If there is any unidentified infection in the area surrounding your teeth and gums, or if you are experiencing severe pain, it could be a warning sign of mouth cancer. Don't overlook these symptoms of mouth cancer and seek timely treatment. Oral cancer can affect various parts of the mouth such as the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks and roof of the mouth. Preventing oral cancer involves lifestyle changes and quitting harmful habits like tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing and replacing toothbrushes is crucial in preventing abnormal cell growth in the mouth. This type of cancer impacts men when compared to women due to chewing tobacco or betel nut products. The use of tobacco for chewing, as well as various other substances like betel nuts, pan masala and similar products commonly found in our nation, is notable and seen in a large number of people. These items are often packaged in small sachets and widely distributed across the country, ensuring easy availability. Hence, timely detection after witnessing symptoms and prompt treatment are essential to tackle oral cancer. Don’t ignore these symptoms of oral cancer: 1. Ignoring your dental health can cause oral cancer. It is important to monitor persistent sores that do not heal for a long time. 2. Loose teeth, jaw ulcers, swollen gums, jaw swelling and persistent pain can all have an impact. Tumours impacting the bones, muscles or nerves in the head and neck area can result in restricted jaw movement. People with long-standing chewing habits and infections around the gums and teeth must seek help without any delay and get the proper diagnosis of cancer. 3. Changes in the voice, hoarseness, and inability to swallow could mean cancer in the nasal passages, throat or vocal cords. So, beware of these warning signs. 4. Persistent lumps or masses in the neck, throat or mouth should be promptly checked for cancerous growths. 5. Chronic bad breath that doesn't improve with oral care may indicate tumours in the mouth or jaw. 6. Unhealed sores or ulcers within the mouth may signal oral cancer, underscoring the necessity of routine dental examinations. 7. Recognising these cues and indicators is beneficial, as it provides an opportunity for early intervention to enhance treatment results and the overall prognosis of cancer. (Dr. Vikram Ghanekar, Surgical Oncologist, Onco-Lifecare Cancer Centre, Chiplun) Also Read: Amidst persistent chaos, Worli man remains Dadar railway station's guiding light
25 April,2024 03:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentConsuming more than 5 grams of saccharin, an artificial sweetener known to be about 300-400 times sweeter than regular sugar with zero calories, a day can be fatal, but sudden deaths due to artificial sweeteners have not been reported yet, contended doctors on Tuesday. They reacted to the tragic case of a 10-year-old girl in Punjab's Patiala who died, last month, after eating her birthday cake, which was reportedly baked with a high concentration of saccharin. The girl's entire family also fell ill after consuming the chocolate cake purchased online. “In normal quantities, saccharin is not fatal, but high quantities, especially more than five grams a day would be very fatal. And this could be a part of any preparation which is not properly mixed,” Dr M Wali, senior consultant, Department of Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said. “There are no published or documented reports of humans suddenly dying from ‘high levels of saccharin consumption’. There are no empirical evidence-based reports on sudden death due to saccharine in animal models or human beings,” added Dr Abby Philips, a hepatologist, in a post on X. “Saccharine and other artificial sweeteners are generally considered safe and have undergone extensive trials which showcase safety as additives in food products. It is ok for you to use them in their recommended intake,” explained Dr Abby, popularly known as the liver doctor on X. Saccharin sodium is among the six artificial sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame potassium, sucralose, neotame, and isomaltulose) approved “to be used in food” products by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Based on the available scientific evidence, saccharin is also deemed “safe for the general population under certain conditions of use” by the US Food and Drug Administration. However, Dr Tushar Tayal, Lead Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram told IANS that “research suggests that artificial sweeteners can disrupt bacteria’s delicate balance in the digestive system and encourage types of bacteria that can raise glucose intolerance leading to an increased risk of metabolic disorders, such as obesity, cancer, and diabetes”. Dr Wali noted that commonly people who consume these sweeteners, including saccharin, experience very severe headaches. But in the case of the young girl, “she would have consumed the portion of the cake which might have an accidentally high concentration of saccharine”. He suggested “avoiding artificial sweeteners at all costs”. Yet the question remains: How much of the cake did the young girl consume? “Acute saccharine toxicity leading to sudden death in the child is highly assumptious; and adulteration, contamination or other causes -- deliberate or unintentional must be sought,” the liver doctor said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
