, including weather, sweat rate, sweat type, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and overall health.

The US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends 92-124 ounces (2-3 litres) of water daily for the average adult living in a temperate climate. It’s important to listen to one’s body and drink water and other fluids at regular intervals throughout the day rather than relying on thirst to indicate the need for hydration.

Myth: Reading in dim light will harm your eyes.
Fact: The belief that reading in dim light can harm your eyes is a common concern, but the evidence suggests that this is more myth than reality. According to various sources, including statements from medical professionals and scientific studies, reading in low light does not cause permanent damage to the eyes.

Experts clarify that although eye strain can occur, leading to temporary discomfort such as soreness, redness, or headaches, these symptoms are not indicative of lasting damage.

Myth: People with dark skin can’t get skin cancer.
Fact: It is a common misconception that people with dark skin cannot get skin cancer. However, this belief is not true. While it is accurate that darker skin provides some protection against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays due to higher levels of melanin, which can absorb and dissipate UV radiation, this does not confer immunity against skin cancer.

People of all skin colours, including those with brown and black skin, are susceptible to skin cancer. Although the incidence of skin cancer is lower in people with darker skin compared to those with lighter skin, it still occurs.

Therefore, people, irrespective of their skin colour, should use sunscreen.

Myth: Bar soap is covered in germs.
Fact: Bunty, tera sabun slow hai kya? Well, not sure about that, but it sure is a good marketing technique, to say the least.

Extensive research and studies have shown that while bar soap can indeed harbour bacteria, the levels present are not significant enough to pose health risks. Also, they won’t last long enough to spread.

A series of studies, including one from 1965, have consistently demonstrated that the bacteria on bar soaps do not transfer from person to person. Even when bar soap was deliberately contaminated with high levels of bacteria such as Staphylococcus and E coli, subsequent users did not pick up these bacteria.

The cleaning action of soap ensures that bacteria are washed away effectively.

Myth: Holding in a fart can damage the gastrointestinal tract.
Fact: Holding in a fart results in increased pressure within the digestive system, which can lead to symptoms such as bloating, pain, and discomfort. Experts say that while holding gas in can be uncomfortable due to intestinal distension, leading to bloating or nausea, it is not harmful in the long term.

Myth: Detox diets cleanse toxins from your body.
Fact: Experts suggest that the human body is already well-equipped to handle detoxification on its own. The liver, kidneys, digestive system, skin, and lungs all play crucial roles in naturally eliminating toxins from the body. For instance, the liver chemically neutralises toxins, the kidneys filter toxins out through urine, and the skin expels toxins via sweat.

Scientific scrutiny reveals that detox diets rarely specify the exact toxins they aim to remove, and there is minimal evidence showing that these diets effectively eliminate any toxins.

In fact, some of the perceived benefits of detox diets, such as feeling more energetic or focused, are likely due to cutting out processed foods and alcohol, rather than directly removing toxins.

Myth: Eating too much sugar will give you diabetes.
Fact: The relationship between sugar intake and the development of diabetes is complex and often misunderstood. It’s a common misconception that consuming too much sugar directly causes diabetes.

However, the truth is more nuanced.

It’s important to distinguish between different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition and is not linked to sugar consumption or lifestyle factors.

Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is often associated with lifestyle factors, including diet, but does not have a direct causation link with sugar intake alone.

Myth: Carrots help your eyesight.
Fact: While carrots are beneficial for overall eye health, they do not directly improve visual acuity or cure vision impairments.

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a compound that the body converts into Vitamin A.

Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low-light conditions. It supports the function of the retina and is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, the eye pigment responsible for seeing in dim light.

However, consuming carrots will not enhance one’s eyesight to superhuman levels nor restore vision to those who are visually impaired due to genetic, age-related, or disease-related factors.

Myth: Cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis.
Fact: Several studies have investigated this claim and found no evidence to support it. The “cracking” sound is caused by the release of gas bubbles in the synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints.

While habitual knuckle cracking might annoy those around you, it’s unlikely to cause any long-term damage like arthritis.

However, excessive or forceful cracking could potentially lead to joint irritation or injury in some cases. So, while it’s generally harmless, moderation might be wise.

Myth: Alcohol warms you up when it’s cold outside.
Fact: The sensation of warmth you might feel after consuming alcohol is more of a perceived effect rather than a true increase in body temperature.

Alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate, particularly those close to the skin, which may give the sensation of warmth.

However, this can actually lead to increased heat loss from the body, potentially making you feel colder in the long run.

Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/wellness/story/diabetes-from-too-much-sugar-and-15-health-myths-you-should-stop-believing-in-2530738-2024-04-24

Myopia, or the need for corrected vision to focus or see objects at a distance, has become a lot more common in recent decades. Some even consider myopia, also known as nearsightedness, an epidemic.

Optometry researchers estimate that about half of the global population will need corrective lenses to offset myopia by 2050 if current rates continue – up from 23% in 2000 and less than 10% in some countries.

The associated healthcare costs are huge. In the United States alone, spending on corrective lenses, eye tests and related expenses may be as high as $7.2 billion a year.

What explains the rapid growth in myopia?

I’m a vision scientist who has studied visual perception and perceptual defects. To answer that question, first let’s examine what causes myopia – and what reduces it.

How myopia develops
While having two myopic parents does mean you’re more likely to be nearsighted, there’s no single myopia gene. That means the causes of myopia are more behavioral than genetic.

Optometrists have learned a great deal about the progression of myopia by studying visual development in infant chickens. They do so by putting little helmets on baby chickens. Lenses on the face of the helmet cover the chicks’ eyes and are adjusted to affect how much they see.

Just like in humans, if visual input is distorted, a chick’s eyes grow too large, resulting in myopia. And it’s progressive. Blur leads to eye growth, which causes more blur, which makes the eye grow even larger, and so on.

Two recent studies featuring extensive surveys of children and their parents provide strong support for the idea that an important driver of the uptick in myopia is that people are spending more time focusing on objects immediately in front of our eyes, whether a screen, a book or a drawing pad. The more time we spend focusing on something within arm’s length of our faces, dubbed “near work,” the greater the odds of having myopia.

So as much as people might blame new technologies like smartphones and too much “screen time” for hurting our eyes, the truth is even activities as valuable as reading a good book can affect your eyesight.

Outside light keeps myopia at bay

Other research has shown that this unnatural eye growth can be interrupted by sunlight.

A 2022 study, for example, found that myopia rates were more than four times greater for children who didn’t spend much time outdoors – say, once or twice a week – compared with those who were outside daily. At the same time, kids who spent more than three hours a day while not at school reading or looking at a screen close-up were four times more likely to have myopia than those who spent an hour or less doing so.

In another paper, from 2012, researchers conducted a meta-analysis of seven studies that compared duration of time spent outdoors with myopia incidence. They also found that more time spent outdoors was associated with lower myopia incidence and progression. The odds of developing myopia dropped by 2% for each hour spent outside per week.

Other researchers have reported similar effects and argued for much more time outdoors and changes in early-age schooling to reduce myopia prevalence.

What’s driving the epidemic

That still doesn’t explain why it’s on the rise so rapidly.

Globally, a big part of this is due to the rapid development and industrialization of countries in East Asia over the last 50 years. Around that time, young people began spending more time in classrooms reading and focusing on other objects very close to their eyes and less time outdoors.

This is also what researchers observed in the North American Arctic after World War II, when schooling was mandated for Indigenous people. Myopia rates for Inuit went from the single digits before the 1950s to upwards of 70% by the 1970s as all children began attending schools for the first time.

Countries in Western Europe, North America and Australia have shown increased rates of myopia in recent years but nothing approaching what has been observed recently in China, Japan, Singapore and a few other East Asian countries. The two main factors identified as leading to increased myopia are increased reading and other activities that require focusing on an object close to one’s eyes and a reduction in time spent outdoors.

The surge in myopia cases will likely have its worst effects 40 or 50 years from now because it takes time for the young people being diagnosed with nearsightedness now to experience the most severe vision problems.

Treating myopia
Fortunately, just a few minutes a day with glasses or contact lenses that correct for blur stops the progression of myopia, which is why early vision testing and vision correction are important to limit the development of myopia. Eye checks for children are mandatory in some countries, such as the U.K. and now China, as well as most U.S. states.

People with with high myopia, however, have increased risk of blindness and other severe eye problems, such as retinal detachment, in which the retina pulls away from the the back of the eye. The chances of myopia-related macular degeneration increase by 40% for each diopter of myopia. A diopter is a unit of measurement used in eye prescriptions.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/nearsightedness-reaching-epidemic-levels-half-the-world-will-need-glasses-by-2050/

Gustav Klimt’s “Portrait of Miss Lieser”, a painting of a young woman left unfinished when the Austrian artist died, sold at auction on Wednesday for 30 million euros ($32 million) despite open questions about its subject and previous ownership.
The work was long thought to have been lost when in fact it was hanging in a private villa near Vienna for decades, according to the auction house Im Kinsky that put it on display in January before putting it under the hammer. Im Kinsky had estimated its value at 30 million to 50 million euros.

It shows its likely teenage subject in a turquoise dress draped in a flowing floral gown against a red background, her alabaster skin and piercing, pale brown eyes contrasting with her dark, curly hair.
Despite depicting her so clearly, it remains unclear who “Fraeulein Lieser” actually was. The brothers Adolf and Justus Lieser were wealthy industrialists in the Austro-Hungarian empire, having built their wealth on jute and hemp, making twine and rope.

What happened to the painting after Klimt’s death in 1918, when it would have been in his studio, remains unclear, particularly what happened after Nazi Germany annexed Austria in 1938 and the country’s Jews were persecuted, expropriated and sent to concentration camps.
Margarethe left Austria for Hungary and then Britain but the auction house says the painting verifiably never left Austria. Lilly Lieser stayed in Vienna until she was deported in 1942 and then killed in Auschwitz the following year.
Her daughters returned to Vienna after World War Two to reclaim her assets but the painting was not mentioned in any documents, Im Kinsky said.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/klimts-portrait-miss-lieser-fetches-32-million-euros-auction-2024-04-24/

Are we getting older later in life? People dread the idea of aging, however, a new study from an international team of researchers reveals the definition of “old age” is changing. Compared to previous generations, people now put off considering themselves “old” until later in life.

The study, conducted by a team of researchers from Germany and the United States and published in the journal Psychology and Aging, analyzed data from over 14,000 people born between 1911 and 1974 who participated in the ongoing German Ageing Survey. Participants were asked a simple question: “At what age would you describe someone as old?”

According to the team’s findings, people in their mid-60s believe “old age” begins around 75. This perception, though, varied significantly across different generations or “birth cohorts.” People born later, especially those born after 1935, tended to push back the age at which they considered someone old. In other words, the threshold for being considered “old” has shifted upwards over time.

“Life expectancy has increased, which might contribute to a later perceived onset of old age. Also, some aspects of health have improved over time, so that people of a certain age who were regarded as old in the past may no longer be considered old nowadays,” says study author Dr. Markus Wettstein from Humboldt University in Germany in a media release.

Several factors are driving this change in perspective of “old age.” With people living longer, the goalpost for what’s considered old naturally moves further out. Changes to retirement age could also have an impact. In Germany, the retirement age has gradually increased from 65 and will reach 67 by 2031. If people are working longer, it makes sense they may not consider themselves “old” until later.

What piqued researchers’ interest is that they found the trend of delaying old age has accelerated in recent decades but may now be reaching a plateau. While people born between 1911-1935 and 1936-1951 had very different perceptions of when old age started, there was little difference between the 1936-1951 cohort and those born 1952-1974. They speculate this could be due to a slowdown in life expectancy increases.

“The trend toward postponing old age is not linear and might not necessarily continue in the future,” notes Dr. Wettstein.

The study also revealed some interesting demographic differences. Women, on average, considered old age to start two-and-a-half years later than men did. This gender gap has gotten even wider in younger generations. People living in former East Germany, who have a lower life expectancy, tended to peg the beginning of old age earlier than their West German counterparts. Feeling lonely, having more chronic diseases, and worse self-rated health were also linked to considering old age to start sooner.

So why does it matter when we consider old age to begin? Our perception can actually have real impacts on health and well-being. Previous studies have shown that people who believe old age starts later tend to have better self-rated health and lower risks of heart disease and other illnesses. Conversely, perceiving the onset of old age as earlier is associated with worse health outcomes.

Researchers caution that if we postpone “old age” too far into the future, it could backfire by making people complacent about preparing for the challenges that come with aging. There may be an optimal middle ground in terms of health and well-being.

The findings also underscore how our concepts of aging are shaped not just by individual characteristics but by the social and historical context we live in. As life expectancy has increased and health in later life has generally improved, outdated notions of what it means to be “old” are being revised.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/when-does-old-age-begin/

OSLO, Norway — We’ve all heard the phrase “use it or lose it” when it comes to keeping our minds sharp as we age. But did you know your career choice could play a big role in how well your brain ages over time? According to new research out of Norway, having a mentally stimulating job during your working years may help preserve your memory and thinking skills well into your golden years. So, in addition to helping pay the bills, that mentally engaging career could be giving your brain a workout, too!

The study, published in the journal Neurology, looked at over 7,000 Norwegians across 305 different occupations. The researchers categorized the cognitive demands of each job into four main types:

• Routine manual tasks (like factory work)
• Routine cognitive tasks (bookkeeping, filing)
• Non-routine analytical work (computer programming, data analysis)
• Non-routine interpersonal roles (coaching, PR, managing teams)

Then, they tracked whether the participants developed mild cognitive impairment after age 70. MCI involves noticeable declines in memory and thinking abilities beyond normal aging. For example, MCI can take the form of frequently misplacing things or struggling to follow conversations. While it’s not as severe as dementia, it can make everyday mental tasks quite challenging.

Here’s where it gets exciting for workers: the researchers found a striking difference in MCI rates between those with the most and least cognitively stimulating careers. A whopping 42 percent of those in the least stimulating jobs (mail carriers, custodians) developed MCI after 70. For those in the most mentally engaging fields (like teaching), however, that number dropped to just 27 percent.

Even after accounting for factors like education and lifestyle, those least stimulated at work were 66 percent more likely to experience MCI in later life compared to their more mentally challenged peers. Talk about motivation to find a career you love that also gives your noggin a workout!

Source: https://studyfinds.org/stimulating-careers-better-memory/

Move over, Ozempic finger, Ozempic face and Ozempic butt — say hello to Ozempic personality.

The latest transformative outcome of the buzzy weight loss drug may be the most profound yet, with a growing number of patients claiming that the GLP-1 medication — and others like it — have caused anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation, even as they shed the pounds.

Looking into the science behind the life-changing jabs, experts revealed why the medications, originally intended to treat diabetes, could be changing people’s personalities and behaviors.

Ozempic, and other popular treatments like Wegovy, have an impact on dopamine levels, which are responsible for a range of functions.

Along with impacting our emotional and physical drive for food, the brain chemical impacts feelings of reward, pleasure, motivation and movement.

These changing levels could help explain why some users have even claimed the drugs have also reduced their cravings for drugs, alcohol and sex.

Dr Kent Berridge, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of Michigan, explained to The Daily Mail that both addictive substances and food activate the same dopamine signals and reward-learning regions in the brain.

He also noted that: “Cravings for addictive drugs are also amplified by hunger.”

“When researchers are trying to get animals to learn to self-administer cocaine, they often will keep them hungry for a little while, as this helps them learn,” Dr. Berridge explained.

The medical expert added: “Hunger is specifically for food but it’s more general than that, it activates craving for a lot of things. If you’re hungry, the motivational value of things, even that are not food, seems to increase.”

Because these drugs help patients to feel satiated for longer, experts believe they then also lessen cravings for things other than food as well, such as drugs and alcohol.

“Satiety may be not only reducing the craving for food, but potentially for other things,” Dr. Berridge said.

GLP-1 drugs appear to alter the motivational dopamine systems, dampening but not eliminating desires. For example, patients have found that they don’t lose their appetites but eat less while on these medications which experts believe could translate to other vices.

“That would be a possibility — taking the [edge off certain cravings], and those are the ones that are problematic if you’re trying to lose weight or if a person is trying to stop taking drugs,” Dr. Berridge said.

He also shared that a decreased libido while on GLP-1 drugs is “conceivable.”

Dr. Berridge explained that because sex is a pleasurable natural desire, suppressing the reward pathway could lead to a reduced sex drive.

“If you’re suppressing [dopamine activation] a little bit and cutting down those mountain peaks, sexual desire is a natural peak, so that would be plausible,” the medical expert said.

However, he admitted that exacly how GLP-1 drugs are suppressing dopamine systems is still unknown.

The US Food and Drug Administration’s adverse event reporting system received 606 reports of psychiatric disorders connected to Ozempic, along with 324 reports connected to Saxenda and 190 to Wegovy in 2023.

The FDA requires that medications for weight management that work on the central nervous system, including Saxenda and Wegovy, carry a warning about suicidal thoughts.

Ozempic, which is only FDA-approved to treat diabetes, does not come with that warning.

Research has shown that bariatric surgery patients have an increased risk for suicide and self-harm behaviors following the procedure.

Lead study author Dr. Alexis Conason, a licensed psychologist in NYC, noted that triggering experiences such as changes in quality of life and unrealistic expectations also occur to those going through other weight loss treatments such as Ozempic.

“People put so much emotion and hope into weight loss, and are sold this fantasy that if they just lose weight everything’s gonna be okay and all the good things that they want in life will come when they lose weight,” Conason previously told The Post.

Source: https://nypost.com/2024/04/17/lifestyle/experts-reveal-why-ozempic-appears-to-change-peoples-personalities/?utm_source=whatsapp_sitebuttons

Middle-aged Americans are lonelier than their European counterparts. That’s the key finding of my team’s recent study, published in American Psychologist.

Our study identified a trend that has been evolving for multiple generations and affects both baby boomers and Gen Xers. Middle-aged adults in England and Mediterranean Europe are not that far behind the U.S. In contrast, middle-aged adults in continental and Nordic Europe reported the lowest levels of loneliness and stability over time.

We used survey data drawn from over 53,000 middle-aged adults from the U.S. and 13 European nations from 2002 to 2020. We tracked their reported changes in loneliness every two years across the midlife years of 45 to 65. This span provided us data from the so-called silent generation of people born between 1937 and 1945; baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964; and members of Generation X, born between 1965 and 1974.

Our study makes clear that middle-aged Americans today are experiencing more loneliness than their peers in European nations. This coincides with existing evidence that mortality rates are rising for working-age adults in the U.S.

We focused on middle-aged adults for several reasons. Middle-aged adults form the backbone of society by constituting a majority of the workforce. But they also face increasing challenges today, notably greater demands for support from both their aging parents and their children.

Following the Great Recession from late 2007 to 2009, middle-aged adults in the U.S. reported poorer mental and physical health compared to same-aged peers in the 1990s. Compared to several European nations, U.S. middle-aged adults currently report more depressive symptoms and higher rates of chronic illness, pain, and disability.

Why it matters

The desire to belong is an innate and fundamental need. When this is lacking, it can have downstream consequences.

Loneliness is bad for your health. Researchers have found that loneliness is as dangerous as smoking. Loneliness increases one’s vulnerability to sickness, depression, chronic illness, and premature death.

Loneliness is considered a global public health issue. The U.S. surgeon general released an advisory report in 2023 documenting an epidemic of loneliness and a pressing need to increase social connection. Other nations, such as the U.K. and Japan, have appointed ministers of loneliness to ensure relationships and loneliness are considered in policymaking.

What still isn’t known

Why are middle-aged Americans exceptional when it comes to loneliness and poorer overall mental and physical health?

We did not directly test this in our study, but in the future, we hope to zero in on the factors driving these trends. We think that the loneliness Americans are reporting compared to peer nations comes down to limited social safety nets and to cultural norms that prioritize individualism over community.

Individualization carries psychological costs, such as reductions in social connections and support structures, which are correlates of loneliness. Relative to the other nations in our study, Americans have a higher tendency to relocate, which is associated with weak social and community ties.

One of the reasons why we chose countries from across Europe is that they differ dramatically from the U.S. when it comes to social and economic opportunities and social safety nets. Social and economic inequalities likely increase one’s loneliness through undermining one’s ability to meet basic needs. Generous family and work policies likely lessen midlife loneliness through reducing financial pressures and work-family conflict, as well as addressing health and gender inequities.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/loneliness-can-kill-americans

People are living longer, and daily life is getting more expensive. It may be time to rethink the timeline for leaving the workforce.

Handing in your proverbial badge as a sexagenarian has been the goal for many workers around the world: turning 65 would open a golden portal to retirement. Yet increasingly, the idea of stepping away from the workforce in your 60s doesn’t seem realistic – or even sensible – for many people, especially now. Some major financial figureheads agree.

In March, investment-management firm BlackRock released its annual letter to the company’s investors. Its CEO Larry Fink sounded a warning for workers hoping to retire – comfortably and financially secure – in their 60s. As global life expectancy grows, social safety nets fray and cost of living spikes, Fink warned that retirement at age 65 won’t be possible for many, even most, people.

“[Retirement] is a much harder proposition than it was 30 years ago,” wrote Fink. “And it’ll be a much harder proposition 30 years from now.”

From 2000 to 2019, global life expectancy increased from 67 years to 73. By 2050, the UN expects one in six people worldwide will be aged 65 or older. And as the population ages, many countries will soon reach a point where more people are leaving the workforce than are entering it: in the UK, that point may be reached by 2029; in Brazil, by 2035; in India, by 2048; and in the US, by 2053.

