As Mumbai's schools begin classes, children and parents are going to get busy with their academics. While it won't take long for that to pick up pace in the coming months, the monsoon season looms large and so does the many sicknesses that come with it. With monsoon and sickness going hand-in-hand, people often get sick. While adults can manage by themselves, children more often than not get affected because of lower immunity. Couple that with them enduring a busy schedule that not only involves going to school and studying, but also indulging in physical activities like playing sports, nutrition plays an important role in their lives. At such times, Mumbai's health experts say the need for parents to take care of their child's health is of the utmost importance. The easiest way to do that is by making sure they eat the right kind of food. Keeping this in mind, mid-day spoke to Dr G. M. Shanbhag, consultant pediatric - critical care, KIMS Hospitals in Thane, and Suvarna Sawant, chief Dietitian and HoD, clinical nutrition and dietetics, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Vile Parle West to dissect the need to pay attention to children's nutrition during the monsoon. They not only highlight why it is important but also help suggest meal plans that would help them keep sickness at bay. What are the common monsoon sicknesses that affect children? Shanbhag: Viral infections (the common cold and flu), mosquito-borne illnesses (dengue, malaria, chikungunya), leptospirosis (from urine of infected animals), and infections from contaminated water and food (gastroenteritis, jaundice, typhoid, cholera) are the most common infections. In addition, fungal infections of the skin are significantly more common due to the damp conditions. As the surroundings are humid, moulds get a foothold and can trigger asthma-like symptoms. Such symptoms may also arise from increased pollen. Sawant: During the monsoon, children become more vulnerable to a variety of infections due to climatic changes in their nutritional intake. The most common illnesses seen in this season include gastrointestinal infections like diarrhoea and typhoid, viral fevers, cold and flu, dengue, and skin anomalies. Since children are very active during this time, how can their immunity be affected with sicknesses? Shanbhag: Children's immune systems are still developing and they are more vulnerable in a general sense. Add to it, monsoons come with higher humidity levels, and higher exposure to moulds and other allergens. This paves the way for respiratory tract infections. Sawant: Children have higher metabolic rates and growth demands. They require a sustainable intake of macro and micronutrients to maintain immunity and ward off the infections. But as we have observed, most children, especially those aged 5–12, do not have a steady intake of crucial micronutrients like iron, zinc, folate, vitamin A, and C. These nutrients are extremely crucial in maintaining a healthy immune function. Children with such nutrient gaps are more prone to seasonal infections, affecting their health, energy and educational progress. Once affected by infections, there is an associated disturbance in children's fragile immunity, and that can delay the recovery, prolonging the illnesses. What are the foods that children can eat to keep the sicknesses at bay, and beat the sickness respectively? Shanbhag: A balanced diet and adequate water intake are the key to avoiding monsoon-related sicknesses. The food should be freshly and hygienically prepared, and the water should be filtered and preferably boiled. Plenty of vegetables (appropriately washed and cooked) and fruits (adequately washed and peeled) provide good immunity in these monsoon times. If there is a sickness affecting the child, these same measures, in addition to prompt medical attention, provide for a faster cure. Sawant: To help children build a healthy immunity, parents should include a wide range of nutrient-rich foods, especially during the monsoon. Fresh seasonal vegetables like bottle gourd (lauki), ridge gourd (turai), pumpkin, and ash gourd are excellent—they’re hydrating, low in fat and high in vitamins A and C. Adding fruits like guava, papaya, and amla boosts vitamin C intake naturally, which helps fight off common infections. Fermented foods like curd provide beneficial probiotics that improve gut immunity—especially helpful when the risk of diarrhoea is high. How can parents make the school breakfast or lunch interesting with seasonal ingredients? Share meal ideas Shanbhag: Seasonal fruits such as mangoes, plums, cherries, and pomegranate seeds can be eaten as usual, as they have appealing colours and tastes, and children enjoy the sweet and sour flavours, as they come from these. These fruits can be incorporated in sweets such as kheer, or in curds or lassi. Partially ripe mangoes can be cooked in curries and taste delicious. Vegetables such as beans, carrots, and peas can be incorporated into soups and khichdi. Lady fingers (bhindi), beans, and carrots can be stir-fried. Beetroots, carrots, and peas can be added to parathas and upma. These make breakfast or lunch colourful. Cutting foods in shapes such as cubes, crescents and smileys of fruits or