25 April,2024 10:25 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSA four-year-old boy has been given a new life by doctors in Pune, after surgery to treat Midgut Volvulus -- a condition in which the intestine gets twisted. Midgut volvulus is a severe condition that is common among children and infants and often occurs within the first few weeks of life, caused by a congenital anomaly of the intestines -- leaving the child susceptible to sudden twisting of most of the intestines. Symptoms such as upper abdominal distension, bilious vomiting, and abdominal tenderness are the first signs of midgut volvulus in infants. While the condition is treatable, late detection of the condition could rapidly deteriorate the patient’s health and can be fatal. The boy, Sankalp, was admitted to Surya Mother and Child Hospital, Pune, in an extremely deteriorated condition with wasted muscles, an immensely bloated abdomen, and dehydration. Also Read: Chaos at Dadar railway station prompts this Mumbaikar to become human indicator "Delayed detection of midgut volvulus increases treatment challenges and risks of a high fatality rate," said Sachin Shah, Director - Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune. Sankalp was initially treated at a tertiary care hospital in Varanasi, where he underwent surgery. However, his recovery was fraught with challenges, leading to multiple corrective surgeries that failed to improve his condition. Despite the efforts, Sankalp's health continued to deteriorate, and his family was informed that further medical intervention seemed futile. At the Pune hospital, the team of doctors assessed Sankalp's condition and opted for a re-surgery to address the condition. During the subsequent extensive four-hour surgery, the surgical team encountered adhesions in Sankalp's abdomen that had caused the intestines to adhere together, severely compromising their function. "Despite these odds, the surgical team meticulously separated the intestines, repaired the damage, and restored their function during the extensive surgery," Sachin said. With their effort, Sankalp made a "remarkable recovery within 48 hours post-surgery". After six days of abstaining from solid food, Sankalp was finally able to consume real food again, marking a significant milestone in his journey to health and recovery. "Following a successful recovery, Sankalp was discharged after 10 days and closely monitored for the next three months. Once the doctors were satisfied with the healthy weight gain after a three-month follow-up period, Sankalp was discharged," the doctor said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
25 April,2024 09:51 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSThe success of mRNA vaccine technology as seen during the recent Covid-19 pandemic offers hope for using the platform to reduce preventable illness across multiple disease areas, according to a report on Wednesday. The report by GlobalData, a data and analytics company, as part of World Immunization Week, shows that there are about 507 prophylactic or preventive vaccines currently in late-stage development, of which 88 are being developed using the mRNA technology to prevent diseases ranging from tuberculosis, malaria, to influenza, Covid-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Lyme disease, amongst others. Unlike other vaccine technologies, mRNA enables rapid production and adaptability for evolving targets. While these vaccines require ultra-cold storage, modifying this would make it even more desirable. World Immunization Week is observed every year during the last week of April to raise awareness about the potential of vaccines to prevent disease and protect life. “Vaccinations have heavily reduced the burden of disease in our society. We have already seen the eradication of smallpox and are very close to achieving the same with polio. Promoting immunisation, improving vaccination schedules, and developing new vaccines are all methods that will contribute towards a decrease in morbidity mortality,” said Anaelle Tannen, Infectious Disease Analyst at GlobalData. Currently, over 20-life threatening diseases are preventable with vaccines. In addition, novel mechanisms are expected to broaden the scope of available preventable vaccines in the coming years. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that vaccines prevent about 3.5-5 million deaths annually from diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles. “The recent Covid-19 pandemic has emphasised the need for effective vaccines, improving vaccination access and acceptance, in order to protect the health, wellness, and security of the world population,” Tannen said. “Whilst immunisation is one of the cheapest and most effective public health interventions, enabling the eradication of disease, vaccine hesitancy is still very much present, and especially with the mRNA approach. Therefore, more work is needed to encourage acceptance of this immunisation strategy among the public,” Tannen added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 April,2024 05:29 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSLove to binge on ultra-processed foods like cake, biscuits, bread, yoghurt, and ice creams? Beware, these foods rich in emulsifiers like xantham and guar gum may raise your risk of diabetes, finds a study. Emulsifiers, the most commonly used additives, are