“Life expectancy has been continuing to go up since the mid-1850s in the UK,” says Rebecca Sear, professor of population and health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. “But the retirement age hasn’t changed that much.”

As both the health and economic landscape has changed dramatically, is retirement at 65 an entirely unrealistic goal in a modern world?

An arbitrary standard?
Not only has the target retirement age not changed in step with modern circumstances, but it’s also “unclear why the mid-60s became such a focal age for retirement”, says Gal Wettstein, senior research economist at the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. In ways, it was a “rough judgement” intended to usher people out of the workforce towards the very end of their lives.

Yet many government programmes continue to use it as a standard. In the US, Medicare, the federal healthcare insurance program, is currently available only to adults aged 65 and older (there are exceptions for younger people with disabilities). Americans become eligible to receive their full Social Security benefits at age 67, roughly the same age that UK citizens can claim their universal State Pensions.

In the mid-20th Century, when many of these programmes were enacted, life expectancy was significantly shorter: in the UK, for instance, it was roughly 66 years for men and 71 years for women. “If you’re basic about it, [UK citizens would] only spend 8% or 10% of their life on a pension,” says Chris Parry, principal lecturer in finance at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Now, however, “our lives are getting longer, we’re being healthier longer into late middle age and early elderly”, he says. “There are many people wandering now in their early and mid-80s who are healthy and enjoy a very active life – both physically and mentally.”

Source: https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20240404-global-retirement-increase-65-to-75

World Health Day is celebrated on April 7 each year across the globe to raise awareness amongst the general public about widespread health issues and honour the contributions made by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The day focuses on promoting the overall well-being of the population, highlighting grave ailments and contemporary illnesses plaguing the world’s population, and providing solutions to resolve the maladies.

The global health campaign was established by WHO in 1948 and thereafter earmarked that date as World Health Day beginning in 1950.

The theme for World Health Day 2024 is ‘My health, my right’. This year’s theme is to campaign for the rights of everyone and everywhere, to have access to quality health services, information, and education, as well as safe drinking water, good nutrition, clean air, decent working, quality housing, freedom from discrimination, and environmental conditions.

WORLD HEALTH DAY 2024: TIPS TO BOOST MENTAL HEALTH, PHYSICAL FITNESS

It is important to stay physically and mentally fit to maintain good health. Here are six ways to boost both your mental health and physical fitness in order to live a healthier life:

1. Stay Active : Daily exercise is a powerful tool that keeps you physically and mentally active throughout the day. It can also help you in coping with stress and depression. Aim to do 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days. Remember, even short bursts of activity can make a difference.
2. Prioritise Sleep : Getting enough quality sleep is necessary for both physical and mental wellbeing. Lack of sleep frequently causes low focus during work and poor decision-making. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine so that you wake up with a fresh mood every day.
3. Seek Help : Don’t be afraid to see professional help if you are struggling with mental or physical health challenges. It is important to have regular check-ups to discover health diseases, talk to therapists to manage stress, anxiety, or depression.
4. Balanced Diet : Nourish your body with nutritious foods to fuel your workouts and overall health. Try to maintain a fixed schedule for your meals and eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.

Source : https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/world-health-day-2024-6-ways-to-boost-physical-fitness-and-mental-wellbeing-8838302.html

Eclipse events can cause weird weather conditions, radio interference and changes in animal behavior

A rare occurrence in orbit could lead to some strange happenings here on Earth.

The North American solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is expected to hit totality in 15 U.S. states.

What can Americans expect to happen in the sky as well as on the ground?

SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024: WHERE AND HOW TO VIEW THE RARE ORBIT HITTING THE US

Here are eight weird things that could happen during a solar eclipse.

1. Baily’s beads

Baily’s beads is a strange effect that occurs as the moon closes in on the sun during a solar eclipse.

The phenomenon, viewed safely with proper eyewear, is a sliver of light at the edge of the eclipse, often referred to as the Diamond Ring Effect.

Just as the moon covers or begins to uncover the sun, onlookers might be able to view this “interesting edge effect,” Johns Hopkins University astrophysicist Dr. Bill Blair told Fox News Digital.

In “the phenomenon known as ‘Baily’s beads’ … the sun can actually peak through lunar valleys right along the edge of the moon’s limb,” he said.

Eclipse viewers can maximize their chances of seeing effects like this by traveling along the “edge” of the total eclipse zone, Blair suggested.

2. Animal behavior

During a solar eclipse, wildlife species have reacted as if day suddenly turned to night.

During an eclipse, local animals and birds often “prepare for sleep or behave confusedly,” according to the University of Dallas.

Both physical and auditory animal behaviors will shift during the eclipse, National Geographic noted in an article.

“The early onset of darkness disrupts animals’ circadian rhythms, sparking a possible chorus of owl hoots, cricket chirps or even coyote calls, depending on the eclipse-viewing location,” NatGeo wrote.

Because of this expected shift in sound, NASA has released its Eclipse Soundscapes Project, prompting eclipse viewers to pay attention and record differences in animal behaviors in their area.

“Reports of these atypical animal behaviors date back centuries, but the effects of an eclipse on plant and animal life are not fully understood,” NASA wrote in an article.

“The NASA-funded Eclipse Soundscapes Project will collect the sights and sounds of a total solar eclipse with help from interested members of the public to better understand how an eclipse affects different ecosystems.”

3. Strange shadows

The changing orientation of the sun’s light can cast some pretty cool shadows on Earth.

Light that filters through the leaves of trees has been observed to leave crescent-shaped shadows as eclipse totality closes in, Blair shared.

NASA also recommends the use of a pinhole projector to view images of the crescent sun.

These pinhole cameras can also be used during the partial phases of the eclipse instead of wearing protective glasses, according to Blair.

“Even more impressive, if you have a colander or a big soup spoon with small holes in it, hold it up, and you will get a whole bunch of little eclipses,” he said.

During total eclipses only, special shadow bands can be seen in the seconds before totality.

Shadow bands can show up across plain-colored surfaces, appearing as thin, wavy lines of alternating light and dark, as NASA noted.

The effect is similar to the sheen of a swimming pool.

4. Colder weather

The weather during a solar eclipse could change rather quickly.

Local temperatures could drop more than 20 degrees near eclipse totality, the University of Dallas said.

This is because when sunlight fades, the weather starts to cool down.

NASA reported that a 2001 eclipse in Zambia dropped the air temperature by nearly 15 degrees.

Source : https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/solar-eclipse-2024-8-strange-things-rare-event

Is “male menopause” a real thing? It sure is. It’s called “andropause.” However, you may not have seen or heard much about it.

At any given time, 25 million men between 40 and 55 years-old experience andropause in the United States. That’s roughly equivalent to the number of diabetics in the country. Despite the substantial number of men in andropause, there’s a real dearth of research and published material about this stage of life. There are also few clinical trials. It’s important, however, to understand this passage of a man’s life, especially as it affects the heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) system. Cardiovascular disease is the world’s number one cause of death.

Andropause refers to middle-aged and aging men with signs and symptoms of declining male hormones. You may hear this stage referred to as a man’s “mid-life crisis.” The decline is often associated with depression, waning libido (sex drive), sexual dysfunction, loss of muscle mass and tone, and increased abdominal fat. These complex changes are not just hormonal; they are also psychological, interpersonal, social, sexual, and spiritual.

A man’s loss of testosterone can begin as young as age 35 years. It’s a gradual process, with a loss of 1 to 1.5 percent of total testosterone per year. It can take years for a man to develop symptoms, unlike the sudden plunge of estrogen experienced during menopause. The symptoms are like those experienced by women, but men retain fertility, unlike women.

At the same time, thyroid hormone, growth hormone, and DHEA (another hormone) decline in men beginning in their mid-20’s. Signs and symptoms begin in the 30’s to 40’s. By age 80, most male hormone levels decrease to pre-puberty levels.

Andropause’s Link To Cardiovascular Disease

Whether the decline in male hormones is the direct cause of heart disease or just an association is controversial. It is unclear if aging of the heart cells is the cause of disease. If age-related changes can be prevented or delayed, it results in greater well-being and quality of life in the elderly. Elderly persons’ high self-ratings of well-being are correlated to reduced mortality. Also, people who are objectively healthy may rate their health better.

In extreme cases, andropause leads to frailty, decreased reserve, and ability to adapt from cumulative decline and increased vulnerability of multiple body systems. Chronic heart failure is associated with age and andropause, but a causal relationship hasn’t been proven. Many processes contribute to heart failure, but there is no evidence that andropause directly leads to heart failure.

When it comes to living your best life, location matters. Some cities go above and beyond to promote the well-being of their residents, whether it’s by ensuring access to nutritious food, providing ample recreational facilities, or keeping healthcare costs affordable. But in other places, maintaining good health can be an uphill battle. To that point, in its annual list of the healthiest cities in the U.S., WalletHub ranks San Francisco as the clear winner — a choice sure to stir some debate considering some of the far-from-healthy problems the city faces.

To uncover the cities that prioritize their residents’ health, WalletHub crunched the numbers on more than 180 of the most populated U.S. cities. They evaluated each city using 41 key indicators of good health, which were grouped into four main categories: Health Care, Food, Fitness, and Green Space. Researchers looked at everything from the cost of a doctor’s visit to how many people are eating their fruits and veggies to the number of physically active adults. The results? A fascinating snapshot of where in America the healthy life is most accessible.

By using such a diverse array of indicators and assigning them weights based on their relative importance, WalletHub aimed to create a comprehensive and balanced ranking of the healthiest cities in America. However, it’s important to note that no ranking system is perfect, and individual health outcomes can vary widely even within cities that rank highly on these metrics. Nonetheless, this study provides a useful starting point for understanding which urban environments are most conducive to leading a healthy lifestyle.

That’s why San Fran lands atop the others. Despite being mired in a homelessness and drug overdose crisis, the weighted list is based on health factors most easily available to citizens, along with the number of individuals who take advantage of them in each city. San Francisco, though 76th overall in health care ranking, was number one both in healthy food and green space availability. It also ranked 28th overall in fitness.

Similarly, Honolulu placed second overall in green spaces and fourth overall in food, while ranking 27th in fitness and 99th in healthcare. Seattle seemed a bit more balanced than San Francisco and Honolulu, placing fifth overall in fitness, 10th in food, 11th in green space, and 28th in healthcare.

Let’s start with one of the most crucial factors: healthcare affordability. In Laredo, Texas, the cost of a medical visit is three times lower than in Juneau, Alaska. That’s a huge difference that can make or break someone’s ability to get the care they need. St. Louis, Kansas City, and Brownsville, Texas also stood out for their low healthcare costs.

But it’s not just about affordable doctor’s visits – having enough mental health support matters too. If you’re looking for easy access to mental health counselors, Spokane, Washington and Colorado Springs tied as the top places to be, with 12 times more counselors per capita than Laredo, Texas, despite the city’s aforementioned affordability. Rapid City, South Dakota and Richmond, Virginia also scored high in this category.

Of course, preventative care is key to staying healthy, and that starts with what we put on our plates. Portland, Maine takes the cake (or should we say, the carrot?) for the lowest percentage of adults not eating enough fruits and veggies per day. San Francisco, Oakland, and Fremont, California are also crushing it in the healthy eating department. On the flip side, southern cities like Memphis, Chattanooga, and Baton Rouge could use some work in getting their greens.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/san-francisco-healthy-cities-2024/

In a recent poll by Taste Atlas, India’s Rogan Josh and Galouti Kebab ranked 26th and 27th among the world’s top lamb dishes. Originating from Kashmir, Rogan Josh boasts fiery flavours and a vibrant red hue, influenced by Persian and Mughal cuisines. Meanwhile, Galouti Kebab, hailing from Lucknow, melts in the mouth, showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s rich culinary heritage.

Achappam, Gulab Jamun And More Make It To The World’s Top 50 Favourite DoughnutsTo the world, India is known as a haven for vegetarian cuisine. But along with the many dishes that champion the versatility of vegetables, there are also a host of unique non-vegetarian dishes with a rich history of their own which often don’t get as much attention. In a recent poll by digital food ranking platform

The top five spots were taken by Greece’s Paidakia, a dish of marinated lamb chops. Cag kebab, Doner Kebab and Adana Kebab, all from Turkey, with Spain’s Lecahzo coming in at the fifth spot.

Let’s take a closer look at these two iconic dishes from North India.

Rogan Josh

Originating from Kashmir, Rogan Josh is known for its fiery flavours and bright red colour. The name itself, “Rogan” originates from Persian, where it means clarified butter or oil, while in Hindi, it translates to “red.” “Josh” signifies passion, often fiery or hot. Hence, rogan josh involves cooking in an oil-based sauce with intense heat. This dish found its way to Kashmir through the Mughals, who were influenced by Persian cuisine.

The dish was adapted from its original form to suit the unique palate and methods of Kashmir and despite the Kashmiri Brahmin menu typically being vegetarian, Rogan Josh found a place in the regular diet. Their version avoids onions and garlic, instead favouring fennel seeds and hing for flavour enhancement, resulting in a delightful infusion with the lamb. In contrast, the Mughal iteration boasts generous amounts of ginger and garlic.

Generally, rogan josh consists of lamb or goat that has been slow-cooked in oil, yoghurt and a mix of many different spices. Despite its intense red hue, it is usually not a particularly spicy curry. Rogan josh remains a common dish in Northern India and is a popular menu item at Indian restaurants in North America and Europe.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/lifestyle/food/news/two-north-indian-specialties-named-among-the-best-lamb-dishes-in-the-world-article-108910958

So much for the van-tasy.

The dream of ditching expensive apartments for Instagram-worthy nomadic RV adventures and endless excitement took off at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But the #VanLife movement shows signs of slowing amid return-to-office mandates and high gas prices, as trailblazers spill about the speed bumps in their journeys, including unforeseen repair costs, isolation, safety concerns, and tiresome logistics, among other shortcomings.

“Everything is 10 times harder,” Siena Juhlin, 23, admitted to The Wall Street Journal last week. “But everything is also amazingly beautiful and rewarding.”

Juhlin, of Missouri, confessed she is working three part-time jobs to recover the $5,000 she spent to fix the transmission of the white Ford Transit she purchased in August.

And freelance photographer Emilie Hofferber, 28, griped to The Journal about the exhausting complexities of daily decision-making, such as evaluating the safeness of the sleeping conditions at truck stops.

“You’re just always having to make big choices and think about all the tiny things you need for survival,” Hofferber said.

Even more frustrations were shared in a recent post to the Reddit Van Dwellers channel.

“I spent only a few months living vanlife and had a nervous breakdown,” one Redditor penned. “My mental health wasn’t the best to begin with, so perhaps take that with a grain of salt. I still feel that vanlife is a fantastic way to live. I was vanlifing at the height of covid so very isolated, I had envisioned making lots of friends along the way.”

“Making friends takes time: you don’t just meet someone and become close over a weekend,” another Redditor replied, adding, “Additionally, a lot of the expenses of vanlife come from moving: the obvious thing is gas costs, but less obviously, moving around a lot means you don’t have a chance to learn where to get supplies like groceries inexpensively, so you end up paying more money for everything you buy.”

Source: https://nypost.com/2024/03/31/lifestyle/van-lifers-reveal-most-difficult-challenges-of-roving-lifestyle/

The past may be over, but is it ever really past? Researchers from Linköping University explain that how fit middle-aged men were during their youth appears to have a connection to their heart health today. More specifically, men who were in shape as adolescents showed a much lower risk of atherosclerosis close to 40 years later.

Atherosclerosis is the thickening of arteries, usually due to the buildup of plaque within the inner lining. The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, indicates that atherosclerosis is one of the key mechanisms driving the link between physical fitness and cardiovascular disease.

“Our results strengthen the notion that physical fitness is linked to health outcomes much later in life. The findings are worrying in the sense that there is a clear global trend indicating that young people are less fit now than when these study participants were young in the 1970s and 80s. Therefore, I believe that these findings may be even more important for those growing up now,” says Pontus Henriksson, senior associate professor in the Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences at Linköping University, in a media release.

Prior studies have established that being in poor physical shape at a young age shows a link to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. However, the mechanism driving this relationship is not fully understood. Meanwhile, an important risk marker for future cardiovascular disease is the occurrence of atherosclerosis.

The international research team behind this latest study set out to investigate if physical fitness during adolescence is potentially linked to atherosclerosis much later on. If they could prove this, it would indicate that atherosclerosis is a likely mechanism in connection with the observed link to cardiovascular disease.

To conduct this project, researchers linked information provided by the Swedish Military Conscription Register to SCAPIS (the Swedish Cardiopulmonary Bioimage Study), a large population study focusing on heart and lung health among older individuals (ages 50 to 64). Among nearly 9,000 men, all of whom participated in SCAPIS, data on the individuals at conscription at age 18 from 1972 to 1987 was also available. Study authors stress one of the study’s biggest strengths was its basis on the general population, as well as participating men having been followed for a long period (38 years).

Then, the study authors analyzed their coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, using coronary CT angiography (CCTA). This work is the first ever to utilize this state-of-the-art technology as a means of assessing plaques in the coronary arteries in connection with physical fitness at a young age. Additionally, the research team focused on two distinct types of plaques in the coronary arteries. Plaques with calcium have historically been the focus of earlier studies, as they tend to be easier to measure.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/active-childhood-save-your-life/

April Fools’ Day, though an unofficial holiday, is widely popular across the world. All you want to know about its history and significance.

The day to share jokes, pull pranks and laugh generously, April Fools’ Day, though an unofficial holiday, is widely popular across the world. You may not get an off from work or school on this day, but it’s the perfect opportunity to make the atmosphere light-hearted with jokes and hoaxes and even make peace with people you normally don’t get along well with. In India too, April Fools’ Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm thanks to its widespread recognition in popular culture, media, and the internet. (See pics: April Fools’ Day fun pranks for friends and family)

Most of us likely have childhood memories of friends placing plastic jelly fish or cockroach beside the pillow to play prank on April 1 and crying out – ‘April Fool banaya, bada maja aaya’ after seeing your terrified face. No wonder, this day is keenly awaited by pranksters who find newer ideas to leave near and dear ones shocked only to enjoy their reaction thereafter.

Why do we celebrate April Fools’ Day?

April Fools’ Day is being celebrated on April 1 since centuries and while there are many stories associated with it the most popular ones dates to the 16th century France. In 1582, France switched to Gregorian calendar from the Julian calendar as decided by the Council of Trent in 1563. Before this change, New Year was celebrated around the time of spring equinox which used to fall between end of March to April. Following the new calendar moved the start of the new year to January.

Picture this: It’s been a long day, and you’re feeling a bit down. But then, you take a sip of cool, refreshing water, and suddenly, your mood starts to lift. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. A new survey suggests that staying hydrated might just be the key to unlocking more joy in your daily life.

The poll of 2,000 American adults, conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by True Lemon, reveals that the average person experiences 57 “little things” that bring them happiness each week — that’s about eight per day. And what’s one simple way to boost your mood? Drinking enough water, according to 36% of respondents.

We all know that regular exercise is good for our health, but did you know it could also be the key to a better night’s sleep? A new study suggests that consistent physical activity over the long term — and we’re talking about as few as two 30-minute sessions weekly — is linked to a lower risk of insomnia and a greater likelihood of getting the recommended six to nine hours of shut-eye each night.

The study, published in the journal BMJ Open, conducted by an international team of researchers, followed nearly 4,400 middle-aged adults from 21 centers across nine European countries over a 10-year period. Participants reported on their exercise habits at the start of the study and again a decade later, as well as providing information on their sleep patterns, insomnia symptoms, and daytime sleepiness at the end of the study period.

So, what counts as “consistent” exercise? The researchers classified participants as physically active if they reported exercising at least twice a week for a total of one hour or more per week. Those who maintained this level of activity at both the start and end of the study were dubbed “persistently active.”

The results were striking. Persistently active individuals were 42 percent less likely to report difficulty falling asleep, 22 percent less likely to have any insomnia symptoms, and around 40 percent less likely to experience two or more insomnia symptoms compared to their persistently inactive counterparts. They were also significantly more likely to be “normal” sleepers, clocking in the recommended six to nine hours per night, and less likely to be either short (≤6 hours) or long (≥9 hours) sleepers.

Interestingly, the benefits seemed to be tied to the consistency of exercise over time. Participants who were active at the start of the study but became sedentary by the end showed no significant sleep advantages compared to those who were inactive throughout. In other words, it’s not enough to be active at one point – maintaining that activity level over the years seems to be key.

The link between physical activity and better sleep held up even after the researchers accounted for factors like age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and smoking history. They also found that insomnia symptoms were more common in women, older adults, and those with higher BMIs, independent of exercise habits.

So, what might explain this sleep-promoting effect of regular exercise? While the study didn’t delve into the underlying mechanisms, previous research offers some clues. Physical activity is thought to help regulate the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, which governs the sleep-wake cycle. It can also reduce stress and anxiety, promote feelings of relaxation, and even trigger beneficial changes in brain chemistry – all of which can contribute to more restful slumber.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/good-sleep-working-out-30-minutes

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine have developed a new method to create human artificial chromosomes (HACs) that could revolutionize gene therapy and other biotechnology applications. The study, published in Science, describes an approach that efficiently forms single-copy HACs, bypassing a common hurdle that has hindered progress in this field for decades.

Artificial chromosomes are lab-made structures designed to mimic the function of natural chromosomes, the packaged bundles of DNA found in the cells of humans and other organisms. These synthetic constructs have the potential to serve as vehicles for delivering therapeutic genes or as tools for studying chromosome biology. However, previous attempts to create HACs have been plagued by a major issue: the DNA segments used to build them often link together in unpredictable ways, forming long, tangled chains with rearranged sequences.