often added to processed and packaged foods to make them look more appealing, boost their taste and texture as well as increase shelf life. The study appearing in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology linked emulsifiers including mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, carrageenans, modified starches, lecithins, phosphates, celluloses, gums, and pectins to the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Previously emulsifiers have been linked to cancers of the breast and prostate. Researchers from France’s INRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment studied the relationships between the dietary intakes of emulsifiers, assessed over a follow-up period of 14 years, and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in a large study including 104,139 adults between 2009 and 2023. They diagnosed about 1,056 cases of diabetes as a result of chronic exposure to some emulsifiers. These were carrageenans (3 per cent increased risk per increment of 100 mg per day); tripotassium phosphate (15 per cent increased risk per increment of 500 mg per day); mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (4 per cent increased risk per increment of 100 mg per day); sodium citrate (4 per cent increased risk per increment of 500 mg per day); guar gum (11 per cent increased risk per increment of 500 mg per day); gum arabic (3 per cent increased risk per increment of 1,000 mg per day) and xanthan gum (8 per cent increased risk per increment of 500 mg per day). "These findings are issued from a single observational study for the moment, and cannot be used on their own to establish a causal relationship. They need to be replicated in other epidemiological studies worldwide and supplemented with toxicological and interventional experimental studies, to further inform the mechanisms linking these food additive emulsifiers and the onset of type 2 diabetes," explained Mathilde Touvier, Research Director at Inserm, and Bernard Srour, Junior Professor at INRAE -- lead authors of the study. “However, our results represent key elements to enrich the debate on re-evaluating the regulations around the use of additives in the food industry, in order to better protect consumers,” they said. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: ‘Longer the life of a food product, the sooner your expiry date: Revant Himatsingka aka Food Pharmer This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
24 April,2024 05:16 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSDo you enjoy your time spent in nature? It may help lower inflammation levels, linked to the risk of heart disease and diabetes, finds a study. While previous research linked exposure to the natural world with better mental and physical health, the new study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity focussed on inflammation. The study showed that frequent positive contact with nature was independently associated with lower circulating levels of three different indicators of inflammation -- “interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine closely involved in the regulation of systemic inflammatory processes; C-reactive protein, which is synthesised in response to stimulation by IL-6 and other cytokines; and fibrinogen, a soluble protein present in blood plasma -- were measured, and structural equation modelling was conducted to detect the association between nature engagement and the three biomarkers.” "By focusing on these inflammation markers, the study provides a biological explanation for why nature might improve health," said the team led by Anthony Ong, Professor in the Department of Psychology at Cornell University, US. The study particularly showed "how it (enjoying nature) might prevent or manage diseases linked to chronic inflammation, like heart disease and diabetes." For the study, the team included 1,244 participants who were assessed for physical health and provided comprehensive biological assessments via a physical exam, urine sample, and fasting morning blood draw. "It's not just about how often people spend time outdoors, but also the quality of their experiences," said Ong. Even when controlling for other variables such as demographics, health behaviours, medication, and general well-being, Ong said his team found that reduced levels of inflammation were consistently associated with more frequent positive contact with nature. "It's good to remind ourselves that it's not just the quantity of nature," he said, "it's also the quality." Also Read: Connecting with nature: Exploring how Mumbaikars can go camping and tips for beginners This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 April,2024 05:01 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSApril is known to be the stress awareness month. In today's fast-paced world, people of all ages are facing unprecedented levels of pressure and stress, leading to a surge in mental and physical health challenges. "In addition to impacting mental well-being, stress can have profound effects on the body, contributing to various health conditions and diseases," Vipul Gupta, Director of Neurointervention and Co-Chief of the Stroke Unit at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, told IANS. The doctor noted that stress can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, which can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease and stroke. "Chronic stress triggers a cascade of physiological responses, including elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can disrupt normal bodily functions. "Digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastritis are also linked to stress, as it can disrupt gut motility and exacerbate inflammation. Furthermore, prolonged stress may contribute to hormonal imbalances, leading to reproductive issues in both men and women, the doctor said. A December 2023 study by ICICI Lombard General Insurance unveiled that every third person in India is grappling with stress. The report said that 77 per cent of Indians experience at least one symptom of stress regularly. Coping mechanisms such as mindfulness practices, healthy lifestyle habits, regular exercise, maintaining social connections, etc, play crucial roles in managing stress. Divya Mohindroo, a Counselling Psychologist suggested exploring mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing to manage stress. She also emphasised the therapeutic value of journaling and harnessing the power of nature. "Explore the benefits of spending time outdoors for stress management. This highlights a natural approach to stress reduction that connects with the concept of awareness," she told IANS. The experts also stressed the importance of seeking help when needed. "Recognising when stress becomes overwhelming and seeking professional help is paramount. Visiting a doctor or mental health professional is necessary when symptoms persist, interfere with daily functioning, or lead to physical ailments. Stress awareness month serves as a timely reminder to prioritise mental well-being and seek support when needed," Vipul said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
23 April,2024 04:52 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSThe liver plays a pivotal in the body's overall functioning. It detoxifies and flushes out toxins from the blood to maintain one’s overall well-being. Moreover, the liver produces bile, which eases digestion and breaks down fats for better absorption. It also stores nutrients such as vitamins and minerals and regulates blood sugar levels by storing and releasing glucose to maintain energy balance. However, liver function is disturbed when one is diagnosed with liver illnesses and can also suffer from failure and may require a liver transplant. Dr Gaurav Chaubal, director of liver, pancreas, intestine transplant program, and HPB surgery, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai answers relevant questions about liver transplants. What is a liver transplant? A liver transplant is a major procedure. A failed liver is removed and replaced with a healthy liver generally taken from a living donor or a deceased donor. A few different types of liver transplants are living donor liver transplantation, paediatric liver transplantation, split liver transplantation, domino liver transplantation, cadaver liver transplantation, and auxiliary liver transplantation. Hence, one should understand when they require a liver transplant to improve the quality of life. A thorough investigation is the first step of an effective liver transplant procedure. This helps ascertain the possibility of a successful liver transplant and if the patient is physically and mentally fit to undergo the rigours of a liver transplant surgery. Following the tests and analysis, the liver team will help the patient and caregivers understand the process of the liver transplant surgery. The multidisciplinary team at our liver transplant hospital in Mumbai includes hepatologists, intensivists, anaesthetists, liver transplant surgeons, liver transplant coordinators, nurses, care managers, physiotherapists, dietitians, and other clinicians to manage your care at every stage. The process involves a waiting and preparation period, the transplant surgery, and post-transplant rehabilitation. Who is recommended a liver transplant?It is a recommended treatment for people who suffer from end-stage chronic liver disease (ESLD). It is a progressive illness in which healthy liver tissues are replaced by scarred tissues (cirrhosis) leading to liver decompensation. Liver cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) is another illness for which a liver transplant is advised. When the liver fails suddenly (loses more than 75 per cent functioning capacity in a short time) also known as Acute Liver Failure, the patient will benefit from an early liver transplant. In the pediatric age group, inborn errors of metabolism, biliary atresias, and hepatoblastomas are also indications for a liver transplant. How much time does it take to recover from a transplant? After the liver transplant surgery, it takes up to 10-15 days to be discharged from the hospital for the recipient and five to seven days for the donor. The donor can return to normal life in a month provided they follow a prescribed diet and a healthy lifestyle. The life expectancy of the donor is not affected after the surgery and does not require medical intervention after two months. The recipient after successful surgery can resume normal life after about two months with adherence to the prescribed diet and lifestyle. A liver transplant is life-altering as it improves one's chances of survival due to prompt recovery and successful outcomes. Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist or your physician for personalised guidance.
23 April,2024 04:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Although the current craze for toxin-free skincare products may seem modern, its origins stretch back through time. For ages, individuals across the Indian subcontinent have embraced the use of natural ingredients like turmeric, aloe vera and rice water for skin care. Adding to the list of natural skincare ingredients is a lesser-known marvel: the Kokum fruit. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of India's Western Ghats, this fruit is a common household item used for cooking and sherbet. Emerging from the Garcinia Indica tree, Kokum also serves as an excellent emollient that creates a protective layer on the skin. Take it from skincare gurus: Kokum remains the hidden elixir for achieving luminous and age-defying skin. Delving into the benefits of using Kokum for skincare, Midday Online spoke to a city-based skincare expert Namrata Naik, the National Technical Educator at Biosoft. Here is what she recommends: What are the key nutrients found in kokum that contribute to its skin-protective properties? Kokum, scientifically known as Garcinia indica, is a fruit native to the Western Ghats region of India. It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine and culinary practices for its numerous health benefits, including its skin-protective properties. Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA): Kokum is rich in HCA, a compound known for its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants combat free radicals, protecting skin from oxidative stress and premature aging while promoting a healthier, more radiant complexion. They help neutralise damage caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution Garcinol: These are polyisoprenyl benzophenones found in kokum, known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They help soothe irritated skin and prevent bacterial infections. Vitamin C: Kokum contains a good amount of vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing sagging and wrinkles. B-complex Vitamins: Kokum also contains various B-complex vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine, which contribute to overall skin health and function. Vitamin E: Kokum is a good source of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that helps nourish and protect the skin from damage caused by environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution. Essential fatty acids: Kokum butter/oil contains essential fatty acids like omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9, which help maintain the skin's lipid barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated. Also Read: An expert guide to reverse grey hair with natural remedies Using kokum for skin-lightening and skincare Kokum, a hidden gem in the world of skincare, offers a range of lesser-known techniques for achieving skin lightening: Kokum butter brightening balm: Craft a potent skin-lightening balm using kokum butter as the star ingredient. Melt kokum butter and blend it with a few drops of rosehip seed oil, renowned for its skin-rejuvenating properties. Incorporate a pinch of licorice root powder, known for its ability to inhibit melanin production. Apply this balm nightly to dark spots and areas of uneven pigmentation to gradually lighten and brighten the skin. Kokum infusion elixir: Create a skin-lightening elixir by infusing kokum oil with skin-brightening botanicals. Heat kokum oil gently and infuse it with crushed mulberry leaves, prized for their natural skin-lightening effects. Allow the mixture to steep for several hours, then strain and store in a dark glass bottle. Apply this infusion to cleansed skin before bedtime to fade dark spots and promote a more luminous complexion. Kokum glow mask: Whip up a revitalising glow mask using kokum powder and potent brightening agents. Combine kokum powder with a tablespoon of raw honey, known for its hydrating and exfoliating properties. Add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice, rich in Vitamin C to enhance skin radiance. Apply this mask to clean skin, let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Use weekly to visibly reduce dark spots and reveal a brighter, more even skin tone. Kokum soothing serum: Create a calming serum using kokum oil as a base. Blend kokum