The Penn Medicine team, led by Dr. Ben Black, sought to overcome this challenge by completely overhauling the approach to HAC design and delivery. “The HAC we built is very attractive for eventual deployment in biotechnology applications, for instance, where large-scale genetic engineering of cells is desired,” Dr. Black explains in a media release. “A bonus is that they exist alongside natural chromosomes without having to alter the natural chromosomes in the cell.”

To test their idea, the scientists turned to a tried-and-true workhorse of molecular biology: yeast. They used a technique called transformation-associated recombination (TAR) cloning to assemble a whopping 750 kilobase DNA construct in yeast cells. For context, that’s about 25 times larger than the constructs used in previous HAC studies. The construct contained DNA from both human and bacterial sources, as well as sequences to help seed the formation of the centromere.

The next challenge was to deliver this hefty payload into human cells. The team accomplished this by fusing the engineered yeast cells with a human cell line, a process that had been optimized in previous studies. Remarkably, this fusion approach proved to be much more efficient than the traditional method of directly transferring naked DNA into cells.

The results were stunning. Not only did the engineered HACs form successfully, but they did so with much higher efficiency compared to standard methods. Furthermore, these designer chromosomes were able to replicate and segregate properly during cell division, a key requirement for their long-term stability and functionality.

“Instead of trying to inhibit multimerization, for example, we just bypassed the problem by increasing the size of the input DNA construct so that it naturally tended to remain in predictable single-copy form,” explained Dr. Black.

But the researchers didn’t stop there. They also devised a clever way to visualize the HACs in their native, uncompacted state. By gently lysing the cells and using a special centrifugation technique, they were able to isolate the HACs away from the rest of the cellular DNA. This allowed them to confirm that the HACs maintained their single-copy status and circular topology, without any unwanted rearrangements or additions.

The implications of this breakthrough are far-reaching. HACs have the potential to serve as safer, more effective platforms for gene therapy compared to current virus-based delivery systems, which can trigger immune reactions and involve the risk of harmful viral DNA insertion into the host genome. Artificial chromosomes also offer the advantage of being able to carry much larger genetic payloads, potentially allowing for the expression of entire gene networks or complex protein machines.

Beyond medical applications, the researchers believe their approach could also be valuable for agricultural biotechnology, such as engineering pest-resistant or high-yield crops.

While there is still work to be done to refine these artificial chromosomes and develop suitable delivery methods for therapeutic use, this study represents a significant leap forward in our ability to engineer designer genomes. By providing a more efficient and controlled way to construct HACs, the researchers have opened up exciting new avenues for advancing synthetic biology and expanding the toolkit for genetic manipulation.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/scientists-create-designer-chromosomes-in-landmark-genetic-engineering-feat

Finding one’s footing as a new mother is an incredibly hard task, but a new study is revealing how social media influencers project a potentially harmful image to their followers that becoming a new mom is fun, glamorous, and effortless. For new mothers attempting to navigate the actual challenges of parenthood, these posts can have a detrimental effect on mental health and well-being.

The research by a team at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is just the latest compelling piece of evidence to suggest what we see on social media is far removed from real life.

Ciera Kirkpatrick, an assistant professor in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications at UNL, adds that certain mothers are likely more vulnerable to the pitfalls of social media than others. Prof. Kirkpatrick focuses on studying how messaging in the media influences peoples’ mental and physical health. As a new mom herself, she recently decided to start investigating social media influencers and the effects they may have on their peers. This led to the discovery of evidence indicating exposure to idealized portrayals of motherhood (clean house, happy kids, photo-ready hair, and makeup) leads to an uptick in anxiety and envy among new mothers.

In this latest report, Prof. Kirkpatrick built upon those earlier findings. She analyzed whether or not certain personality traits may make some people more susceptible to the negative effects of idealized portrayals of motherhood, uncovering along the way that those with a higher social comparison orientation (a tendency to compare themselves to other people) tended to be more negatively affected by the idealized portrayals than others showing a lower social comparison orientation.

More specifically, moms displaying higher social comparison orientation had a higher chance of exhibiting a lower perceived parenting competence when exposed to idealized portrayals of motherhood. In other words, seeing such posts on social media led to these mothers feeling less confident about their own parenting abilities.

“We all have this tendency to compare, but some of us are more inclined to compare than others,” Prof. Kirkpatrick says in a media release. “If we know how these posts are affecting mothers and that they are more detrimental to certain moms, then that helps us, from a strategic health communications or health professional standpoint.”

To conduct this research, the study authors gathered 20 Instagram posts, with half being non-idealized and the other half showing idealized portrayals of motherhood. Those posts were just one aspect of a survey encompassing 464 new moms. That poll featured questions measuring social comparison orientation, self-esteem, perceived parental competence, life satisfaction, and other factors.

Prof. Kirkpatrick also hypothesized that self-esteem may play a key role in the effects of idealized posts. However, the findings actually did not show a significant difference between moms with low or high self-esteem.

Considering short-form video platforms like TikTok and Reels have exploded in popularity recently, Prof. Kirkpatrick plans to deploy similar experiments with idealized and non-idealized motherhood videos. She notes that since beginning her research, she has been heartened to see more and more mom influencers becoming a bit more honest regarding their portrayals of parenthood.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/influencers-motherhood

When it comes to finding the most romantic cities in the world, there are countless options to choose from. From the charming canals of Venice to the stunning views of Paris, each city offers its own unique charm and allure for couples looking to rekindle their romance. Whether you prefer a bustling metropolis or a quiet seaside town, there is a romantic destination out there for everyone. Today, we at StudyFinds decided to take a closer look at some of the most romantic cities around the globe that are sure to make your heart skip a beat.

Getting a change of scenery may just be the key to rekindling the spark with your partner. In fact, research shows many fall back in love on vacation. No matter what reason it might be you’re choosing to celebrate love, let us at StudyFinds help you along the way! You see, we have researched across 10 expert sources to bring you the top seven most romantic cities in the whole world. Don’t agree with our list or feel we missed out on a good recommendation? No worries. We would love to hear from you in the comments below. Now, onto the list!

The World’s Most Romantic Cities To Take Your Partner To

1. Paris, France

The first romantic city on our list should come as no surprise to readers, as this French capital is actually famously known as the “City of Love.” That’s right, it’s none other than Paris. The city is known for its charming cafes, iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, and romantic atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world. Take a romantic stroll along the Seine as you stop at the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa. Or listen to some live music from Montmartre’s buskers while sipping wine at a secret cafe. The options in Paris are endless (Celebrity Cruises).

Travel and Leisure adds that Paris is “never short on beauty, history, or diversions” and is always kind to its lovers. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner in a candlelit bistro or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the top of the Arc de Triomphe, Paris is a city that truly embodies the essence of love. Paris awaits you and your loved ones with open arms, ready to make all your romantic dreams come true.

The Planet D states that Paris is simply “made for Amour.” With its charming cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is a place where love seems to bloom effortlessly. The city’s romantic ambiance is palpable, whether you’re strolling hand in hand or sharing a bottle of fine wine at a secret cafe. Paris truly is a city that embodies the essence of love, and it’s no wonder that so many couples flock to this enchanting destination to create unforgettable memories together.

2. Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy, is our next romantic city. The Planet D describes the act of “getting lost in the maze of alleyways and back streets” as being “pure romance.” Venice is famous for its beautiful canals and gondola rides, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for couples. The historic architecture and charming cafes provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll with your loved one. With its unique blend of culture and history, Venice truly is a city that captures the essence of romance.

Celebrity Cruises recommends wandering “across the Rialto Bridge” or stopping for snacks at a local food market. Venice is a destination that will truly sweep you off your feet with its enchanting ambiance and timeless beauty. Whether you’re savoring a traditional Italian meal at a waterfront restaurant or admiring the stunning artwork in the city’s museums, every moment spent in Venice feels like a scene out of a fairy tale. As the sun sets over the Grand Canal and the city lights twinkle in the water, you’ll find yourself falling even more in love with this captivating city.

Travel and Leisure notes on Venice’s “winding waterways and pastel piazzas” while also enjoying the absence of bustling and noisy cars. The absence of cars in Venice adds to the peaceful and serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the city’s charm. The sound of gondoliers softly singing as they navigate the narrow canals only adds to the romantic allure of Venice. It’s no wonder that this enchanting city has been a favorite destination for lovers and dreamers for centuries. Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets or taking a leisurely gondola ride, Venice is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart.

StudyFinds’ Associate Editor Sophia Naughton spent a summer in Italy. With two trips to Venice during that time, she picked up a few pointers for any future travelers: “While strolling across the Rialto Bridge is definitely something you should do before you leave, the real charm is hidden in less touristy corners of the city,” she says. “As with anywhere you visit, the tourist traps are all littered in bustling areas that everyone flocks to. Make it your mission to discover something tucked away in Venice. My favorite restaurant is Osteria Nono Risorto. Here, you can get delicious pizza in a beautiful garden, all while being taken care of by super sweet staff.”

3. Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece, is the next city you should be taking your loved one to for endless romance. Described by City Sightseeing as being “a volcanic island” in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. It is truly a picture-perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. From exploring the charming villages perched on cliffs to indulging in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Santorini offers a romantic escape like no other.

Medium adds that Santorini is a “paradise for couples seeking a romantic escape.” With its breathtaking views and unique architecture, Santorini provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments with your loved one. Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand through the narrow streets of Oia or enjoying a private dinner overlooking the caldera, every moment in this city is filled with romance.

Luxe Getaways also notes the city’s “inviting beaches” and “postcard-worthy” scenery. Santorini’s charm is undeniable, with its beautiful buildings cascading down the cliffs towards the sparkling blue waters below. The combination of stunning sunsets, delectable cuisine, and cozy accommodations makes it the ideal destination for couples looking to reconnect and create lasting memories together. Whether you’re relaxing on the black sand beaches or exploring the ancient ruins, Santorini’s beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart. It truly is a destination like no other, where love is in the air at every turn.

4. Kyoto, Japan

The city of Kyoto, Japan, is the next destination for lovers we will be talking about. Described by Medium as a “serene and peaceful” getaway, Kyoto is known for its beautiful temples, traditional tea houses, and stunning gardens. Couples can stroll hand in hand through the historic Gion district, explore ancient shrines, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. The city offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, making it a romantic and culturally rich destination for couples.

If you’re struggling with your love journey, Veranda adds that Kyoto has a “handful of spots said to be known as matchmakers.” These romantic spots are believed to bring good luck in love and relationships, adding an extra touch of magic to your trip with your significant other. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your bond or simply enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful setting, Kyoto offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable romantic getaway.

Luxe Getaways notes Kyoto as a city with “ancient traditions” and cultural richness.” Kyoto is known for its stunning cherry blossoms, historic temples, and serene gardens that will create unforgettable memories for you and your loved one. With a blend of history and beauty, Kyoto provides the ideal setting for couples seeking a romantic escape. The picturesque cherry blossoms and tranquil gardens offer a peaceful environment to relax and connect with your partner. Immerse yourselves in the ancient traditions of Kyoto and create lasting memories that will strengthen your bond and reignite the spark in your relationship.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia, is up next on our list of romantic cities, and with its “stunning beaches, lush greenery, and serene temples,” it’s easy to see why (Medium). The island’s exotic beauty and vibrant culture make it a popular destination for honeymooners and couples looking to rekindle their romance. Whether you’re exploring the rice terraces in Ubud, relaxing on the white sandy beaches in Seminyak, or watching the sunset at Tanah Lot temple, Bali offers endless opportunities for intimate moments and unforgettable experiences.

The Points Guy writes that Bali is “seductive,” if only for a sense of feeling so far removed from home when visiting. From the bustling streets of Kuta to the tranquil waters of Nusa Dua, Bali truly has something for everyone. The blend of luxury resorts and budget-friendly accommodations allows visitors to tailor their experience to match their preferences and budget. With its warm hospitality and breathtaking scenery, Bali has a way of captivating the hearts of all who visit, making it a destination that lingers in the memory long after the trip has ended.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/most-romantic-cities

Daniella Thackray arranged for her family to post her final message as she was dying of cancer

A young woman who died from a rare form of cancer is posthumously going viral on social media after her final and poignant message was shared with the world online.

“If you’re reading this then it means I have died from my battle with cancer,” Daniella Thackray’s post says, adding that her family shared the message on her behalf.

“Firstly, I just want to say that not all cancers are caused by lifestyle choices. In some cases it’s genetics or unfortunately it just happens. In my case, despite me being very healthy and active, a cancer started in my bile ducts, which was not caused by anything in my control and my life was never the same again.”

Thackray, who was reportedly in her 20s, lost her life after fighting cholangiocarinoma.

It’s a rare and aggressive cancer, which has no cure, she wrote in her message.

Cholangiocarinoma is a bile duct cancer that typically occurs in people older than age 50. But it can also occur at any age, as the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota notes on its “Diseases & Conditions” webpage.

People are often diagnosed when the cancer has advanced, which makes treatment “difficult to achieve,” according to the organization.

“I really really do hope that in the years to come more research is done about this horrid, cruel disease so that more lives can be saved,” Thackray wrote.

“So with that being said, although we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we react. I chose not to mourn the life I was losing despite being so devastated, but to instead enjoy every moment I had left.”

Source : https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/woman-announces-death-social-media-post-gone-viral-cherish-moment

The lawsuit calls the Birkin handbags an “icon of fashion” – with some fetching well over $10,000 (£7,638).

Hermès has been sued over claims it unlawfully allows only customers with “sufficient purchase history” with the company to buy its famous Birkin bags.

Two residents in California allege Hermès is violating antitrust laws by “tying” the sale of one item to the purchase of another, according to the proposed federal class-action lawsuit filed on Tuesday in San Francisco.

The company’s sales associates are driving the scheme by pushing customers to buy shoes, scarves, jewellery and other items to gain an opportunity to buy a Birkin, the lawsuit said.

‘Only consumers deemed worthy can purchase one’

Consumers cannot purchase a Birkin online from Hermès, and the leather bags – which are handcrafted and can cost thousands of dollars each – are not displayed for sale in the company’s retail stores, according to the lawsuit.

“Typically, only those consumers who are deemed worthy of purchasing a Birkin handbag will be shown a Birkin handbag (in a private room),” the lawsuit claimed.

Hermès sales associates do not earn commissions on Birkin bag sales and are instructed to use the handbags “as a way to coerce consumers to purchase ancillary products”, according to the complaint.

‘Icon of fashion’

The lawsuit calls the Birkin handbags an “icon of fashion”.

They are named after the singer and actress Jane Birkin, who died in July aged 76.

In 1981, Birkin was reportedly sat next to Hermès chief executive Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight from Paris to London, according to L’Officiel magazine.

Following a conversation between the two about how difficult it was to find a bag that could fulfil Birkin’s needs as a mother-of-two, the Birkin bag was born.

Source : https://news.sky.com/story/herm232s-sued-over-claims-it-refused-to-sell-shoppers-birkin-bags-13098958

We’re no longer in the heyday of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and CrossFit. Now, low-impact and functional fitness workouts are all the rage for American adults.

Why it matters: As longevity becomes a primary health focus, more adults are prioritizing workouts that help them in the long-term by being easier on the body and improving strength and flexibility.

• More than one-third of Americans say they prefer low-intensity training exclusively, according to recent data from exercise booking platform Mindbody.
• And almost 29% of consumers said they exercise for a long and healthy life in 2023, compared to 20% the year before.

Flashback: About 15 years ago, we “went through an era [of] high-intensity interval training,” from Insanity to CrossFit, says Nima Alamdari, honorary professor of sport and health sciences at the University of Exeter.

When done too quickly, those kinds of high-impact workouts can lead to back, knee or ankle injuries, Alamdari says.

Now, Pilates, in particular, is taking off.

• Pilates — a low-impact exercise that benefits balance, flexibility and core strength and can help athletes recover from injuries — was the most popular ClassPass workout of 2023, with booking reservations up 92% from 2022, according to data shared with Axios.
• And Yelp searches for Pilates increased 25% from the previous year.

“Functional fitness,” a kind of movement that more than half of those surveyed by Mindbody say they engaged in, is a relatively new wellness phrase.

• It doesn’t have an exact clinical definition, but it generally means exercise that advances physiological function, Alamdari tells Axios.
• Mindbody defines it as a “type of strength training that prepares the body for day-to-day activities like squatting, bending, pushing, and lunging.”
• Unlike stationary bikes and certain gym equipment — which often involve singular repetitive motions — functional fitness exercises typically work multiple muscle groups via different planes of movement, done at low or high intensity, and with or without equipment.

Functional fitness and low-impact exercises like Pilates are “particularly important” for people 40 and older because that’s the age that muscle mass and function can start to decline, says Alamdari, who’s a clinical advisory board member of functional fitness workout company Pvolve.

Source : https://www.axios.com/2024/03/08/pilates-classpass-functional-fitness-popular

In a world where plastic is literally in the air, a concerning new study finds that people with heart disease may have more plastic than plaque in their arteries. In fact, researchers in Italy discovered that more than half of the patients they examined had detectable microplastics and even tinier nanoplastics mixed in with the plaque in their clogged arteries.

The groundbreaking study focused on patients undergoing surgery for a condition related to the buildup of plaque in the arteries — specifically, in the carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain. Researchers analyzed the plaque extracted during these procedures, employing sophisticated techniques like pyrolysis – gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, stable isotope analysis, and electron microscopy. These high-tech methods can reveal the chemical makeup of substances and visualize the tiniest particles, essentially allowing scientists to “see” the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (collectively known as MNPs) in the arterial plaque.

What they found was startling: nearly six in 10 patients had these plastic particles embedded within the plaque in their arteries. Specifically, polyethylene, the materials that make shopping bags and packaging materials, was found in the plaque of 58.4 percent of patients. Polyvinyl chloride, used in everything from pipes to vinyl records, was present in 12.1 percent of the samples.

The presence of these materials was not silent; it was visually confirmed by electron microscopy, which showed jagged-edged particles nestled among the cells designed to remove debris and scattered in the plaque itself. Some particles even contained chlorine, a component of polyvinyl chloride, hinting at the diverse nature of plastics invading our vascular systems.

The study didn’t stop at just identifying the presence of these particles. It went further to explore the implications for patient health. By following the health outcomes of 257 patients over an average period of nearly 34 months, the researchers discovered that those with MNPs in their plaque faced a much higher risk of severe cardiovascular events — like heart attacks, strokes, or even death — compared to those without. The risk was over four times higher for those with MNPs in their arterial plaque.

“Humans are exposed to microplastics and nanoplastics by means of ingestion and inhalation. Previous investigations have detected microplastics and nanoplastics in multiple tissues, including colon, placenta, liver, spleen, and lymph node tissues. Animal studies indicate that microplastics and nanoplastics can cause toxic effects at multiple sites, potentially by inducing oxidative stress. Until now, information on the health effects in humans of ingested or inhaled microplastics and nanoplastics has been scant,” writes Philip J. Landrigan, M.D. in an editorial tied to the new study.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/heart-plastic-clogging-arteries/

International Women’s Day is marked on March 8 every year across the globe. It is a day to honour and recognise women’s resilience, strength, and power. On this day, people also take time to consider the work still left to be done in the ongoing battle for gender equality. In 2024, the theme for International Women’s Day is ‘Inspire Inclusion’, meaning that we must value and respect women of all backgrounds. Women feel more empowered when they have a sense of importance and belonging.

Women play important roles in many fields, such as homemaking, economics, education, engineering, and innovation. Through their determination and beliefs, they help to make the world a better place. One way to commemorate the occasion is to share inspirational quotes and messages that encourage and empower women.

International Women’s Day 2024: Quotes

1. “Even if I died in the service of the nation, I would be proud of it. Every drop of my blood… will contribute to the growth of this nation and to make it strong and dynamic.” –Indira Gandhi.
2. “I raise up my voice – not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard. … We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” –Malala Yousafzai.
3. “Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re strongest when we cheer each other on.” –Serena Williams.
4. “You never have to ask anyone permission to lead. When you want to lead, you lead.” –Kamala Harris.
5. “Gender diversity is not just good for women; it’s good for anyone who wants results.” –Melinda Gates.
6. “Strong men, men who are truly role models, don’t need to put down women to make themselves feel powerful.” –Michelle Obama.

Source: https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/international-womens-day-2024-inspirational-quotes-every-woman-should-read-8788216.html

Do you really need to take 10,000 steps a day to stay in good health? Although several studies have shown that you can likely stay healthy taking half as many steps, a new report finds 10,000 is still a good goal for certain people. Specifically, those who sit all day long.

A comprehensive study involving more than 72,000 individuals has unveiled that increasing daily step counts could reverse the adverse health effects associated with prolonged sitting.

Researchers from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Center reveal a compelling link between higher daily step counts and lower risk levels of mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Specifically, each additional step taken towards the 10,000 step-a-day mark correlated with a 39-percent reduction in death risk and a 21-percent decrease in the risk of cardiovascular diseases, irrespective of how much time was spent being sedentary.

This research stands out as it combines the observation of the benefits of higher daily steps with an objective analysis of sedentary behavior’s risks through the use of wrist-worn accelerometers. These devices provided a reliable measurement of the participants’ physical activity and sedentary time, setting this study apart from previous inquiries into the subject.

“This is by no means a get out of jail card for people who are sedentary for excessive periods of time, however, it does hold an important public health message that all movement matters and that people can and should try to offset the health consequences of unavoidable sedentary time by upping their daily step count,” says study lead author Dr. Matthew Ahmadi, a research fellow at University of Sydney, in a university release.