oil with a few drops of chamomile essential oil, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. Add a touch of lavender essential oil for its soothing scent and additional skin-calming benefits. Apply this serum to irritated or inflamed areas to reduce redness and promote skin healing. Kokum radiance scrub: Formulate an exfoliating scrub to reveal brighter, smoother skin using kokum butter. Mix melted kokum butter with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Lemon juice acts as a natural exfoliant and skin brightener, while kokum butter provides moisturisation. Gently massage this scrub onto damp skin in circular motions, then rinse off with warm water to unveil a radiant complexion. Kokum herbal toner: Craft a refreshing toner infused with kokum extract to balance and revitalize the skin. Steep dried chamomile flowers and green tea leaves in hot water until fully infused, then strain the mixture and let it cool. Add a few drops of kokum extract to the cooled herbal infusion. Transfer the toner to a spray bottle and spritz onto clean skin or apply with a cotton pad after cleansing to tighten pores and enhance skin brightness. Also Read: Expert beauty guide to keep your makeup sweat proof this summer How do these nutritional properties specifically benefit the skin? Kokum boasts a plethora of benefits for skin care, including its remarkable contribution to skin lightening. Firstly, its high antioxidant content shields the skin from oxidative stress, thus thwarting premature aging and preserving a youthful visage. By neutralising free radicals, kokum effectively combats environmental aggressors like UV radiation and pollution, which can cause fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Furthermore, kokum's anti-inflammatory properties work wonders in calming irritated skin, reducing redness, and alleviating swelling, thereby promoting a clearer and more even complexion. Additionally, kokum's antibacterial properties play a crucial role in maintaining skin health by fending off acne-causing bacteria and preventing other bacterial infections. Its rich reserves of Vitamin C further contribute to skin lightening by stimulating collagen production, which enhances skin elasticity and firmness. Moreover, kokum's moisturising prowess cannot be overstated. The fatty acids present in kokum butter or oil deliver deep hydration to the skin, improving moisture retention and preventing dryness and roughness. As a result, kokum not only lightens the skin but also nourishes it from within, promoting a luminous and radiant appearance. Through its ability to promote skin cell regeneration, kokum facilitates the repair of damaged skin tissues, thus enhancing overall skin texture and radiance for a truly revitalised complexion. Lesser-known benefits of kokum that you need to know 1. Kokum butter/oil can be used to treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. 2. It can help alleviate sunburn and promote faster healing. 3. Regular use may improve skin tone and complexion. Also Read: Discover top 5 niacin-rich foods you must include in your diet What mechanisms of kokum make it effective in tackling skin issues? Kokum butter and oil excel in addressing dryness and dehydration of the skin through several mechanisms. Firstly, their exceptional emollient properties deeply penetrate the skin, effectively softening and smoothing dry areas. Secondly, the high concentration of essential fatty acids in kokum forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss and ensuring long-lasting hydration. This barrier function not only locks in moisture but also shields the skin from external aggressors that can exacerbate dryness. Additionally, kokum's emollient nature contributes to reducing roughness and flakiness associated with dry skin conditions, promoting a supple and nourished complexion. Kokum contains compounds like hydroxycitric acid (HCA) and citric acid, which exhibit mild bleaching properties. These compounds help in lightening dark spots, blemishes and hyperpigmentation, gradually evening out the skin tone. Also, the fruit is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, which helps in the repair of skin cells and prevent skin darkening. Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist or your physician for personalised guidance.