Highlighting the implications of this study for public health, researchers emphasized the value of step count as a clear and easily measurable physical activity metric.

“Step count is a tangible and easily understood measure of physical activity that can help people in the community, and indeed health professionals, accurately monitor physical activity,” notes study senior author Emmanuel Stamatakis, professor and director of the Mackenzie Wearables Research Hub at the Charles Perkins Center. “We hope this evidence will inform the first generation of device-based physical activity and sedentary behavior guidelines, which should include key recommendations on daily stepping.”

Source: https://studyfinds.org/10000-steps-daily-sitting/

Drinking two liters or more per week of artificially sweetened beverages — the equivalent of a medium-sized fast-food diet soda a day — raised the risk of an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation by 20% when compared to people who drank none, a new study found.

Known as A-fib, atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat often described by many people who have it as a “quiver,” “flutter” or “flip-flop” of the heart in the chest.

Drinking a similar number of added-sugar beverages raised the risk of the condition by 10%, while drinking about four ounces of pure, unsweetened juices, such as orange or vegetable juice, was associated with an 8% lower risk of atrial fibrillation, the study found.

“This is the first study to report an association between no- and low-calorie sweeteners and also sugar-sweetened beverages and increased risk of atrial fibrillation,” said Penny Kris-Etherton, a professor emeritus of nutritional sciences at the Pennsylvania State University, in a statement. She was not involved in the new study.

While the study could only show an association between sweetened drinks and A-fib, the relationship remained after accounting for any genetic susceptibility to the condition. A 2017 study found people with European ancestry had about a 22% risk of inheriting the condition.

“We still need more research on these beverages to confirm these findings and to fully understand all the health consequences on heart disease and other health conditions,” said Kris-Etherton, who is also an American Heart Association nutrition committee member.

“In the meantime, water is the best choice, and, based on this study, no- and low-calorie sweetened beverages should be limited or avoided,” she added.

Atrial fibrillation is dangerous and on the rise
Atrial fibrillation is the leading cause of stroke in the United States. In addition, strokes connected to A-fib tend to be “more severe than strokes with other underlying causes,” according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Atrial fibrillation can also lead to blood clots, heart failure and “can increase the risk for heart attack, for dementia, for kidney disease. All of those things are likely long term risks,” Dr. Gregory Marcus, professor of medicine at University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine and associate chief of cardiology for research at UCSF Health, told CNN in a prior interview.

Nearly 40 million people worldwide are living with atrial fibrillation, 6 million of those in the United States alone, according to the Heart Rhythm Society, who represents more than 7,000 specialists in cardiac rhythm disorders from more than 90 countries.

Many of those people suffer chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath and fatigue. But for others, A-fib is symptomless, a potentially silent killer. Once detected, however, the condition can be treated with medications, lifestyle changes and if necessary, surgeries to slow or restore the heart’s normal rhythm.

The rate of atrial fibrillation in the US population is growing: The CDC estimates some 12 million Americans will have A-fib by 2030.

“Age is one of the most important risk factors, so with the aging of the population it’s becoming more common,” Marcus said.

A caring mid adult female home healthcare nurse uses a stethoscope to check the heart and lungs on a senior female patient.

The epidemic of obesity is also contributing to the growing numbers, along with other risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, smoking and drinking alcohol.

“Previous research has shown high soft drink consumption to be association with increased risk of AF (atrial fibrillation),” said Naveed Sattar, a professor of metabolic medicine at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, in a statement. He was not involved in the new study.

“Risk of AF is well known to be associated with type 2 diabetes, binge drinking of alcohol (commonly called holiday heart) as well as illicit drug use (cocaine),” Sattar said.

Possible ‘additional health risks’
The study, published Tuesday in the journal Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology, analyzed data on nearly 202,000 people participating in a large, biomedical database called the UK Biobank. Followed for an average of 10 years, people in the analysis ranged in age from 37 to 73 years old, and more than half were female.

Higher consumers of artificially sweetened beverages were more likely to be female, younger, weigh more and have a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes, the study found. Those who drank more sugar-sweetened beverages were more likely to be male, younger, weigh more and have a higher prevalence of heart disease.

Mixed salty snacks. Flat lay table scene on a rustic wood background.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/03/05/health/diet-and-sugary-drinks-atrial-fibrillation-wellness/index.html

Coffee in the morning is a ritual for many people — but is it ever too early in the a.m. to indulge?

Brewing a cup or a pot of coffee as soon as you wake up might not give you the biggest energy boost throughout the day, according to sleep experts.

Dr. Deborah Lee, a U.K.-based doctor, said in a statement to Fox News Digital that drinking coffee first thing in the morning might not be the best bet.

“When you wake up, your stress hormone cortisol level, which is a hormone that enhances alertness and focus, as well as regulates your metabolism and immune system response, is at its peak,” said Lee, who works with bed manufacturer Get Laid Beds.

“Elevated levels of cortisol may impact your immune system, and if they’re already at their peak when waking up, drinking coffee as soon as your eyes open may do more harm than good, and may even make you immune to caffeine over a long period of time,” Lee added.

Cortisol follows a rhythm “specific to your own sleeping cycle,” the expert said, peaking within 30 to 45 minutes of waking up and slowly declining throughout the day.

“That explains why you may peak in the morning and get more tired at night,” she noted.

Taking this rhythm into consideration, Lee suggested that the best time to have caffeine would be at least 45 minutes after waking up, when “your cortisol rhythm starts to dip.”

“The best time to drink coffee would typically be mid-to-late morning, when your cortisol is a lot lower and you start to feel that energy slump,” she said.

“But of course, not too late in the afternoon — as it could affect your sleep.”

Someone who wakes up at around 7 a.m., for example, might wait until around 10 a.m. or noon to have the first cup of coffee, “when your body and mind will appreciate it the most, and you’ll get the most benefits from the caffeine,” Lee said.

A different take

Dr. Wendy Troxel, a Utah-based sleep expert and senior behavioral scientist at the RAND Corporation, had a different take on the matter. Delaying caffeine might not actually make a difference, she told Fox News Digital.

“There really is no scientific evidence that having caffeine first thing in the morning versus delaying it for a couple of hours after awakening has any differential effects on alertness,” she said.

Troxel suggested that coffee drinkers should experiment with what works best for them.

“For some people, waking up and having a glass of water to rehydrate and then having coffee works well — but for others, the morning ritual of having a cup of coffee first thing upon awakening is just too good to give up,” she said.

“So, I think it’s mostly a matter of personal preference.”

Since caffeine works by “blocking sleep-promoting receptors in your brain called adenosine receptors,” Lee said that people who drink coffee too late in the day may struggle to sleep at night.

“However, this is different for different people, and only you know your own caffeine tolerance,” she said.

The average half-life of caffeine is around six hours, according to Troxel, but it can remain in the body for up to 10 hours.

Source : https://www.foxnews.com/health/should-drink-coffee-first-thing-morning-wait-experts-caffeine-guidance

Trying to get the recommended amount of sleep is a nightmare for millions across the globe. In an awakening study, Australian researchers from Flinders University discovered that nearly one-third of adults worldwide are unable to get seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. Meanwhile, only 15 percent of people managed to sleep within the recommended range for five or more nights a week.

Even among those who did average seven to nine hours of sleep nightly over a nine-month period, about 40 percent of their sleep did not fall within this ideal range.

“This is crucial because regularly not sleeping enough — or possibly too much — are associated with ill effects and we are only just realizing the consequences of irregular sleep,” says study author Dr. Hannah Scott, a researcher at Flinders University, in a media release.

“Clearly getting the recommended sleep duration range frequently is a challenge for many people to achieve, especially during the working week.”

The study utilized data from sleep trackers placed under mattresses, analyzing the sleep durations of nearly 68,000 adults over nine months. The majority of the participants hailed from Europe and North America, providing a broad insight into sleep trends across these regions.

The findings also pointed to an association between sleeping less than six hours a night on average and an increased risk of mortality, alongside various health conditions such as hypertension, obesity, and heart disease. Conversely, sleeping less than seven or more than nine hours was linked to adverse health outcomes, including digestive and neuro-behavioral issues.

The study revealed gender and age-related sleep patterns, with female participants generally sleeping longer than males, and middle-aged individuals recording shorter sleep durations compared to younger or older people.

“Based on these findings, public health and advocacy efforts need to support the community and individuals to achieve more regular sleep within the recommended range for their age,” notes study co-author Danny Eckert, an Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) leadership fellow and director of Sleep Health research at Flinders University.

In addition to the findings on sleep duration, the study highlighted the relationship between regular snoring and hypertension, underscoring the myriad ways in which sleep quality and duration can impact overall health.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/adults-sleep-irregularity

SAN DIEGO — Who knew a Netflix binge or cushy desk job could be so hazardous? Researchers from the University of California-San Diego suggest that avoiding sedentary behavior (like sitting down all day) may be the secret to a longer life. Older women who sat for 11.7 hours or more daily saw their risk of death jump by 30 percent – even if they exercised vigorously!

It’s an alarming takeaway, but study co-author Steve Nguyen, a postdoctoral fellow at the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, used an impressive sample size for his work. His team examined time spent sitting and daily activity measurements collected from monitors worn for up to a week by 6,489 women (ages 63 to 99). Researchers also tracked the participants for eight years, monitoring if any of the women died.

That data was originally collected during a study led by Andrea LaCroix, Distinguished Professor at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health. It’s a larger long-term national project called the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), which began in 1991 and is still ongoing today. This report is the first ever to utilize a novel and validated machine-learned algorithm (called CHAP) in order to analyze the relationship connecting total sitting time and length of sedentary activity with the risk of premature death.

“Sedentary behavior is defined as any waking behavior involving sitting or reclining with low energy expenditure,” Nguyen says in a university release. “Previous techniques for calculating sedentary behavior used cut points that identified low or absent movement. The CHAP algorithm was developed using machine-learning, a type of artificial intelligence, that enhanced its ability to accurately distinguish between standing and sitting.”

Exercise ‘incapable’ of reversing the damage
Fine-tuning “sitting” helped Nguyen separate and better assess total sitting time and usual sitting bout durations. Sedentary behavior, in general, isn’t healthy because it lowers muscle contractions, blood flow, and glucose metabolism.

“When you’re sitting, the blood flow throughout your body slows down, decreasing glucose uptake. Your muscles aren’t contracting as much, so anything that requires oxygen consumption to move the muscles diminishes, and your pulse rate is low,” Prof. LaCroix explains.

Unfortunately, and rather surprisingly, exercise appears incapable of reversing these negative effects. According to researchers, whether women participated in low or even high amounts of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity ultimately proved inconsequential if paired with excessive sitting; all patterns of exercise showed the same heightened risk if they also sat for long hours.

“If I take a brisk long walk for an hour but sit the rest of the day, I’m still accruing all the negative effects on my metabolism,” Prof. LaCroix continues.

So, what can you do if you sit too long?

Notably, Nguyen also says that not all sitting is the same.

“Looking beyond conditions like cardiovascular disease, we start thinking about cognitive outcomes, including dementia,” the researcher explains. “There are cognitively stimulating activities that can result in sedentary behavior, like sitting while studying a new language. Is sedentary behavior in that context overall bad for a person? I think it’s hard to say.”

Nguyen recently received a National Institute of General Medical Sciences K99 award entailing 12 months of mentored research focusing on protein signatures tied to physical activity and how they relate to dementia. Prof. LaCroix, meanwhile, while sympathetic to the challenges of changing sedentary behavior once habits set in, also stresses that the modifications are frequently necessary.

“We’ve created this world in which it’s so fascinating to sit and do things. You can be engrossed by TV or scroll on your Instagram for hours. But sitting all the time isn’t the way we were meant to be as humans, and we could reverse all of that culturally just by not being so attracted to all the things that we do while sitting,” Prof. LaCroix concludes.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/sitting-all-day-early-death/

By now, most people know that the candies, chips, cakes, and sodas aren’t healthy. Now, new research is helping drive the point home. Solid evidence shows that exposure to ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased risk of 32 negative health outcomes, including cancer, mental health conditions, and early death.

Ultra-processed foods refer to sugary cereals, drinks, frozen TV dinners, and other foods that undergo heavy industrial processing and contain significant amounts of additives and preservatives. While it isn’t the case for all, most ultra-processed foods are typically low in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while packed with added sugar and excessive amounts of fat and salt. In Western nations, they can account for nearly 58 percent of daily energy intake. As some low to middle income nations continue to advance, the intake of these foods also has gone up.

So far, studies have continued to show that highly processed food are linked to poorer health outcomes, but there has been no comprehensive review that broadly assesses the current evidence. The researchers of this study conducted an evidence review of 45 pooled meta-analyses from 14 articles associating ultra-processed foods with adverse health outcomes. The analyzed reviews were published within the past three years and included nearly 10 million participants. None of the works received funding from companies linked to the production of ultra-processed foods.

The team obtained estimates of exposure to ultra-processed foods by using a combination of food frequency questionnaires, diet history, and 24-hour dietary recalls. The researchers then graded the evidence on a scale of “convincing,” “highly suggestive,” “suggestive,” “weak,” or “no evidence.” Quality of the evidence was assessed on a scale of high, moderate, low, or very low.

The “convincing evidence” reveals that higher exposure to ultra-processed foods was consistently linked to an increased risk of these 32 harmful outcomes. More specifically, there was a 50-percent increased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death, a 48 to 53-percent higher risk of anxiety and other common mental disorders, and a 12-percent heightened risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Meanwhile, the “highly suggestive evidence” shows that higher intake was associated with a 21-percent greater risk of death from any cause, a 40 to 60-percent increased risk of heart disease related death, obesity, sleep problems, and more. As far as asthma, gastrointestinal conditions, and certain cancers, the evidence isn’t as robust.

The team recognizes that the study design can only give an overview and doesn’t rule out the chance that confounding factors could affect the results. Still, the use of meticulous systematic methods to assess the quality and credibility of the analyses demonstrates that the results remain strong.

“These findings support urgent mechanistic research and public health actions that seek to target and minimize ultra-processed food consumption for improved population health,” the research team writes in a media release.

Additionally, they say that multidisciplinary investigations “are needed to identify the most effective ways to control and reduce ultra-processing and to quantify and track the cost-benefits and other effects of all such policies and actions on human health and welfare, society, culture, employment, and the environment.”

A Dietitian’s Take
It’s clear that what we eat impacts our health. There is a misconception that every food that comes in a box or can is ultra-processed and therefore drives disease, however that isn’t true.

Canned tuna and beans are examples of processed foods. However, foods that make up over 50 percent of the average American’s diet are ultra-processed foods like soft drinks, chips, chocolate, ice cream, sugary cereals, pizzas, chicken nuggets, and fries. This is what should be limited to help prevent chronic disease, such as those mentioned in this research.

Although there are some conditions with little research tying them to poor diet, there is mounting evidence linking the most prevalent diseases throughout the country, including hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. So, here’s some advice:

Source: https://studyfinds.org/ultra-processed-foods-30-health-problems/

While teens listening to loud music through their headphones may be a common sight, a new report reveals that more and more younger children are also beginning to use headphones and earbuds, putting them at risk for hearing problems at earlier ages.

According to the latest University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, two in three parents report that their elementary or middle school aged children (ages 5-12) use these devices on a regular basis. Moreover, the national poll also notes that half of these children use their headphones or earbuds for at least an hour a day.

Another one in six parents admit a normal day for their child includes at least two hours of use.

“Over recent years we’ve mostly been concerned about teens overusing audio devices. But earbuds have become increasingly popular and prevalent among younger kids, exposing them to more intense noise on a regular basis,” says Susan Woolford, M.D., M.P.H., Mott pediatrician and co-director of the Mott poll, in a media release.

“Noise exposure risks to young children have historically involved loud singular events like concerts or fireworks, but parents may underestimate the potential harm from excessive use of listening devices. It may be difficult to know whether their child’s exposure to noise is healthy.”

Kids are most likely to use personal audio devices at home, at school, or in the car. Roughly a fourth of parents note their kids occasionally use the devices on airplanes and less than 10 percent add their children use them on the bus, outside, or in bed.

Half of parents in the survey believe their kids use headphones and earbuds so often because the devices keep them entertained. The American Academy of Pediatrics, meanwhile, released a statement in 2023 stressing the need to lower noise risks among children.

Unfortunately, more and more evidence has appeared in recent years pointing to both children and teens using personal listening devices much more often. Dr. Woolford explains that prolonged or extreme exposure to high volumes of noise can potentially lead to long term health issues like hearing loss or tinnitus.

“Young children are more vulnerable to potential harm from noise exposure because their auditory systems are still developing. Their ear canals are also smaller than adults, intensifying perceived sound levels,” Dr. Woolford adds. “Tiny hair cells inside the inner ear pick up sound waves to help you hear. When these get damaged or die, hearing loss is irreversible.”

When kids experience tons of noise, it can also impact sleep, academic learning, language, stress levels and even blood pressure, researchers note. More parents of children between nine and 12 years-old report their children use headphones or earbuds than moms and dads raising five to eight-year-olds. Daily use was also more likely to be higher among older adolescents.

Interestingly, just half of parents say they’ve attempted to limit their child’s use of audio devices. Parents who have tried to do so cite strategies including asking the child to take a break, having set hours for use, and using a timer. Caregivers with a child using headphones for more than two hours daily are less likely to set any time or volume limitations in comparison to other parents reporting less headphone use among their kids.

Monitor volume levels

Monitoring and adjusting the volume and time spent on such devices can minimize the negative impact of audio device use. Dr. Woolford suggests the 60/60 rule: kids should have no more than one hour of audio device use daily at no more than 60 percent of the maximum volume. Sound levels on listening devices that are less than 70 dBA (relative loudness of decibels heard) are unlikely to result in noise-related damage.

Big abs could be bad for a man’s health. Body composition, which is typically defined as the amount of fat, bone, and muscle in the body, is a concept frequently used by health professionals in relation to heart health. However, researchers from the University of California-San Diego are challenging this, suggesting that more muscle doesn’t automatically mean a lower risk of heart problems.

Britta Larsen, PhD, explains that men with a larger abdominal muscle area have a greater risk of heart disease. As far as muscle density goes, the prognosis is much different. Men with the densest muscle within the abdominal cavity had nearly one quarter of the risk of heart disease later in life.

“And the other really important thing to note is that we didn’t find this with women. It was just in men,” says Larsen, the study’s lead author and associate professor in the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, in a media release.

The data comes from computed tomography of participants in the National Institutes of Health Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Study authors explored the thickening of the arteries starting in 2000, examining participants in their mid-60s recruited from around the country. Follow-up visits took place after 20 years. Larsen notes that her research group also followed each person’s medical records for 12 years.

The team found that the large-muscle group’s heart disease risk was nearly six times higher than the group of men with the smallest abdominal muscle area. The team wasn’t expecting to see such a strong correlation between increased muscle area and coronary heart disease.

“Muscle has been overlooked in health for a long time,” explains Larsen. “Researchers have really just focused on fat. But muscle is a large, active metabolic tissue, and it’s finally getting a little bit more attention.”

According to the researcher, the difference between muscle area and muscle density comes down to quantity versus quality.

“Density is a little bit trickier. It’s sort of our proxy measure of muscle quality,” Larsen adds. “It’s really a measure of how much fat has infiltrated the muscle cavity. Within the muscle itself, how much is pure muscle? And how much is fat content?”

Additionally, the team did not find a correlation between muscle and stroke in either men or women. For the research, coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease were distinguished because the latter includes a risk of stroke.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/big-abs-heart-disease-men/

I was born in Poland and grew up in Germany, but my family and I have been living in the Netherlands for the last 14 years.

When I first discovered the concept of “niksen,” or the Dutch art of doing nothing, I was fascinated. I even wrote a book about it. When I applied it to my own life, my perspective about happiness shifted in a significant way.

I believe niksen is one of the reasons why the Dutch are consistently ranked as some of the happiest people in the world. Niksen might seem selfish or boring at first glance, but it’s actually a service to you and your community.

Here’s how it make it work for you:

1. If you’re doing nothing, own it

When someone asks you what you’re doing during your niksen time, simply respond, “Nothing.”

Be unapologetic about taking breaks or holidays. Think of niksen not as a sign of laziness, but as an important life skill that might help you regain some composure, find calm, and prevent burnout.

Tony Crabbe, the author of “Busy,” says that resisting cultural pressures is easier when done with other niksen-minded people.

Or you can do what my mom does and hang a sign on your office door that reads: “I bite.” (She doesn’t bite, but it’s clear that she doesn’t want to be disturbed.)

2. Work and rest according to your natural rhythm

People have different chronotypes, which means they need to sleep and work at different times of the day to achieve maximum productivity. Some of us are at our best in the morning, while others feel the most productive in the afternoon.

“Every one of us should figure out when we’re at our most creative. Most productive. And niksen is part of this,” says Dutch psychoanalyst Manfred Kets de Vries. He suggests drawing a diagram like the one below:

Then look at your activities, tasks, and obligations and decide where they fit on the diagram.

3. Do nothing, together

I always thought of niksen as something you do alone in your home, by yourself. But those sweet nothing moments can become more special when they are shared.

For many parents, the best thing in the world can be reading to their children or playing with them. To me, it’s hugging. When I’m in a great mood, I’ll ask, “Who wants a hug?”

And if I’m lucky, at least one of my three kids will be willing to put their little arms around me and give me a cuddle. Sometimes, I’ll lie down with them on the floor and do nothing but put my arms around them.

When the kids are in bed, my husband and I often watch a TV series together. I’m usually snuggled into my husband because he is soft and warm, and I often think that the series is secondary. I’m simply niksening up against him.

Source : https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/24/the-netherlands-is-one-of-the-happiest-countries-in-the-worldwhat-they-do-differently-than-everyone-else.html

Many people have compared the addictive nature of social media to cigarettes. Checking your likes, they say, is the new smoke break. Others say the unease over social media is just the next round of moral panic about new technologies.

We are a pair of researchers who investigate how social media affects the mental health of young people. More than 75% of teens check their phone hourly, and half say they feel like they’re addicted to their devices.

Here are some of the things they’ve told us:

“TikTok has me in a chokehold.”

“I would 1,000% say I am addicted.”

“I feel completely aware that it is hijacking my brain, but I can’t put it down. This leaves me feeling ashamed.”

Maybe you’ve had similar feelings yourself, no matter your age. Although it’s true social technologies offer clear benefits – unlike smoking – many people still feel uncomfortable with how much time they spend online and often wonder if they’re addicted.

Years of investigation have led our team to this conclusion: Perhaps a better approach is to view your media consumption as a diet. Just as there are many ways to have a healthy diet, there are also a variety of ways to develop healthy and personalized social media habits.

The search for answers

A deluge of research on social media usage that began in the early 2010s shows negative impacts in areas related to body image, eating disorders and social comparison. Conversely, other studies point to the mental health benefits of social media, including social well-being, strong friendships and exposure to diverse perspectives.

Still other studies show conflicting results. In fact, inconclusive or mixed results seem to be a recurring pattern when researching this subject.

The inconsistencies in these studies highlight the very hard problem of characterizing healthy interaction between two complex systems – social media technologies and human behavioral psychology.

One issue is that the stress, anxiety and challenges to self-esteem experienced by users may vary from moment to moment, depending on what they are viewing. Consider that not all time spent on social media is equal. For example, messaging distant friends for one hour a day will likely leave you feeling more fulfilled than spending 30 minutes a day doomscrolling, which refers to an excessive amount of time consuming negative media.

That’s why researchers are trying to distinguish between the active and passive use of social media. “Active use” refers to social exchanges, like sending messages or posting content, while “passive use” is strictly the consumption of social media content without participation, contribution or engagement with others.

But even this distinction is too simplistic and has come under scrutiny. Some active behaviors, such as trolling on Reddit, are likely unhealthy for everyone involved. And some passive behaviors, like consuming educational videos, are beneficial.

Because healthy media consumption varies considerably from person to person, our research takes a different approach and focuses on users developing personal agency with respect to their media consumption.

Source : https://studyfinds.org/hijacking-brain-people-addicted-to-social-media-seek-help

In a little-known mountainous area called Hunza Valley, located far north of Pakistan, people seem to defy all medical odds.

It is primarily home to the Burusho and Wakhi people, who for centuries have survived and thrived in remote villages — with minimal amenities and rudimentary health facilities. Studies have found that the average life expectancy here is around 100 years.

My husband was born and raised here, and is from the Burusho indigenous community. After we got married, I left the U.S. and we settled down in the Central part of the valley.

Here are some intriguing habits that help the people of Hunza live longer:

1. They consume apricot seeds and oil

Apricot trees are one of the most important local crops in the valley. Studies have shown that apricot seeds can help fight cancer and other sources of inflammation in the body, in part due to a compound called amygdalin.

Nearly every traditional Hunzai dish includes apricot oil. Back in the day, it was made by hand, but now locals use machines to extract it from their harvested kernels.

My mother-in-law told me that 50 years ago, it was all anyone used to cook food with, even meat. Dried versions of the fruit also help with altitude sickness, and are boiled into a soup come winter.

2. They never stop moving

People here are healthy and active throughout their lives, well into old age. It’s very common to see folks in their 80s outside, even in the winter. Elderly family members still graze their cows and sheep, collect wood, and do other household tasks.

They also participate in community activities like “rajaki,” which involves cleaning out the elevated water canals when spring arrives.

Locals of all ages cycle, skate, and play sports like soccer and cricket every day.

3. They drink glacier water

Hunza is filled with dozens of glaciers, all of which melt throughout the summer.

A shiny, dark-grey liquid, “Hunza water” has long held the interest of scientists. Unlike other water sources, this glacial water is naturally filtered by layers of ice and rock and contains precious minerals.

Some argue that the water contains quartz (sillica) minerals in colloid form, which are considered to be powerful antioxidants.

The runoff generally lasts from May to October each year, which is when you’ll find it served at restaurants and in homes. Locals swear by it, and prefer it to filtered water.

4. They rarely eat processed foods

Almost every piece of meat eaten in Hunza comes from a locally sourced animal that’s been recently killed.

People rarely eat processed foods, and you certainly won’t find any fast food spots here. Meals are typically prepared fresh in the home daily, and almost every household grows some kind of vegetable.

Spinach is especially popular, and other favorites like tomatoes and potatoes are grown locally and organically.

Source : https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/17/people-in-remote-region-of-hunza-valley-live-to-100-years-old-heres-how.html

Miss World pageant returns to India for its 71st edition between February 18 and March 9 – Here’s everything you need to know about ‘Beauty With Purpose.’

71st Miss World Pageant: The Miss World Organization has announced that the 71st Miss World Festival will take place between February 18 and March 9, 2024, spanning some of the most stunning sites in India, just as excitement for the global extravaganza is building. A stunning lineup of Miss Worlds, including the current Miss World Karolina Bielawska and previous Miss World winners Toni Ann Singh, Vanessa Ponce De Leon, Manushi Chillar, and Stephanie Del Valle, came together for the first time to set the stage for the Grand Finale, marking a remarkable moment in the event’s history. The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) will host ‘The Opening Ceremony’ and ‘India Welcomes the World Gala’ at the majestic Hotel The Ashok in New Delhi on February 20th to kick off the 71st Miss World event.

The big finale, which will take place on March 9 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, is set to be an incredible event that will be broadcast on television and streamed globally. Renowned superstars will add even more glamour to the event with their outstanding performances during the majestic climax of this star-studded extravaganza unlike any other.

The 21-day Festival will feature a variety of events that will empower these young women as change agents and future leaders, all while adhering to its poignant theme of ‘Beauty with a Purpose.; Each competitor will have a special media channel on the Miss World.com website where they may showcase their skills and compete for a spot among the top 20.

Source : https://www.india.com/lifestyle/india-to-host-71st-miss-world-pageant-check-date-time-venue-and-other-details-6716267

If it fetches that asking price, the roughly 9-acre compound in Naples, Fla., would shatter the U.S. home sale record

Financier John Donahue was flying above Naples, Fla., in the 1980s when, according to family lore, he spotted an uninhabited piece of land along the Gulf of Mexico. He pointed to the tip of a peninsula known as Gordon Pointe and told his wife, Rhodora Donahue, “I want to go there.”

That’s just what he did, paying $1 million in 1985 for a roughly 4.3-acre parcel with nothing on it but a small fishing cottage surrounded by mangroves.

Over the next decade, the Donahues amassed roughly 60 acres, where they built a beachfront retreat for themselves and their burgeoning family of 13 children and 84 grandchildren, according to their son Bill Donahue.

Now, after John and Rhodora’s deaths, the family is listing the crown jewel of the estate—a roughly 9-acre compound in Naples’ Port Royal neighborhood with three houses and a private yacht basin—for a potentially record-setting $295 million.

With about 1,650 feet of waterfront, the property is the highest-priced listing in the U.S., and would set a record for the most expensive residential sale in the country if it fetches close to its asking price, according to Dawn McKenna of Coldwell Banker Realty, who is marketing the property with Leighton Candler of the Corcoran Group and Rory McMullen of Savills.

A Pittsburgh native, John Donahue graduated from West Point in 1946 and served in what is now the Air Force until 1950, when he enrolled in a Forbes magazine stock-market correspondence course. In 1955, with two high school buddies, he started the Pittsburgh-based investment-management firm Federated Investors. Now known as Federated Hermes, the company is run by Donahue’s son J. Christopher Donahue and manages $668.9 billion in assets, according to its website.

Source: https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/luxury-homes/americas-most-expensive-home-for-sale-naples-florida-81535a6b?reflink=integratedwebview_share

Maintaining a healthy heart might be the secret to staying young, according to a new study. Researchers working with the American Heart Association discovered that following the AHA’s “Life’s Essential 8” checklist could help someone slow their aging by as much as six years.

The study’s focus is on how a healthy heart might keep our bodies feeling and functioning younger than our actual chronological age. Researchers used the checklist to measure heart and brain health during their experiments. This checklist factors in lifestyle choices and health measures like sleep, diet, and blood pressure to gauge an individual’s cardiovascular well-being.

Specifically, the Life’s Essential 8 checklist includes:

1. Eat Better
2. Be More Active
3. Quit Tobacco
4. Get Healthy Sleep
5. Manage Weight
6. Control Cholesterol
7. Manage Blood Sugar
8. Manage Blood Pressure

Biological age, in this context, is determined by something called phenotypic age, a concept that goes beyond the traditional calendar to assess our body’s true wear and tear. Phenotypic age is calculated by adding up your chronological age (how old you are according to your birth date) with the results of nine different blood tests that check various markers like sugar levels, inflammation, and kidney function. When someone’s phenotypic age is higher than their actual age, it suggests that their body is aging faster biologically.

“We found that higher cardiovascular health is associated with decelerated biological aging, as measured by phenotypic age. We also found a dose-dependent association – as heart health goes up, biological aging goes down,” says study senior author Nour Makarem, Ph.D., an assistant professor of epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, in a media release. “Phenotypic age is a practical tool to assess our body’s biological aging process and a strong predictor of future risk of disease and death.”

The research team discovered that people with better heart health had a younger biological age compared to those with poor heart health. For instance, people with high cardiovascular health had an average chronological age of 41 but their bodies appeared to be 36 years-old biologically. On the flip side, individuals with low cardiovascular health were, on average, 53 years-old but had a biological age of 57.

Adjusting for socioeconomic and demographic differences, the researchers noted that the best scores on the Life’s Essential 8 checklist correlated with a biological age that was, on average, six years younger than the actual age.

The study underscores the benefits of following the Life’s Essential 8 guidelines which include a balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking, among other things.

“Greater adherence to all Life’s Essential 8 metrics and improving your cardiovascular health can slow down your body’s aging process and have a lot of benefits down the line. Reduced biologic aging is not just associated with lower risk of chronic disease such as heart disease, it is also associated with longer life and lower risk of death,” Makarem says.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/8-healthy-habits-slows-down-aging/

When heading off for a night’s slumber, does your pet follow? Perhaps the cat curls up at the end of your bed. Maybe the dog dives under the duvet or pops their head on your pillow. Alternatively, your pet might have their own devoted sleeping space. But if you do share your bed with Fluffy or Fido, what does science suggest is best practice?

Pets increasingly have new roles and expectations in society. Dogs, cats and a multitude of other companion animal species have become family members, a role far removed from their original purposes as protectors, hunting partners, pest exterminators and in some cases, food sources.

Owners now spend much more time in close contact with their pets, which confers many benefits. Positive associations with pets are linked with improved health, social contact, physical activity, and decreased perceptions of loneliness.

While people typically share living spaces with their pets, sharing beds is a much more intimate proposition. Nevertheless, research shows that of the estimated 90 million European households who own a least one pet, 45% of dogs and 60% of cats are allowed on the bed – and 18% of dogs and 30% of cats sleep with their owner inside the covers.

While it might be enjoyable and relaxing to share resting time with your pet, it could come with risks to pet and human health, not to mention impacts on sleep hygiene and human relationships too.

Disturbed Sleep

One challenge of sharing your bed with your pet could be disturbed sleep. The movement of sleeping partners (two or four-legged) may lead to reduced sleep efficiency, although a bed large enough to accommodate all can mitigate this.

Encouraging your pet to sleep elsewhere, but within the bedroom could also be beneficial if sleep disturbance is affecting your well-being. Our pets also need quality sleep, so their own sleeping space might be good for them too.

But shared sleeping areas can have positives. Many owners like to sleep with their pets, who can offer companionship, security and even warmth. More than 80% of dogs examined in studies preferred to be close to people at night, suggesting a mutual benefit. Different species of pets also appear to spend time resting together, so if you have a multi-pet household, all might enjoy shared sleeping.

Bed bugs

Pets sometimes bring unwanted guests into our homes such as fleas, ticks, mites and lice. These ectoparasites might hop from our pets to us and either cause transient or more prolonged irritation. In extreme cases, they can transmit other, potentially serious diseases such as plague or “cat scratch disease”, an infection caused by bacteria in cat saliva.

Pets often also harbor internal parasites such as the roundworm Toxocara canis – a parasite that affects both cats and dogs – some of which can be passed to humans, resulting in illness. Microscopic eggs that can cause infection can be carried on the fur of our pets and close contact increases the potential of spread between pets and people.

The potential for other disease-causing organisms including bacteria, viruses and fungi to spread between our pets and us is also of concern, especially antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as MRSA. Indeed, we can even share infections with our pets – including COVID-19 – so it’s not all one-sided.

Allergies and injuries

Sharing intimate contact with pets does raise the potential for increasing allergic responses or injury risk. Minor, unintentional injuries such as scratches can occur. Contact with dust and dander from pet hair can be prolonged when in close proximity. This material can also accumulate in the environment, potentially increasing the risk of allergic reactions.

Less than a fifth of millennials, specifically those between 26 and 35, are certain that they want to become parents one day. This inclination further diminishes among individuals with pronounced environmental concerns. Simply put, four in five young millennials want to remain childless, especially if they dwell on climate change concerns.

The study, conducted by the University of Southampton and the Generations and Gender Program, gathered insights on attitudes toward children, family, and various political issues. It involved a sample of 7,000 individuals ranging from 18 to 59 years-old in the U.K.

The findings revealed a correlation with the nation’s declining birth rates, highlighting a drop in the number of young adults planning to have children. Only 19 percent of younger millennials expressed a definitive desire to have children, while 30 percent leaned towards probably wanting children. Among older millennials, between 36 and 41, 36 percent were certain they will not have children, and 20 percent were leaning towards not having them.

The percentage of millennials who are disinclined to have children increases among those with stronger environmental concerns. However, the trend appears different for Generation Z — ages 18 to 24. Data shows that those in this age group who are more likely to desire children are also more concerned about environmental and climate issues.

“Whilst we found that environmental concerns are a factor for older millennials intending to remain childless, our study suggests this isn’t the case for Gen Z,” says Professor Brienna Perelli-Harris, from the University of Southampton who led the UK Generations and Gender Survey, in a media release.

“This may be because some younger people do not intend to have children for other reasons, or it could be that Gen Zers who would like to have children are more worried about the planet that their children will inherit.”

The study also highlights a declining trend in the desire for children among Generation Z, compared to previous generations. Specifically, 15 percent of Generation Z respondents stated a definite lack of interest in having children. This contrasts with the 10 to 15 percent of individuals of the same age group who expressed similar sentiments between 2005 and 2007.

Additionally, 11 percent of Generation Z participants indicated they probably will not have children, and 22 percent were uncertain about it. According to the study, these findings suggest that birth rates in the U.K. may continue to decrease.

“More young adults planning to remain childless suggests the recent decline in fertility rates at young ages isn’t just about individuals delaying parenthood until they are older,” Prof. Perelli-Harris says, according to SWNS.

“Instead, it suggests a growing trend of individuals intending not to have children. If this is the case, then we can expect UK birth rates to decline further from their current level.”

The study also delves into a significant challenge for those who choose to have children: the high cost of childcare.

Researchers found that parents typically spend an average of $711 per month on childcare. A quarter of these parents pay over $1,016, and 15 percent spend more than $1,270.

For lower-income households, childcare expenses account for a substantial 20 to 30 percent of their income. This is a larger proportion compared to higher-income households, which allocate around 10 percent of their salary to childcare.

The survey also uncovered varied childcare approaches among parents. About a fifth exclusively utilize formal childcare options, such as nurseries. In contrast, a quarter depend solely on assistance from parents, relatives, or friends.

Notably, a third of parents do not use any formal childcare, a trend most prevalent among the lowest income groups. Families with higher incomes are more inclined to use formal childcare exclusively. Meanwhile, middle-income families tend to rely on a mix of both formal and informal childcare solutions.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/childless-millennials-parents/

Caffeine is the most consumed psychoactive compound in the world. Even if you don’t drink coffee or tea, you probably still regularly consume caffeine since it’s found in everything from soft drinks and cold remedies to decaf coffee and chocolate.

When caffeine is consumed, it’s rapidly absorbed by the body – reaching peak effects within two hours (though it may take up to nine hours to leave your body). It’s also water and fat-soluble, so it gets into all body tissues, which explains why caffeine can affect many different parts of the body.

It’s recommended that adults consume no more than 400mg of caffeine a day (approximately four cups of coffee). More than this may lead to muscle tremors, nausea, headaches, pounding heart and even death (in extreme cases).

But even people who only consume a couple cups of coffee or tea daily may feel it still has adverse effects – such as irritability, difficulty falling asleep and feeling jittery. This is why a growing number of people are deciding to give up caffeine.

If you’re thinking about giving up caffeine and are wondering what benefits it may have, here’s what the research says:

Brain function
Caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches, fatigue and tiredness. This is because the body develops a tolerance to caffeine.

Caffeine binds to a receptor in the brain used by adenosine. The binding of caffeine to these receptors causes the body to delay the onset of fatigue. But over time the brain cells produce more adenosine receptors to enable normal adenosine binding to happen.

So, when you stop consuming caffeine, there are excess adenosine receptors to bind to. This allows fatigue and tiredness to kick in as normal, with the person feeling more tired than before.

Headaches happens as a result of the absence of caffeine. In the head and neck, caffeine causes the blood vessels to narrow, reducing blood flow to the brain. When you stop drinking caffeine, after approximately 24 hours it causes the blood vessels to return to normal, causing an increase in blood flow to the brain and triggering headaches. They may last up to 9 days on average.

And because caffeine binds to adenosine receptors (which also modulate pain) quitting caffeine may temporarily increase your perception and sensitivity to pain because there’s more receptors available.

Caffeine really only affects sleep when consumed in the late afternoon and evenings. This is because caffeine delays the release of melatonin (a hormone which makes us tired) by 40 minutes. Caffeine also reduces the overall time you sleep and shortens the period of deep sleep.

This can increase your tiredness the next day, leading to cycle of using caffeine to wake you up but having trouble sleeping later on as a result. When you stop caffeine, you may find your sleep improves. Some evidence suggests improvements are seen in as little as 12 hours.

Caffeine has also been linked to increased anxiety and panic attacks – and not just in those with a pre-disposition to mental health issues. Reducing or eliminating caffeine may improve your mood. This may partly be because it improves sleep. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate anxiety and other mood disorders.

But the adenosine receptors that caffeine bind to are also involved in the modulation of other neurotransmitters that have a role in stress, happiness and fear.

Cardiovascular health
Reducing or eliminating caffeine might also cure heartburn and indigestion. Caffeine induces acid secretion in the stomach and weakens the oesophageal sphincter, which controls reflux of stomach contents up the oesophagus – triggering heartburn and indigestion.

Quitting caffeine may also lower your blood pressure and reduce your heart rate – although other studies have shown little change.

This is because if someone consumes caffeine daily for many years, their body adapts to the exposure – and it becomes the new norm with its stimulant effects on the nervous system, bowels and heart.

There also appears to be genetic component to caffeine tolerance and metabolism. This could mean some people are more affected by caffeine over others – though more research is needed on this link.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/break-the-grind-find-your-flow-why-ditching-caffeine-might-be-best-for-health/

Siggi’s Dairy is offering a prize of $10,000 if you’re willing to give up your smartphone for one month.

The New York-based company, which is known for selling an Icelandic yogurt called skyr, announced the contest on Wednesday.

“We’re introducing a NEW kind of ‘Dry January’ this year,” the company’s website read. “Instead of abstaining from alcohol for a month, we challenge you to ditch your smartphone!”

“We believe in the power of living a simpler life with fewer distractions. One of the biggest distractions in our lives today is our phone,” Siggi’s added.

Ten participants will be selected based on the essays they submit to Siggi’s. To make sure the contest entrants don’t use their smartphones, Siggi’s will send participants a lockbox and a flip-phone with a one-month prepaid SIM card.

In the end, the 10 participants could walk away with $10,000 and 60 cups of Siggi’s yogurt.

Kristina Drociak, Siggi’s director of PR and digital strategy, told FOX Business that the contest was inspired by the idea of digital detoxing.

“At Siggi’s, we believe in simplicity and that less is what truly sets you free,” she said. “Our brand ethos is all about stripping away the unnecessary, and just like fewer ingredients in yogurt, we believe fewer digital distractions can make for a more satisfying life.”

“We recognize the increasing screen time and phone usage in our society and the negative effects this can have, which inspired us to launch Siggi’s Digital Detox Program for this new year,” Drociak added.

“The goal of the program is to show people the benefits of going digital-free in hopes that this can start new healthy habits in 2024 and beyond.”

Source: https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/ditch-cell-phone-entire-month-company-pay-thousands-if-you-do

‘You don’t have to love your body to be kind to it.’ – Alissa Rumsey

Body positivity is a major topic of conversation these days. From social media to commercials on TV, there has been a growing effort to push a more inclusive image of the human body. While the concept of accepting our individual flaws is a generally positive idea, when does it go too far and start endangering your health? From a medical standpoint, the line should be drawn at embracing obesity — because the condition can lead to life-long health problems if left untreated.