23 April,2024 09:30 AM IST | Mumbai | Ainie RizviThe pressure that we face while at work has a big impact on our sleep quality. There is a strong correlation and mutual impact between work, productivity and sleep. While working efficiently frequently culminates in better quality sleep, sleep deprivation can reduce work performance and productivity. Working long hours can result in burnout and chronic stress, which can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion as well as a loss of motivation. According to the ResMed Sleep Survey 2024, the top cause of disrupted sleep in India is work-related stress, with 42 per cent of respondents stating it as what keeps them up at night. Workplace stress may also have a negative cognitive impact on sleeping patterns. Insufficient sleep can lead to problems at work, including bad decision-making, a limited attention span, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. It is imperative to put emphasis on healthy sleep practices in order to increase productivity. Here are some recommendations for improving your quality of sleep and disconnecting from work while at home: Developing work-life balance: Avoid bringing your job to the bed as the bed should be an escape from the grind of work. It is also essential that you turn off laptops after work, as it allows the mind to unwind as blue light from electronics has the ability to suppress melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. The Sleep Survey highlights 25 per cent of Indian respondents saying screens and electronic devices keep them up at night and it is of the utmost importance to try to put electronics away an hour or more before going to bed. Taking charge of work-related stress: Establishing realistic deadlines, delegating assignments, and prioritising responsibilities are all ways that people can manage work-related stress. Recognising and documenting stressful circumstances can help individuals better understand stressors and enhance the quality of your sleep. Maintaining sleep hygiene: Sleep quality and quantity can be influenced by a variety of factors, including your lifestyle, surroundings, schedule and routines. Setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time will help in creating a regular sleep rhythm, which will improve your sleep hygiene. It can help achieve better work-life balance and happiness by increasing your motivation, concentration, and resilience. Diagnosing sleep disorders: When a person struggles with consistently getting enough sleep due to an illness or sleep disorders, the quality of their sleep is negatively impacted. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is one such sleep disorder that has been connected to excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). It is crucial to understand if one is suffering from a sleep disorder and to recognise and treat the disorder promptly. Opting for relaxation techniques: Implementing relaxation techniques into a daily routine may help calm one's mind and body, resulting in more restful sleep. Progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, and meditation are all beneficial approaches to promoting unwinding. The association between sufficient sleep and healthy well-being has been continually displayed. The best approach to managing sleep issues is to achieve seven to nine hours of sleep per night. It is advised to speak with a healthcare provider if you or a loved one shows symptoms of fatigue or excessive daytime sleepiness. (Dr Sibasish Dey, Head, Medical Affairs, South Asia, ResMed) Also Read: What Taylor Swift should know about anxiety supplement L-theanine
22 April,2024 07:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhen Taylor Swift announced to the world that she was taking L-theanine, a "natural supplement to help with stress and anxiety," Swifties weren't the only ones to sit up and take notice. Years later, despite only limited research on this substance's benefits, online retailers offer a wide range of different L-Theanine products in powder or capsule form. Most products promise a calming effect, less anxiety and stress, as well as better concentration and sleep. But does this amino acid, mainly found in green tea leaves, really mean reduced stress levels? Previous research has suggested that this green tea amino acid may help with anxiety and stress. "L-theanine significantly increases activity in the alpha frequency band which indicates that it relaxes the mind without inducing drowsiness," one study in 2008 suggested. And yet authors believe further research is also needed to clinically prove any potential benefits. What's more, any potential risks or side effects from prolonged usage of this supplement have not been clinically ruled out. Advertising health-related claims in the European Union is not permitted for this amino acid, and the European Commission EFSA has denied claims submitted for L-theanine such as improved concentration and relaxation. Interest in L-theanine has spiked since Taylor Swift wrote about it in 2019. "I take L-theanine, which is a natural supplement to help with stress and anxiety," she said in a piece for Elle magazine. The good news is that there are plenty of other - clinically proven - ways to help with stress and anxiety. These include special breathing techniques and meditation exercises such as the "body scan" technique or the method of progressive muscle relaxation. And if you're lucky sometimes you work out on your own how to get rid of all those fears - like Swift herself did in "Out of the Woods" when she found out that the monsters turned out to be just trees. Also Read: How higher cortisol levels impact skin's barrier function This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 April,2024 07:03 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