Body positivity is about how our perception of body image (our own and others) shapes our concept of self, mental health, well-being, and relationships. It refers to how you feel about your own appearance, and how you feel about your height, weight, and shape.

Moreover, the term body positivity describes a mindset that the shape or size of someone’s body does not determine their worthiness of love. It challenges the roles of cultural, social, and media influences in the development of our relationship with our body, ourselves, and how we perceive others. Body positivity can also refer to cultivating confidence and self-love, and appreciating your body for all that it can do, despite its flaws. It’s about inclusivity and acceptance of all physical traits.

If the goal of body positivity is to encourage the media to present images of “real” people, rather than idealized images, the movement is succeeding. It’s my unscientific observation that more television ads and programming, as well as print media, feature more overweight models and actors.

When does body positivity cross a line into harmful self-indulgence?
Weight is just one aspect of body positivity, but let’s use it to examine the movement.

For children and adolescents between two and 19 years-old, almost 20 percent are obese – that’s about 15 million kids. The older the child, the higher obesity rates rise.

It’s 12.7 percent among kids two to five, and 22.2 percent and children 12 to 19. About 26 percent of Hispanic children are obese, as are 25 percent of Black children in this age group.

We are seeing diseases in these young people which previously were seen almost exclusively in adults. This includes cases of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, gall bladder disease, sleep apnea, and joint problems. There is more obesity in proportion to decreasing education among parents and lower household incomes.

Obesity in children is associated with:

• Psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression
• Lesser self-esteem
• Lesser quality of life
• Bullying and stigmatization
• Obesity in adulthood

Obesity in adults is associated with:

• Increases in all causes of death
• High blood pressure
• Higher LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol), lower HDL (‘good’ cholesterol)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Coronary heart disease
• Joint problems
• Sleep apnea
• Increases in many types of cancer
• Lesser quality of life
• Mental illness
• Generalized body pain
• Poor physical conditioning

These negative consequences are increasing in frequency as the incidence of overweight and obesity in our culture, while the body positivity movement gains attention.

Body positivity purports loving your body. You care for what you love. Does that make being overweight, or self-indulgence, body negativity? Let’s just get rid of the positive vs. negative and replace them with wellness.

How Can You Practice ‘Body Wellness’?
There are several ways to discover what “being healthy” means to you – physically, mentally, and emotionally. This includes cultivating a realistic perception of your body, including its flaws.

1. Practice positive self-talk: It can increase your confidence and self-esteem. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations and focus on your strengths. Use statements such as “I am courageous,” and “My body is capable of great things.” You can put these on sticky notes and post them on your bathroom mirror.

2. Seek out community: Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you. Join online communities or groups that promote body positivity and self-love.

3. Add more physical activity: Move in ways that make your body feel good, such as yoga, dancing, or walking. Focus on how your body feels during these activities, rather than how it looks.

4. Write a gratitude list: List things about your body and yourself you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus from negative thoughts to positive ones.

5. Nourish yourself with nutrient-rich food: Eat whole foods that make you feel good and provide energy. Avoid restrictive diets.

6. Wear clothing that builds confidence: Be comfortable, and bold with color. Don’t worry about following fashion trends or certain sizes.

7. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same compassion and love you would show to a friend.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/body-positivity-obesity/

Americans have been leaving big cities in droves in recent years, and now a new study is giving older adults another reason to move. Scientists from Washington State University have found that even small, seemingly insignificant, differences in the availability of green and blue spaces across urban areas may contribute to improved mental and physical health. In other words, the more nature near your home, the better you’ll likely feel.

Study authors found that just 10 percent more forest space in a person’s residential ZIP code contributes to a reduction in serious psychological distress, which refers to mental health problems that require treatment and may interfere with one’s social life, work, or school. Meanwhile, another 10 percent increase in green space, tree cover, water, or nature trails also appeared to lower the odds that older individuals reported their general health as either poor or fair.

“Our findings suggest that loss of our urban green and blue spaces due to rapid urbanization may not just have an environmental impact but could have a public health impact as well,” says first study author Adithya Vegaraju, a medical student in the WSU Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, in a university release.

These findings are based on health survey data collected from over 42,000 people 65 and older who lived in urban regions of Washington state between 2011 and 2019. During the analysis, researchers compared each person’s general and mental health to various measures that reveal their access to green and blue spaces within their residential ZIP codes. While close to two percent of the participants displayed signs of serious psychological distress, 19 percent reported dealing with fair or poor general health.

This work focused solely on the relationship between serious psychological distress and distance to the closest green and blue space. However, the final report expanded the scope of the study by adding several additional measures, such as the percentage of green space, tree canopy, forest area, and open space within ZIP codes in addition to the length of trails. Researchers were also sure to expand their analyses to include how each measure related to self-rated general health. This also helped account for differences in survey respondents’ demographics (race, education level, etc).

While prior projects have analyzed how proximity to nature might impact health, Vegaraju believes this study is among the first ever to assess this relationship in older U.S. adults. Older individuals are especially vulnerable to mental health issues such as depression, which can also increase one’s risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Older adults are also generally less likely to undergo treatment for mental health conditions.

“Older adults with depression, anxiety or mental health issues are known to be more resistant to medical interventions or talk therapy, which are the go-to treatments for these conditions,” Vegaraju explains. “If exposure to green or blue spaces could help prevent, delay or even treat poor mental health in older adults, we need to look at that more closely as a way to improve mental health outcomes in this population.”

Researchers believe a potential solution may be nature prescriptions, which is a growing trend in healthcare that involves doctors giving patients written recommendations to spend time outdoors.

Senior study author Solmaz Amiri adds more research is necessary to understand exactly how exposure to green and blue spaces promotes better mental and general health. Moving forward, she wants to study the possible link between nature exposure and cognitive decline, which is often an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/living-closer-nature-older-adults/

The honeymoon is over for the longtime Honeymoon Capital of the World — several disillusioned globetrotters took to Reddit last week to rate Dubai, Niagara Falls, Disney World and other surprising locations as overhyped travel destinations.

The list comes as US airports completed their busiest travel season in years.

AAA had predicted that 115.2 million travelers would hit the road or take flight for the holidays.

Many of them likely visited the tourist traps that made Reddit’s no-fly list.

Dubai

The so-called City of Gold seems to be an Arabian nightmare for Redditors who ranked it the No. 1 most overrated destination with 10,000 upvotes on the forum.

“Dubai has always sounded like a holiday in materialistic hell,” sniped one. Another griped, “It sucks so bad, there is nothing to do and no culture. Unless you like gaudy designer bulls—t or laying by the pool.”

Even former expatriates expressed distaste for the allegedly Disneyfied Middle Eastern metropolis.

“I worked there for years and looked behind the fancy veneer,” wrote one. “Dubai has nothing by my abject contempt. It’s deplorable.”

Like a naturally beautiful celeb tarnished by plastic surgery, some argued that Dubai has transformed from a dream desert destination to a soulless labyrinth of commercialism.

“It was a beautiful place with nomadic tribes and culture,” lamented one Redditor. “Now it’s a shopping hellhole.”

This alleged materialism is perhaps best personified by Linda Andrade, a Dubai millionaire’s wife who frequently flaunts her conspicuous adventures on TikTok.

Those include enjoying a luxurious 24-k gold cup of coffee and having her hubby light up the Burj Khalifa skyscraper with a birthday message.

Others insisted that Dubai bashing has become trendy and is not reflective of the locale.

“Dubai gets s—t on harder than any other travel destination on Reddit (maybe with the exception of Cairo),” one defender declared. “It’s always at or near the top of threads like these. Honestly though? I thought it was completely fine.”

The poster added, “It’s one of those places where you have to have the appropriate expectations. Dubai is NOT the place to go if you’re interested in culture and history. But it can be a fun destination if you want to go dune bashing, sit on a beach or if you’re into futuristic-looking architecture.”

Disney World

Another universally reviled destination on Reddit? Disney World. Some believe the House of Mouse has become far too expensive and congested to deserve the moniker “Most Magical Place on Earth.”

“You turn into a human cash dispenser the moment you step foot in those parks,” rued one Redditor.

“Disney is and always has been a pretty cool experience,” wrote another. “But reduced staffing and increased cost overshadows the magic these days unfortunately.”

“I had to wait in line just to type this,” quipped one Reddit wit.

After its stock price hit a nine-year low last year, Disney hiked admission prices at its Florida and California theme parks by as much as 10%.

Some Disney buffs claim that VIP is the only way to go when making a pilgrimage.

“Disney World is pay to win. I got a $10,000 bonus at work one year and went. I paid for the nice hotel that gets early park access and you can walk to the parks,” one recalled. “Gets you on rides with short lines. Also paid for the enhanced dining stuff, several optional fun stuff (like light saber building) and paid for the line skipper. It was a very different experience than just showing up 2-3 hrs after the park opens and planning to wait in line.”

“I agree. You kind of need to go big if you go at all. You can’t just show up and buy a ticket anymore,” seconded another.

Niagara Falls

Redditors don’t seem to want to go chasin’ waterfalls.

“Niagara Falls, NY is NOT a nice place,” declared one critic.

Another wrote, “As someone from western New York, the city of Niagara Falls is the victim of boom and bust tourism economy, corruption in the local and state governments over decades. The unfortunate reality is that the city is left behind to pick up the pieces.”

Cataract City was recently ranked the 44th most dangerous city in the US — up five places from last year.

Some feel that tourists are better served experiencing the falls from our neighbor to the north.

“The State Park is great, but yeah that’s about the only thing worth seeing on that side of the Falls,” said one. “We always stay on the Canadian side.”

Another wrote, “The Canadian side is the one with the views. The American side is just kind of a sad decaying town.”

Source : https://nypost.com/2024/01/03/lifestyle/dubai-niagara-falls-disney-world-named-overrated-travel-spots

Can the keto diet cure epilepsy in children? Scientists from UCLA believe so. A new study is revealing how the high-fat, low-carb diet, typically known for weight loss, may also benefit children with epilepsy. This diet has shown promise in controlling seizures, especially in kids who don’t respond well to traditional anti-seizure medications.

The study delves into the diet’s effect on the human gut microbiome. The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms residing in the digestive tract. UCLA researchers found that this diet brings about changes in these microorganisms that could protect against seizures, at least in mice.

“Understanding how the function of the microbiome is altered by the diet could aid in the development of new therapeutic approaches that incorporate these beneficial changes while avoiding certain drawbacks of the diet,” says study lead author Gregory Lum, a postdoctoral researcher at UCLA, in a university release.

The research builds on previous findings, which showed that mice bred to mimic epilepsy and fed a ketogenic diet experienced fewer seizures than those on a standard diet. Extending this, Lum examined how the gut microbiome is beneficially altered in children with epilepsy who start ketogenic diet therapy. By transplanting fecal samples from pediatric epilepsy patients on the diet into mice, the study observed that the diet-associated gut microbiota protected the mice against seizures.

The fecal samples were collected from 10 pediatric epilepsy patients, part of UCLA’s Ketogenic Diet Therapy Program, who hadn’t responded to anti-seizure medication. The samples were taken before and after a month on the diet.

Results showed that mice receiving post-diet fecal transplants were more resistant to seizures than those given pre-diet transplants. The study also noted that the ketogenic diet altered key gut microbiome functions in pediatric patients related to fatty acid oxidation and amino acid metabolism. These changes, crucially, were preserved when the fecal matter was transplanted into the mice.

While more research is necessary, Lum expressed optimism about the study’s implications.

“Narrowing down the functions of the microbes that are beneficial toward seizure protection can potentially lead to new ways to enhance the efficacy of the ketogenic diet or to mimic its beneficial effects,” notes Lum.

The study is published in the journal Cell Reports.

5 Potential Benefits of the Keto Diet:

1. Weight Loss: One of the most well-known benefits of the keto diet is its effectiveness in helping people lose weight. By reducing carbohydrate intake, the body enters a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of glucose, leading to weight loss.
2. Improved Blood Sugar Control: For people with Type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing it, the keto diet can improve blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, due to the low intake of carbs.
3. Enhanced Brain Function: Some studies suggest that the keto diet may have neuroprotective effects, potentially improving cognitive function and possibly slowing the progression of neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s.
4. Improved Heart Health: When followed correctly, the keto diet can lead to a reduction in bad cholesterol (LDL) and an increase in good cholesterol (HDL), potentially lowering the risk of heart disease.
5. Potentially Cancer-Fighting: Early research indicates that the keto diet may have anti-tumor effects and could complement traditional cancer treatments, although more research is needed in this area.

What if the best way to treat your chronic back pain is by retraining your brain?

That’s the premise of a novel approach to chronic pain. Many people feel pain even after a physical injury has healed or when doctors can’t find a physical cause. The approach, called “pain reprocessing therapy,” tries to train the brain not to send false pain signals. Some early results are promising.

In a study published last year in JAMA Psychiatry, 66% of a group of people who did the therapy for a month were pain-free or nearly pain-free up to a year later.

The treatment is still largely in the research stages and typically not covered by insurance, but is being performed in a growing number of centers, including the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System, which plans to start two clinical trials of the technique next year.

“Most physicians are taught in medical school that pain is biomechanical in nature,” says Alan Gordon, founder of the Pain Psychology Center in Los Angeles, who conducted many of the PRT treatments for the patients in the JAMA study. “This idea that the brain could… actually misinterpret the signals from the body as dangerous when they’re not is relatively new.”

A search for new approaches

Doctors and researchers have long been on a quest for effective treatments for chronic pain. Chronic back pain in particular is notoriously difficult to treat and experienced by millions of Americans. With doctors more wary of prescribing opioids, patients often now cycle through physical therapy, steroid injections and acupuncture, with surgery sometimes used as a last resort.

Some patients use techniques borrowed from mental-health therapy to try to manage pain symptoms, but researchers hope pain reprocessing therapy can go a step further by actually eliminating pain caused by off-kilter brain signals.

Source: https://www.wsj.com/health/wellness/chronic-back-pain-reprocessing-therapy-treatment-54d1e141?reflink=integratedwebview_share

The secret to a happy life? SLEEP! Going to bed just one hour later than usual is enough to make you miserable, study suggests

Getting less sleep than usual makes people feel less positive and happy
Researchers looked at 154 studies that spanned more than 50 years

Staying up too late could make you feel less enthusiastic about life the next day, even if you only lose an hour of sleep.

Getting less sleep than usual, regardless of the number of hours, makes people feel less positive and happy, a scientific review has found.

Researchers looked at 154 studies, spanning more than 50 years, and including more than 5,000 people aged seven to 79, on sleep deprivation.

Sleep restriction, where people got less sleep than normal, was found to significantly reduce their positive feelings, like enthusiasm and happiness.

People’s positive emotions appeared to take the biggest hit if they got four hours less sleep than normal – but they felt less positive from any reduction in sleep at all.

Source : https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-12889817/The-secret-happy-life-SLEEP-Going-bed-just-one-hour-later-usual-make-miserable-study-suggests.html?ito=native_share_article-top

Nicolas Puech has allegedly already initiated the adoption process with the gardener

Nicolas Puech, the 80-year-old heir to the French luxury brand Hermès fortune, is reportedly planning to distribute his wealth to his 51-year-old gardener, who he also intends to legally adopt.

According to Swiss publication Tribune de Genève, cited by the New York Post, the heir of the luxury brand is planning to pass his wealth to his “former gardener and handyman” from a “modest Moroccan family.”

Puech, who has allegedly already initiated the adoption process with the gardener, hopes to pass down billions of dollars of the Hermès fortune since he is unmarried and has no children of his own.

Puech, the fifth-generation descendant of Thierry Hermès, stands to pass down billions of dollars of the Hermès fortune, currently valued at over $220 billion.

Puech reportedly owns between 5% and 6% of the house, which puts his net worth between $10-11 billion.

Puech also hopes to pass down $5.9 million in properties in Marrakesh, Morocco, and Montreux, Switzerland.

The Swiss publication reported that he could pass on half of his inheritance to his former gardener.

The gardener is reportedly married to a woman from Spain and has two children.

Source: https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/hermes-heir-plans-give-seven-billion-dollar-fortune-gardener

HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2023: The world observes Human Rights Day every year on December 10. This year marks the 75th anniversary of this important day, which aims at promoting and celebrating the fundamental rights and freedoms every individual is entitled to, regardless of their gender, nationality, race, religion, or background.

Human Rights Day History
Human Rights Day traces its roots to the year 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This document, comprising 30 articles, served as a landmark commitment to safeguarding the inherent dignity and equal rights of all human beings. The formal recognition and celebration of Human Rights Day began in 1950 with the adoption of resolution 423 (V) by the UN General Assembly, designating December 10 as an annual day of observance.

The UDHR, though not legally binding, has inspired over 60 human rights instruments, creating an international framework for the protection and promotion of human rights.

Human Rights Day Significance
The aftermath of world war two underscored the need for a global commitment to human rights. The UDHR emerged as a beacon of hope and justice, emphasizing that human rights are not a privilege but a universal entitlement.

The UDHR, with its comprehensive articulation of fundamental rights and freedoms, serves as a compass guiding nations toward meeting the basic needs of their citizens, whether they be of a socioeconomic or political nature.

Human Rights Day 2023 Theme

The theme for the 2023 Human Rights Day is ‘Consolidating and Sustaining Human Rights Culture into the Future.’

Celebration of Human Rights Day
In India, the National Human Rights Commission is organising a programme at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on December 10, 2023, at 10 am. The Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, the Chief Guest, will deliver an address to the audience.

Various dignitaries, including NHRC Chairperson Justice Arun Mishra, and representatives from diplomatic circles, civil society, academia, NGOs, and human rights defenders, will also be in attendance.

Source: https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/human-rights-day-2023-history-significance-celebrations-and-key-facts-8694912.html

should not be surprised if an older sauna-goer asks me to scrub their back, says Alexander Lembke, as he talks me through the workings of Finland’s oldest working public sauna. “You just do it, help them. There you can see how deeply rooted the sauna is here in the community.” Usually Lembke, who describes himself as a “sauna classicist”, undertakes heating responsibilities (a seven-hour process that begins at 7am) at Rajaportti sauna in Tampere naked. But seeing as he has visitors, today he is dressed in swimming trunks and sliders, accessorised with a multitude of maritime-themed tattoos.

I have come to Finland to learn about its sauna culture, a tradition so valued that in 2020 it was inscribed on the Unesco list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. My starting place, Tampere, one-and-a-half hours by train north of Helsinki, has about 60 public saunas in a city of around 250,000 inhabitants, earning it the title of “sauna capital of the world”.

Unlike in other countries, where saunas are usually marketed as an expensive activity for the few, in Finland they have a far more everyday role. Many people have saunas in their homes; lots of older Finnish people were even born in saunas. But they are also considered a sacred space and a place to find community as well as peace. Finland has topped the world happiness report rankings for the past six years – could its sauna culture have anything to do with it?

Built in 1906, Rajaportti is one of a kind but not flashy. About 15 minutes before opening time a queue forms outside the door, and at 2pm people stream in through the ticket booth, then head to the male or female changing rooms. Soon the sauna – one room divided by a wall with separate sections for men and women (young children can crawl between parents under the gap) – is echoing with voices and the sound of steam from the sauna rocks.

But its function as a sauna is just one aspect of the role it plays in daily life. From therapy room to pub, refuge, debating society and creche, it’s a place where people of all ages connect. Elderly regulars check up on each other if they don’t turn up at their usual sauna time, and young children play in bathtubs on the floor.

Some people come straight from the office for an hour to wash away the stresses of the day on the way home, while others spend hours there with friends over drinks. It can also be a place to feel less alone with your thoughts. One regular told Lembke that he comes to the sauna to “share his melancholy”.

While some saunas have rules governing topics of conversation – discouraging, for example, discussion of politics, business and religion – at Rajaportti, everything goes. “You have left wing, you have right wing, you have punks, you have architects, you have artists; everyone sits up there. And they talk, and they drink. And of course it gets heated sometimes,” says Lembke. “This is how it should be.”

Being based in Stockholm as the Guardian’s Nordic correspondent, and with half my extended family in Sweden, where bada bastu (Swedish for “taking a sauna”) is a popular pastime, this is not my first sauna experience. I have happy childhood memories of darting between sauna and the brackish water of the Stockholm archipelago on a summer evening. On a recent trip to Iceland, on the night of the women’s strike, I went to a sauna in a caravan where, at 15-minute intervals, we were invited to take a dip in the North Atlantic. When a feminist anthem came on, the caravan burst into spontaneous song. But in Finland not only are saunas plentiful – an estimated 3.3m for a population of 5.6 million – but the culture around them is unique. Having originated to fulfil a very practical need for heat and sanitation, the sauna’s significance in Finnish society now goes far deeper – perhaps even to the essence of what it is to be human.

At the heart of it all is löyly (pronounced low-lu), a word that literally translates as steam or heat. But that doesn’t come close to capturing it. Lembke compares the experience of good löyly to an intense hug. “It’s a spiritual thing,” he says. Every sauna has a different löyly and its quality can vary in the same sauna from day to day, or even hour to hour as the heat drops. “If guests come to the sauna they are my hardest critics, and if the löyly’s not good then they are a little bit sad.”

The concept of löyly is something I only begin to grasp when I go into the sauna. After washing with buckets of fresh water from a basin on the bottom floor, I ascend the stairs to the top level, where the temperature is about 80C. As the men next door pour water on the stones, I start to feel the löyly. The taste is aromatic and slightly bitter, a bit like green tea, and it smells like birch. But the intensity of the “hug” is almost overwhelming, and after a few minutes I have to go outside. This is the best part, standing in my acorn-shaped sauna hat, towel and sliders, looking around at the snow and feeling the cold rain on my skin. Skin tingling, chest and temples gently pulsating, I feel entirely in the moment.

“We’re going to spend our evening with our families, so it’s just a nice way to start the weekend,” says social worker Anita Kontukoski, 49, who is sitting on a bench outside, catching up with a friend. She has an electric sauna at home, but lately, with energy prices so high, it has been more convenient to come here. Usually, she comes on a Friday afternoon straight from work. “That’s the best way to start your free time and forget all the stresses of the week.” During the summer months, her friend Mia Surakka, 49, a nature photographer, saunas every day in her summer cottage, but in the winter she goes once a week. “Sauna for Finnish people is really important; for most, they couldn’t live without it.”

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/dec/06/the-sauna-secret-why-finland-is-the-happiest-country-in-the-world

White lung syndrome is emerging as a new health concern among children. From symptoms to preventive measures, all you want to know about the outbreak.

After the outbreak of mystery pneumonia among China’s paediatric population, a similar illness has been raising child hospitalisation cases in Ohio, US. Referred to as the White Lung Syndrome, the illness is characterized by white patches all over the lungs and children affected by it have been experiencing symptoms such as cough, fever and fatigue. Kids under five may reportedly have sneezing, a stuffy or runny nose, watery eyes, wheezing, vomiting and diarrhoea. Health officials in Ohio feel the current outbreak isn’t due to a novel respiratory virus and could be due to Covid, flu, RSV, or mycoplasma. Experts have advised to get children vaccinated in order to prevent them from the outbreak apart from healthy lifestyle measures like balanced diet, physical activity and good sleep.

What is white lung syndrome?
“The term was coined to describe a mysterious respiratory illness that began to be seen among patients in China primarily with pneumonia-like symptoms. In China, it was found to be due to a combination of various respiratory illnesses, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19), Respiratory syncytial (RSV), and mycoplasma pneumoniae. Although it’s not considered a new disease, the world which has still not forgotten Covid-19 is in a state of alert! And rightly so, as the number of cases has seen a huge spike,” says Dr Ravi Dosi, Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Indore.

“White lung syndrome is emerging as a new health issue of global concern. The term was first associated with an outbreak of a respiratory illness in China. It now describes a similar wave of pneumonia that is affecting children across the U.S. Since August this year, around 150 paediatric pneumonia cases have been reported especially in Warren County, Ohio, mirroring a similar outbreak in China. This is once again raising concerns among health officials globally and the exact cause of this outbreak is currently under investigation by health authorities,” says Dr Dosi.

“It’s a respiratory infection caused by multiple microorganisms (influenza, mycoplasma etc) leading to development of pneumonia.

On CXR it appears as white patches in lungs. Since it’s a sudden outbreak (in China) and rapidly spreading, hence the name white lung syndrome is coined to identify this outbreak quickly,” says Dr S Vidya Nair, Sr. Consultant, Pulmonology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad.

Symptoms of white lung syndrome
“In this, white patches in the lung are formed all over the organ. It can be called as a white lung pneumonia or white lung syndrome. At the moment, we are seeing this in China. Many of the children are having both lungs’ involvement because of pneumonia and the symptoms start from upper respiratory infection and then it moves to lower respiratory tack that is lung. Patient start having infection, fever, cough, other symptoms, sore throat, watery eye skin rash or symptoms like diarrhoea,” says Dr Vikas Maurya, Director and HOD Pulmonology, Fortis Shalimar Bagh.

“The most common symptoms among affected children include cough, fever, and fatigue. We must visit a doctor promptly as early medical intervention helps to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment,” says Dr Dosi.

“The clinical symptoms and signs are similar to previous respiratory infections caused by influenza and other atypical pneumonia causing bugs. The symptoms start with flu like symptoms and then progressing to cough, wheezing breathlessness and development of pneumonia,” says Dr Maurya.

“White lung syndrome is emerging as a new health issue of global concern. The term was first associated with an outbreak of a respiratory illness in China. It now describes a similar wave of pneumonia that is affecting children across the U.S. Since August this year, around 150 paediatric pneumonia cases have been reported especially in Warren County, Ohio, mirroring a similar outbreak in China. This is once again raising concerns among health officials globally and the exact cause of this outbreak is currently under investigation by health authorities,” says Dr Ravi Dosi, Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Amabani Hospital, Indore.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/what-is-white-lung-syndrome-signs-symptoms-and-preventive-measures-of-mystery-pneumonia-101701606304045.html

Can eating yogurt help stave off mental disorders? Researchers from the University of Virginia School of Medicine believe so. In a new study, scientists discovered that a common bacterium found in fermented foods and yogurt, called Lactobacillus, plays a crucial role in managing stress, potentially aiding in preventing conditions like depression and anxiety.

This discovery could pave the way for innovative therapies targeting mental health.

For the study, researchers isolated Lactobacillus from the vast array of microorganisms present in our bodies, collectively known as the microbiota. This distinct focus on a specific bacterium marks a significant advancement in the effort to decipher the roles of individual microbes, presenting new avenues for developing treatments and cures for various mental and physical diseases.

“Our discovery illuminates how gut-resident Lactobacillus influences mood disorders, by tuning the immune system,” says Alban Gaultier of UVA’s Department of Neuroscience, the Center for Brain Immunology and Glia (BIG Center), and the TransUniversity Microbiome Initiative, in a university release. “Our research could pave the way towards discovering much-needed therapeutics for anxiety and depression.”

The human gut is naturally inhabited by a myriad of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, collectively forming the microbiota. Despite the initial alarm at the sheer number of microorganisms within us, scientists recognize their crucial role in immune system health, mental well-being, and overall health. Disruptions in the microbiota due to illness, poor diet, or other factors have been linked to numerous diseases, highlighting the importance of understanding and regulating these microscopic inhabitants.

Attempts to manipulate gut flora using beneficial bacteria (probiotics) have shown mixed results due to the complexity of the microbiome. With an estimated 39 trillion microorganisms within each individual, comprehending the specific roles and interactions among these organisms remains a daunting challenge for researchers.

How does Lactobacillus protect mental health?
Dr. Gaultier’s team used an innovative approach to focus on Lactobacilli. Previous research hinted at its potential to alleviate depression in lab mice, prompting further investigation. By utilizing a collection of bacteria called Altered Schaedler Flora containing Lactobacillus strains, the team could create mice with and without Lactobacillus, bypassing the need for antibiotics.

“We were aware from our prior research that Lactobacillus was beneficial in improving mood disorders and was lost following psychological stress, but the underlying reasons remained unclear, primarily due to the technical challenges associated with studying the microbiome,” says Dr. Gaultier.

The results were compelling. Researchers identified how Lactobacilli, specifically in the Lactobaccillacea family, regulate the immune mediator interferon gamma, which is vital in stress response regulation and depression prevention.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/eating-yogurt-mental-disorders/

Tension headaches and migraines are the most common types of head pains, yet the exact source of those conditions has alluded experts — until now.

A research team in Germany studied magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) of 50 patients to analyze connections between headache frequency, neck pain and facial muscle trigger points.

They specifically focused on the trapezius muscles, a pair of large, triangular tissues extending over the back of the neck and shoulders and leading to the head and shoulder blades.

Researchers found that those suffering from both tension-type headaches and migraines showed a higher strain in those neck muscles.

In other words, headaches result from a literal pain in the neck.

MRI scans taken by researchers showed that on the days the participants suffered head and neck pain, they also exhibited greater levels of stress on their necks, which suggested that those muscles were inflamed.

That led the experts to conclude that inflammation in the neck — which could develop for several reasons, including bad posture, lack of sleep, injury and stress — may be linked to tension headaches and migraines.

“Our findings support the role of neck muscles in the pathophysiology of primary headaches,” Dr. Nico Sollmann said in a statement, additionally sharing possible solutions for tackling them.

“Therefore, treatments that target the neck muscles could lead to a simultaneous relief of neck pain, as well as headache.”

Sollmann noted that non-invasive treatment options that directly target the site of pain in the neck muscles — such as massage or acupuncture — could be highly effective and safer than medications.

Source: https://nypost.com/2023/11/29/lifestyle/what-causes-headaches-and-migraines-experts-think-they-finally-know/

Locals in other ‘blue zones’ also live long and prosperous lives

A REMOTE Greek island is home to locals who “live forever” thanks to a stress-free life and sex into old age.

Those searching for the fountain of youth should look no further than the 99-square mile island of Ikaria.

Known as the island of longevity, one in three of its residents make it to their 90s.

And the picturesque haven claims to have more nonaganerians than any other place on the planet.

They not only live longer, but better than the majority of other nations, where it concerns their health.

But what is the secret to their long and prosperous life?

Ikarians follow a different lifestyle compared to most people in big cities.

A University of Athens School of Medicine study analysed the diet of hundreds of Ikarians, finding they consumed plenty of beans and fish – and ate meat only about five times a month.

They also found that Ikarians consumed pesticide-free greens grown in their own gardens.

The Ikaria Study also found the elderly islanders had a diet low in refined sugar but high in olive oil.

They noted the islanders consumed two to three cups of coffee and two to four glasses of wine a day.

And residents lived longer before they were beset with cancer, cardiovascular disease, dementia and depression.

Backed by National Geographic, bestselling author and longevity Dan Buettner visited the island and uncovered another clue to their long-lasting, happy lives.

During their interviews conducted with Ikarians over 90, most claimed to still be sexually active.

Mr Buettner described the picturesque paradise as an “island of gods and immortals” where people “don’t count the years”.

Scientific studies have also found that locals were also found to nap often and drink herbal tea.

And the islanders’ use of unheated olive oil was thought to raise good cholesterol.

They often consumed goat’s milk used in feta which contained tryptophan, which boosts the so-called “happy chemical” serotonin.

And one of the simplest reasons as to why Ikarians lived so long was that the islanders were simply relaxed and happy in life, according to scientific studies.

Ikarians also benefit from an outdoor lifestyle in tune with nature where “stress and loneliness are almost non-existent”, reports National Geographic.

Their tight-knit communities and self-sufficient lives have also contributed to the islanders famed health.

The island is one of the world’s five Blue Zones, which are regions of the world where people routinely surpass average global life expectancies.

The Japanese island of Okinawa, claimed to be home to the world’s longest-lived women is one.

Costa Rica’s Nicoya Pensinsula and Italian tourism beauty spot Sardinia also make the list.

And Loma Linda in California is also renowned for its healthy living.

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/news/9610761/remote-greek-island-locals-live-forever

Maintaining a healthy heart might be the secret to staying young, according to a new study. Researchers working with the American Heart Association discovered that following the AHA’s “Life’s Essential 8” healthy habits to slows down aging could help someone slow their aging by as much as six years.

The study’s focus is on how a healthy heart might keep our bodies feeling and functioning younger than our actual chronological age. Researchers used the checklist to measure heart and brain health during their experiments. This checklist factors in lifestyle choices and health measures like sleep, diet, and blood pressure to gauge an individual’s cardiovascular well-being.

Specifically, the Life’s Essential 8 checklist includes:

1. Eat Better
2. Be More Active
3. Quit Tobacco
4. Get Healthy Sleep
5. Manage Weight
6. Control Cholesterol
7. Manage Blood Sugar
8. Manage Blood Pressure

Biological age, in this context, is determined by something called phenotypic age, a concept that goes beyond the traditional calendar to assess our body’s true wear and tear. Phenotypic age is calculated by adding up your chronological age (how old you are according to your birth date) with the results of nine different blood tests that check various markers like sugar levels, inflammation, and kidney function. When someone’s phenotypic age is higher than their actual age, it suggests that their body is aging faster biologically.

“We found that higher cardiovascular health is associated with decelerated biological aging, as measured by phenotypic age. We also found a dose-dependent association – as heart health goes up, biological aging goes down,” says study senior author Nour Makarem, Ph.D., an assistant professor of epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, in a media release. “Phenotypic age is a practical tool to assess our body’s biological aging process and a strong predictor of future risk of disease and death.”

The research team discovered that people with better heart health had a younger biological age compared to those with poor heart health. For instance, people with high cardiovascular health had an average chronological age of 41 but their bodies appeared to be 36 years-old biologically. On the flip side, individuals with low cardiovascular health were, on average, 53 years-old but had a biological age of 57.

Adjusting for socioeconomic and demographic differences, the researchers noted that the best scores on the Life’s Essential 8 checklist correlated with a biological age that was, on average, six years younger than the actual age.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/8-healthy-habits-slows-down-aging/

According to a recent study, the number of daily steps covered in a day and at what pace you are walking matters the most for long life. 2,700 daily steps can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases to 11 per cent.

A secret to a long life is always said to be linked with indulging in regular physical activities. A sedentary lifestyle is the leading cause of the most serious diseases in the world. Physical activities just not include exercising but regular walking also plays an important role. According to a recent study, the number of daily steps covered in a day and at what pace you are walking matters the most.

A report published by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology revealed that walking faster may have better benefits to health, regardless of the number of steps taken every day. The study has been conducted by researchers from the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States. It provided new insights on the importance of daily step counts which is beneficial to cardiovascular health and longevity.

As per the study’s analysis, over 111,000 people who participated in the study made significant revelations which could change the way we think about physical activities.

They found:

25,00 daily steps reduce the risk of death

If you are planning to be healthy and improve your health, taking 2,500 daily steps is an important milestone. The common goal should be 2,000 steps

Source: https://www.news9live.com/health/walking-9000-steps-a-day-may-reduce-risk-of-death-by-60-study-2334692

Multivitamins could increase the risk of cancer by as much as 30 percent and should carry a health warning, a doctor from a British charity warns. The controversial suggestion goes against the widely-held belief that taking multivitamins could help boost health by ensuring people receive adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals each day. As a result, Dr. Mohammad Muneeb Khan from the United Kingdom’s “Killing Cancer Kindly” says that multivitamin products should include labels with tobacco product-style warnings due to the dangers tied to taking certain supplements.

Dr. Khan, a National Health Service (NHS) oncologist, contends that supplements “bombard the body with huge doses of wholly unnecessary nutrients,” which may enable cancerous cells to grow and multiply. Natural vitamins found in foods, meanwhile, pose no danger because they are absorbed slowly, and the body takes only what it needs before flushing out the rest.

On the other hand, synthetic pills flood the bloodstream with up to twice the recommended daily dosage of nutrients, becoming a “superfood” for cancers, according to the doctor. Multivitamin supplements could also increase the risk of developing other cancers such as prostate cancer, bowel cancer, and breast cancer, the representative from Killing Cancer Kindly adds.

The risk may be so substantial that the charity is now calling for a change in legislation to force manufacturers of multivitamins to include warning labels on their packaging. The warnings appear in Dr. Khan’s new research book “You’ll Wish You Were an Elephant (Killing Cancer Kindly).”

“Synthetic pills contain obscenely high and wholly unnecessary volumes of micronutrient that far exceed what the average human body requires,” Dr. Khan says, according to a statement from SWNS.

“These tiny organic compounds are so numerous that our organs struggle to use them, and they’re left, in effect, to float about the body. The problem is that these excess multivitamins are readily available to feed the hundreds of cancer cells that are made in our body every day. Normally, our body has the capability to destroy these cancer cells effectively but this becomes a challenge when they are well-fed and able to increase in number quickly,” the doctor continues.

“Imagine hundreds of ravenous little Pac-Men running around and gobbling everything up and then multiplying in number exponentially over time until they are able to completely overrun our body’s anti-cancer defenses such as the immune system. The solution, as controversial as it may at first appear, is to reclassify multivitamins as a drug and make people aware of their side effects. A health warning and prescription would work best alongside the general advice that most people, children and adults alike, do not need additional vitamins in their diet, period.”

According to the CDC, nearly six in 10 adults take a daily supplement, which usually contains a broad spectrum of what manufacturers call “essential” organic compounds. These are said to help maintain normal metabolic function – the chemical reactions in our cells that change food into energy.

Our bodies need this energy to do everything from moving and thinking, to growing and repairing. Until now, supplements have been considered safe to use but unnecessary for anyone except those with recognized nutritional deficiencies.

Studies have long shown that a varied, balanced diet, provides all the vitamins the average person needs. However, KCK says that there is a growing body of “compelling” research that suggests a direct link between synthetic vitamin consumption and increased rates of lung cancer, prostate cancer, bowel cancer, and breast cancer.

The risk is said to be the same for all adults regardless of whether they live an otherwise healthy lifestyle. Cancer cells have up to 10 times the capacity of normal healthy cells to absorb nutrients floating around the body – including vitamins.

While other types of nutrients, such as protein, fats, and minerals, also help them to grow, vitamins are, as with normal cells, essential for their survival and reproduction. Natural vitamins, obtained from “healthy” foods such as fruits and vegetables, do not pose the same dangers because of the relatively small quantities released into the body during the digestion process, the author explains.

Unlike their synthetic counterparts, they are “locked away” in the food, with only a fraction being broken down and absorbed before undigested food is excreted – typically within 24 hours. Being concentrated, supplements are rapidly and readily absorbed, leaving an excess of vitamins circulating the bloodstream and just waiting to be “mopped up” by cancer cells before they can be processed or excreted.

Describing the situation as a “ticking health timebomb,” Dr. Khan is now calling for urgent action to curb their use. He wants to see manufacturers add mandatory health warnings on the front and back of packaging — like those found on tobacco products. Khan adds that the government also needs to reclassify multivitamin supplements as a medicine to make them available by prescription only.

“There is a growing body of scientific research pointing to synthetic multivitamin supplements increasing the risk if used daily over a prolonged period. In one flagship study, the CARET trial, the increased risk of developing lung cancer from taking a daily supplement, including vitamins B6, B9, and B12, was estimated to be nearly 30 percent,” Dr. Khan says, according to SWNS.

“Studies looking at the daily use of supplements including vitamin A and vitamin B complex (including vitamins such as B1, B6 and B12) have, likewise, shown a correlation in increased risk for different types of cancer, though more research is required to confirm by how much. And while research is likewise lacking at present for other vitamins, it’s fair to assume they will also have similar effects,” he continues.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/multivitamins-increase-cancer-risk/

Mukesh and Nita Ambani expressed immense pride and joy at the opening of Jio World Plaza, led by their daughter Isha Ambani, praising her and her team for redefining luxury in Mumbai, and foreseeing it as a global exemplar.

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani and Reliance Foundation Chairman Nita Ambani were proud parents beaming with joy during the opening night of the Jio World Plaza in BKC, under Isha Ambani’s leadership.

Mukesh Ambani said he was very proud of the work the Reliance Retail team had done under Isha’s leadership. “This evening is a very special evening for both, Nita and me as parents. It is our time today to applaud the work Isha has done in Reliance Retail. I think she and her luxury retail team have redefined what luxury means in Mumbai,” he said, adding that it made him very proud and was sure it would also make the citizens of Mumbai and India very proud as well.
Nita Ambani too couldn’t stop gushing over Isha’s achievements. “I am just a proud mother of my multi-talented daughter Isha. She and her team have worked so had to put this together. I don’t think the Jio World Plaza is only going to be the best mall in India, but I hope it will be the best mall in the world,” she said at the opening of the Plaza on Tuesday, October 31.

Source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/lifestyle/jio-world-plaza-isha-ambani-reliance-retail-mukesh-nita-proud-parents-18205641.htm

Experts reveal how alcohol and other beverages could be detrimental to your overall health

Before you hit the liquor store or place an order at a coffee shop or restaurant, think twice.

You may want to beware of additives and sugar that may be lurking in your favorite drinks.

A number of nutritionists have weighed in about which beverages to avoid if you’re looking to put your health first.

Keep reading for important nutritional and health-focused insights regarding many popular drinks today.

Energy drinks and pre-workout drinks
Kylie Ivanir, a New York-based registered dietitian who runs her own private practice called Within Nutrition, said pre-workout drinks and energy drinks can lead to “increased blood pressure, stress and compromised sleep,” since they contain excess caffeine and stimulants.

“Other side effects of excess stimulants found in pre-workout and energy drinks are headaches and nausea,” she told Fox News Digital.

“Pre-workout and energy drinks also contain artificial sweeteners and flavors, which disrupt gut health and brain health,” she said.

“The supplement industry is also notoriously unregulated, which leads to contamination with toxins or banned substances that are detrimental to our health.”

Instead of pre-workout or energy drinks, Ivanir recommended opting for coffee or matcha tea.

Sweet alcoholic cocktails

Ivanir said the combination of alcohol and fructose syrup, which are sometimes found in cocktails, are not good for your liver — the organ in which those liquids are processed.

“This compromises the liver’s ability to filter out toxins and hampers its conversion of fructose to glucose,” Ivanir said.

“As a consequence, we can’t detox as well, and we also end up storing that excess fructose as fat. This can then cause a rise in triglycerides, a harmful blood lipid — and is one of the causes of a fatty liver.”

Traditional soda

Soda is bad for your health due to its added sugar, experts say.

“I recommend instead opting for seltzer or sparkling water and adding a squeeze of lime, lemon or orange juice for flavor,” said Amy Gorin, an inclusive plant-based registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Master the Media in Stamford, Connecticut.

Gorin said that — according to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 — people ages two and older should limit their intake of added sugars to less than 10% of total daily calories consumed.

“For someone following a 2,000-calorie daily diet, for example, this means no more than 200 calories from added sugar — or about 12 teaspoons,” she said.

“A 12-ounce can of cola contains about 10 teaspoons worth of added sugar.”

Iced tea

Jinan Banna, a registered dietitian and professor of nutrition at the University of Hawaii, said not only does iced tea contain added sugar but bottled or commercially prepared teas may have the same amount of sugar as soda.

“A high consumption of sweetened drinks such as iced tea has been shown to be associated with development of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes,” she said, referencing a 2010 meta-analysis on sugar-sweetened beverages and type 2 diabetes.

Drinks sweetened with agave nectar
Agave syrup is made from agave plant sap, which has increased in popularity as a substitute for traditional sweeteners (like table sugar and honey), according to a chemical analysis and nutritional profile on agave syrup published in the National Library of Medicine.

But beware of agave-sweetened drinks, as “agave is pretty much high fructose corn syrup with a glorified label,” Ivanir said.

“Agave nectar can contain between 55% to 90% fructose — that’s higher than the amount of fructose in high fructose corn syrup,” she also said.

As Ivanir pointed out, most agave nectar sold in supermarkets contains about 80% to 90% of fructose.

“The problem with taking in a lot of fructose is that your body must convert it to glucose in the liver, but if you have too much, it gets stored as fat. Specifically, belly fat,” she said.

“Excess fructose is also pretty bad for your gut. Your gut bacteria don’t like large doses of fructose. For those with a sensitive gut, this can cause bloating, diarrhea and discomfort. It leads to increased LDL (your bad cholesterol) and decreases insulin sensitivity.”

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/worst-drinks-health-according-nutritionists

Scientists conclude it only takes a short while to undo the damage a sedentary lifestyle causes, and increase the chances of living longer.

A 22-minute brisk walk, jog or cycle every day is enough to offset the negative health effects of too much sitting down, research has suggested.

Experts found that people who sit for long periods – such as in an office job or watching TV – are more likely to die earlier, but moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) eliminates this risk.

The study backs up the UK chief medical officers’ recommendation that people aim for 150 minutes of MVPA per week – roughly 21 minutes per day.

Examples of moderate activity include very brisk walking (4mph or faster), heavy cleaning such as washing windows or mopping, cycling at 10-12mph, or badminton.

Vigorous activities include hiking, jogging at 6mph or faster, shovelling, fast cycling, football, basketball or tennis.

UK guidelines say: “For good physical and mental health, adults should aim to be physically active every day. Any activity is better than none, and more is better still.”

In the new study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, experts examined data for 11,989 people over 50, with a 50/50 split male and female, from Norway, Sweden and the US.

People in the study had worn activity trackers which measured their MPVA.

In all, 5,943 people spent fewer than 10.5 hours sitting down every day while 6,042 spent 10.5 or more hours being sedentary.

Over a five-year follow-up, 6.7% (805) of the people died.

The research showed MPVA for 22 minutes each day offset the negative effects of being sedentary and eliminated the risk of dying early due to prolonged sitting.

Author Edvard Sagelv, from the Arctic University of Norway, said: “In our study, we found that only those people doing more than 12 hours per day sitting had a higher risk of death.

“We are talking about any sitting behaviour – such as being in the office or watching TV for long periods of time.

“In our study, every minute higher MVPA showed a lower risk of death – meaning if people were doing less than 22 minutes (such as 10 minutes) there was still a lower risk of death.

“However, doing 22 minutes eliminated the higher risk of death from sedentary time.

“This means that if doing 22 minutes or more per day, there was no excess risk from sedentary time.

“And, if doing more than 22 minutes per day, there was a lower risk of death overall. Basically, the more the better.”

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/just-22-minutes-moderate-exercise-a-day-can-offset-negative-effects-of-sitting-down-study-finds-12992038

Dozens of U.S. states are suing Meta Platforms (META.O) and its Instagram unit, accusing them of fueling a youth mental health crisis by making their social media platforms addictive.

In a complaint filed on Tuesday, the attorneys general of 33 states including California and New York said Meta, which also operates Facebook, repeatedly misled the public about the dangers of its platforms, and knowingly induced young children and teenagers into addictive and compulsive social media use.

“Meta has harnessed powerful and unprecedented technologies to entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens,” according to the complaint filed in the Oakland, California federal court. “Its motive is profit.”

Children have long been an appealing demographic for businesses, which hope to attract them as consumers at ages when they may be more impressionable, and solidify brand loyalty.

For Meta, younger consumers may help secure more advertisers who hope children will keep buying their products as they grow up.

But the states said research has associated children’s use of Meta’s social media platforms with “depression, anxiety, insomnia, interference with education and daily life, and many other negative outcomes.”

Meta said it was “disappointed” in the lawsuit.

“Instead of working productively with companies across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use, the attorneys general have chosen this path,” the company said.

Eight other U.S. states and Washington, D.C. are filing similar lawsuits against Meta on Tuesday, bringing the total number of authorities taking action against the Menlo Park, California-based company to 42.

Meta shares fell 0.6% on the Nasdaq.

TIKTOK, YOUTUBE ALREADY FACE LAWSUITS
The cases are the latest in a string of legal actions against social media companies on behalf of children and teens.

Meta, ByteDance’s TikTok and Google’s (GOOGL.O) YouTube already face hundreds of lawsuits filed on behalf of children and school districts about the addictiveness of social media.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s chief executive, has defended in the past his company’s handling of content that some critics find harmful.

“At the heart of these accusations is this idea that we prioritize profit over safety and well-being. That’s just not true,” he posted in October 2021 on his Facebook page.

In Tuesday’s cases, Meta could face civil penalties of $1,000 to $50,000 for each violation of various state laws — an amount that could add up quickly given the millions of young children and teenagers who use Instagram.

Much of the focus on Meta stemmed from a whistleblower’s release of documents in 2021 that showed the company knew Instagram, which began as a photo-sharing app, was addictive and worsened body image issues for some teen girls.

The lawsuit by the 33 states alleged that Meta has strived to ensure that young people spend as much time as possible on social media despite knowing that they are susceptible to the need for approval in the form of “likes” from other users about their content.

“Meta has been harming our children and teens, cultivating addiction to boost corporate profits,” said California Attorney General Rob Bonta, whose state includes Meta’s headquarters.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/legal/dozens-us-states-sue-meta-platforms-harming-mental-health-young-people-2023-10-24/

The Mediterranean diet could be the key to blasting belly fat.

A new study from the Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea-Plus (PREDIMED-Plus) revealed that the Mediterranean diet, partnered with physical activity, can counter aging-related body changes suchh as fat gain and loss of muscle mass.

The study, published in JAMA Network Open on Oct. 18, was designed to determine whether the diet could prevent cardiovascular disease — but in the meantime, a subgroup was evaluated to measure the impact on body composition after a three-year period.

The results showed that an energy-reduced (lower-calorie) Mediterranean diet and increased physical activity appeared to reduce aging-related weight gain and muscle loss.

A total of 1,521 middle-aged and older participants, who were either overweight or had obesity and metabolic syndrome, were separated into two groups.

The first group followed a Mediterranean diet while reducing their calorie intake by 30% and increasing their physical activity.

The second group followed a Mediterranean diet without calorie restrictions or changes in physical activity.

The participants in the first group experienced “clinically meaningful” changes in body composition throughout the three-year experiment, according to the researchers.

This included a 5% or greater improvement in fat mass, visceral (belly) fat mass and loss of lean muscle mass after only one year of following the diet.

Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.

Nutritionist and registered dietitian Ilana Muhlstein, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital that the Mediterranean diet has been “touted for many years as the healthiest diet in the world.”

She added, “And while that may be true, it is extremely arbitrary advice for a health professional to give to an average person.”

The diet encompasses a “broad array of advice” beyond just emphasizing whole foods, Muhlstein said.

The “great aspects” of the diet include beans, legumes, whole grains, healthy fats, seeds, nuts and fish-centered entrées, the nutritionist said.

An energy-reduced Mediterranean diet differs from the original by incorporating more protein, having less added sugars and containing higher volumes of fresh vegetables or fruit instead of dried fruit.

“Yet the healthiest part of the Mediterranean diet that so many Americans overlook is the absolute obsession with veggies and fresh herbs,” Muhlstein said.

“These high-volume, nutrient-dense, low-calorie ingredients are the heart and soul of the true Mediterranean diet that sadly get dismissed.”

Countries that have a “much better cardiovascular health status compared to America,” like Israel or Greece, have an “abundance” of vegetables present at every meal, according to the dietitian.

“These countries don’t just eat vegetables — they celebrate them and would never think to have a meal without them,” she said.

“When they serve dips, like hummus, and tzatziki, they are always accompanied by a tray of sliced cucumbers or a mixed salad.”

She added, “However, in the United States, I see people devour high-calorie Mediterranean delicacies, like pita, shawarma and falafel, with almost no veggies in sight, which misses the point.”

Muhlstein said people in these other countries “tend to live healthier” since they “easily maintain a healthy body weight by filling up on lots of low-starch veggies every single day.”

Source: https://nypost.com/2023/10/22/mediterranean-diet-can-blast-belly-fat-caused-by-aging-new-study-finds/

Can’t put down that bag of potato chips? Science says it’s not you, it’s the junk food.

Ultra-processed foods, or UPFs, are just as addictive as nicotine, cocaine or heroin, experts say — and more than 1 in 10 people are hooked.

A new analysis of 281 studies across 36 different countries has uncovered that a staggering 14% of adults are hooked on UPFs.

The finding is shocking, given that UPFs — think: sausage, ice cream, biscuits, soft drinks, and sugary cereals — have previously been linked to cognitive decline, cancer, psychological distress and even an early death.

The analysis was led by University of Michigan professor Ashley Gearhardt, who previously created the Yale Food Addiction Scale by applying the same criteria that experts use to diagnose substance addiction.

That criteria includes uncontrollable and excessive consumption, cravings, and continued intake despite potential negative health effects.

“The combination of refined carbohydrates and fats often found in UPFs seems to have a supra-additive effect on brain reward systems, above either macronutrient alone, which may increase the addictive potential of these foods,” Gearhardt and the study’s authors wrote in their new findings, published in The BMJ.

“Many UPFs for many people are addictive,” author Chris van Tulleken told The Guardian in an article about the new study. “And when people experience food addiction, it is almost always to UPF products.”

But exactly why largely remains a mystery to experts, some of which believe that it may not be a single ingredient that makes candy or crackers addicting — unlike nicotine in tobacco — but rather the contraindications of multiple.

Naturally sourced foods tend to have more carbohydrates or more fats, but not high levels of both, whereas UPFs have disproportionately higher levels of both.

If an apple has 55 kcal from carbs and less than 2 kcal from fat, a chocolate bar as 237 kcal from carbs and 266 kcal from fat.

Past research has also found that sugary or fatty foods make healthier alternatives less appealing, and the brain rewiring could have health-related consequences, such as over-indulging and weight gain.

Eating ultra-processed foods triggers a rush of dopamine followed by a sudden drop-off, resulting in an endless cycle of craving, getting a fix and crashing — similar to that of someone who is addicted to alcohol or drugs.

Source: https://nypost.com/2023/10/14/ice-cream-and-potato-chips-are-just-as-addictive-as-cocaine-or-heroin-research/

Stroke cases are increasing even in young people. Know risk factors and lifestyle habits that can help you prevent stroke.

Stroke deaths may rise exponentially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) by the year 2050 from 86 per cent to 91 per cent, said studies by World Stroke Organization and the Lancet Neurology Commission. The report states that stroke deaths are expected to surge from 6.6 million in 2020 to a daunting 9.7 million by 2050. Stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced and the brain tissue doesn’t get blood and oxygen. Trouble in walking, speaking and understanding as well as paralysis or numbness of the face, arm or leg are symptoms of stroke. Stroke is treatable if detected early and can be prevented with certain lifestyle measures.

“Stroke is the leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Stroke leads to sudden loss of ability to speak, move limbs, vision problems and loss of consciousness. There are almost 1.25 crore new cases of stroke and more than 10 crore people are living with stroke at any point of time in the world. The number of new stroke patients have increased by almost 70 per cent from 1990s to 2020. The stroke numbers have increased by around 20 per cent in people less than age 70 years. Stroke is a disease which occurs commonly with advancing age but stroke can be seen in any age group,” says Dr Kapil Singhal, Director – Neurology, Fortis Hospital Noida in an interview with HT Digital.

Risk factors for stroke
Most of the brain strokes are associated with risk factors as detailed below and many of them can be prevented.

The major reasons for stroke according to Dr Singhal are:

1. High blood pressure: High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke both due to clotting (ischemic) or bleeding (haemorrhagic) in the brain. Blood pressure effects vessels of brain and heart which can cause clotting or obstruction in brain.

2. Heart disease including irregular heart rhythm: Irregular heart rate can lead to clot formation in heart which can move to brain and lead to obstruction of blood vessels.

3. High body mass index or obesity: One of the leading causes of stroke is lack of physical activity. A regular exercise regime with at least 30 minutes of physical activity for 4-5 days a week is essential to cut down the stroke risk.

4. High fasting sugars or diabetes: Diabetes if not controlled puts you at high risk of brain attack and associated complications.

5. Smoking: Smoking both active and passive is harmful and can increase stroke risk.

6. Ambient particulate matter pollution: We all are living in a polluted world, ambient pollution in our houses is also harmful and can cause stroke.

Lifestyle habits to prevent stroke
“Diet plays a very important role in our health. What we eat, reflects in our body. A diet rich in red meat is very harmful. Whereas diet rich in green vegetables and fruits is associated with reduced risk of stroke. A simple formula of one major meal consisting of fruits and vegetables can go a long way in increasing our longevity,” says Dr Singhal.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/stroke-could-cause-10-million-deaths-by-2050-what-causes-stroke-and-lifestyle-habits-to-reduce-risk-101696939926725.html#lnldwk5s6khimi57din

Managing PCOS in teenagers requires strong support. It not only includes medical care but educational and emotional support.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a lifestyle disease and millions of women throughout the world are affected by this complex hormonal disorder. Many cases have appeared in recent years where it was seen that PCOS is impacting teens also even though it’s typically linked to adults. These symptoms are sometimes misinterpreted as typical teenage changes in teenagers, making diagnosis difficult. Due to a sedentary lifestyle wherein, there is less to no physical activity, not having a proper meal and sleeping on time is a matter of concern.

It can be detected by several symptoms. Some of these include:

•    Irregular periods
•    Acne and weight gain (Obesity)
•    Excessive hair growth on the face and body (Hirsutism)

Irregular Periods:

Irregular menstrual cycles are common in teenagers and typically become stable within 3 years of menarche. However, persistent issues may be required for consultation with a gynecologist. Teens with PCOS often experience unpredictable cycles, causing pain and heavy bleeding, which can affect their daily lives. Any adolescent facing irregular periods should seek a gynecologist’s help to rule out PCOS.

Acne and Weight gain (Obesity):

The sedentary lifestyle and reduced physical activity in young adults have resulted in many health problems, particularly for those with PCOS who may experience acne and weight gain. Dermatological treatments target acne, while a balanced diet and regular exercise help in weight management. With the help of gynecologists and specialists, one can ensure comprehensive solutions for teenagers with PCOS.

Excessive hair growth on the face and body (Hirsutism):

Hirsutism, or excessive facial and body hair, is another typical PCOS symptom in adolescents. This may cause mental anguish and lower self-esteem. For better mental health of teenagers with PCOS, it is important to address these problems right away. Gynecologists will help by prescribing drugs like hormonal contraceptives or anti-androgens to effectively treat hirsutism.

Adolescents’ long-term health can be greatly impacted by early PCOS diagnosis. It enables timely intervention to control symptoms, avoid problems, and enhance overall quality of life. Gynecologists can perform a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, to diagnose PCOS in adolescents. Early diagnosis gives patients and medical professionals the ability to take proactive steps to treat the problem.

Managing PCOS in teenagers requires strong support. It not only includes medical care but educational and emotional support. Teens who have PCOS need to learn about their problem, along with any potential long-term implications and treatment options.

Source: https://doctor.ndtv.com/living-healthy/pcos-in-adolescents-know-early-signs-and-symptoms-and-tips-to-manage-the-condition-4413080

It’s clear now more than ever that living longer is heavily influenced by lifestyle choices like diet and exercise, but a recent unpublished study found that certain habits can add more than 20 additional years to your life.

The research, presented last month at the American Society for Nutrition’s annual meeting, found that practicing eight healthy habits at age 40 was associated with an additional 24 years of life for men.

Women saw similar benefits from incorporating the practices in their lives at age 40, with 21 extra years added to their lives.

“We were really surprised by just how much could be gained with the adoption of one, two, three, or all eight lifestyle factors,” said Xuan-Mai Nguyen, lead study author and health science specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, in a press release.

“The earlier the better, but even if you only make a small change in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, it still is beneficial.”

8 habits that could add up to 24 years to your life

NATIONAL PARENTS’ DAY 2023: Parent’s Day, celebrated every year in the fourth week of July, holds significant importance as it recognizes parents’ invaluable role in our lives. From the moment of our birth, they have nurtured us, guided us, and provided unwavering support on our journey to independence. Their selfless love and sacrifices deserve our heartfelt appreciation.

This Parents’ Day, let’s make a resolution to cherish their dedication and unwavering commitment to our well-being. We can express our gratitude in simple yet meaningful ways, such as cooking their favourite meal, surprising them with thoughtful gifts, or gathering for cosy family get-togethers. It’s a day not only to celebrate our biological parents but also to honour those parental figures who have been there for us like parents.

National Parent’s Day: History

In 1994, President Bill Clinton introduced National Parents’ Day by signing a Congressional Resolution. While not a public holiday, this annual celebration is observed nationwide to commemorate and elevate the significant role parents play in shaping our lives. From parades and speeches to awards ceremonies and special events, the day is filled with heartfelt gestures and appreciation for the unconditional love and support parents provide.

It is a time to come together as a community and express gratitude for the profound impact parents have in nurturing and guiding us throughout our journey.

Source: https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/national-parents-day-2023-date-history-significance-and-quotes-to-share-8400709.html

LIMERICK, Ireland — There are some days when many of us just want to stay in bed from morning to night or remain glued to the couch indefinitely. While lounging can certainly be a good time every once in a while, researchers from the University of Limerick have uncovered yet another reason for everyone to prioritize a little bit of movement — especially older individuals. Their study finds modest amounts of physical activity each day can reduce the risk of depression.

This research, conducted in collaboration with Trinity College Dublin, reports that a “dose” equal to just 20 minutes per day (for five days a week) of moderate-intensity physical activity (brisk walking, for example) displayed an association to less risk of depressive symptoms and chances of major depression.

Depression, of course, is an increasingly common condition among older adults. Meanwhile, depression is also linked to a host of significant risk factors for major chronic conditions like cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, and even an increased risk of death and suicide.

All in all, estimates show that depression causes around five to 10 percent of the burden of all diseases in Europe. Meanwhile, the economic cost of depression in the United States alone is approximately more than $210.5 billion! Therefore, zeroing in on potentially easy and low-cost health and lifestyle solutions that could reduce the risk of depression is a top priority for scientists and doctors alike.

Recent studies have concluded that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) can benefit those at risk for depression.

“However, there is no agreement on how much physical activity is protective for depression overall, or how this may vary among adults with disease,” says Dr. Eamon Laird, lead author on the paper and a post-doctoral researcher in the Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences at UL, in a university release.

“For this work, we used 10 years of data from the Irish Longitudinal Study On Ageing which included information on depression, MVPA, and other key health-related variables such as disease, lifestyle factors and socio-economic status.”

“We sought to identify the lowest dose of MVPA associated with protection against Major Depression and depressive symptoms and the extent to which this varied based on the presence of chronic disease,” Dr. Laird continues.

Source: https://studyfinds.org/few-minutes-exercise-depression/

International Day of Yoga 2023 falls on June 21. Check out best wishes, images, messages, inspiring quotes, WhatsApp and Facebook status to celebrate Yoga Day.

The International Day of Yoga is marked annually on June 21 on a global scale since 2015. An invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition, yoga has emerged as one of the most trusted means to boost physical and mental well-being. This year, the theme for International Yoga Day is “Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which beautifully encapsulates our collective aspiration for “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”

Every year, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated with fervour across the globe. Check out our collection of best wishes, messages, quotes, greetings, WhatsApp messages, and Facebook statuses to boost your fitness mood.

Watch: Full Body Yoga For Strength, Flexibility, & Balance | Yoga For The Soul

Yoga is the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, the harmony of the soul, and the symphony of life. Happy International Day of Yoga.

May your yoga practice lead you to a healthier mind, body, and soul. Happy Yoga Day.

“Yoga is the symbol of universal aspiration for health and well-being. It is a health assurance on zero budget.” – Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On this special day, may you embrace the power of yoga and experience its transformative effects. Happy Yoga Day.

Yoga is the gateway to happiness and the secret to a healthy mind. Wishing you a Happy International Yoga Day.

On this yoga Day, strengthen your mind, body and soul with the ancient practice. Happy International Day of Yoga.

“Yoga is the journey of the self, to the self and through the self. Happy International Day of Yoga.” – The Bhagavad Gita.

Yoga is the journey that takes you through yourself, to your true self, to your soul. I wish everyone a very Happy Yoga Day.

May the practice of yoga bring peace, harmony, and well-being to your life. Happy International Day of Yoga.

Yoga gives us the lesson to cure what is fatal to be endured and to endure what you cannot cure. Wishing you Happy International Yoga Day.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/international-day-of-yoga-2023-best-wishes-images-inspiring-quotes-messages-facebook-whatsapp-status-yoga-day-101687231363721.html