salads also makes the food attractive. Children can't resist them during their school breaks. Simply decorating a plate with a variety of coloured foods, such as beans, carrots, cucumbers, papaya, pomegranate seeds, and cherries, gives a vibrant look and encourages children. This can be their fruit and salad party. These foods provide lots of vitamins, minerals and plenty of water, which boost immunity. Sawant: Try to give them a well-rounded tiffin, which can be both exciting and nourishing. Vegetable poha with grated carrots and coriander, or a stuffed thepla with bottle gourd and paneer paired with a seasonal fruit can be great options. Millet-based idlis with coconut chutney or a bowl of moong dal khichdi with spinach can also be nutrient rich and filling. Using mildly spiced, home-cooked chutneys made from tamarind or mint can make the food both delicious and help with digestion. Finally, what foods should children avoid during the monsoon season? Shanbhag: Children should avoid eating outdoors, as the food is likely contaminated. Even at home, avoid eating raw vegetables and fruits without peeling. Washing vegetables and fruits before consumption is a must. Children should not drink water from unknown sources. Drinking water should be filtered and preferably boiled. Avoid eating junk and packaged foods, as they weaken immunity. Sawant: During monsoons, avoid giving raw leafy greens as they are difficult to clean thoroughly. Uncovered street food, and fried snacks high in oil content. Soft drinks with too much sugar, and packaged foods with artificial additives should be completely avoided. On the other hand, fill the tiffin with colourful, home-cooked foods that combine seasonal produce, whole grains, pulses, and good fats. It will not only build their immunity and look attractive but give them a steady flow of energy and help their attention span in school. Some schools, which provide breakfast and lunch to their students, should incorporate specific guidelines for their kitchens, after consulting trained nutritionists. Nutrition isn’t just about eating more—it’s about eating right for the season.
09 June,2025 07:55 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoMood disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, or mania after the age of 40 may not be just mental health conditions but can precede motor or cognitive symptoms in various neurodegenerative diseases, according to a study on Monday. Growing evidence suggests these late-life mood disorders (LLMDs) could be early warning signs of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, even when they appear years before memory loss or other cognitive symptoms become apparent, said researchers from the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), Japan. The study, published in Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association explored the presence of abnormal tau protein -- a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases -- in the brains of 52 participants with LLMDs and 47 healthy controls. The researchers used advanced brain imaging techniques to examine 52 participants with LLMDs and 47 healthy controls. They employed a positron emission tomography (PET) scan using two different tracers, which can detect various forms of tau protein and amyloid beta accumulation and analysed brain tissue samples from 208 autopsy cases to examine the relationship between late-life mood symptoms and the subsequent development of neurodegenerative diseases. They found that about 50 per cent of participants with LLMDs showed tau accumulation in their brains, compared to only about 15 per cent of healthy controls. Similarly, nearly 29 per cent of participants with LLMDs had detectable amyloid deposits versus just 2 per cent of controls. The autopsy findings further supported these results, showing a significantly higher prevalence of diverse tau protein-related pathologies in individuals who had experienced late-life mania or depression. “Because most of the participants with LLMDs in our study had no or mild cognitive decline, these results support the evidence that neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and non-Alzheimer’s tau-related pathologies, can initially manifest as psychiatric symptoms,” said Dr. Shin Kurose from QST. Further, many participants also had tau accumulation in the frontal regions of the brain -- crucial for emotional regulation and cognitive function. The study revealed that these abnormal proteins could be detected years before traditional cognitive symptoms of dementia appeared. As revealed by the autopsy cases, mood symptoms preceded cognitive or motor symptoms by an average of 7.3 years. Timely identification of late-life depression and bipolar disorder would allow for earlier intervention with disease-modifying treatments, the team 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
09 June,2025 06:05 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe food that one consumes daily impacts several areas of health and wellness directly or indirectly, and reproductive health is no different. While awareness about the relationship between nutrition and fertility is gradually growing, a lesser-known link is the negative impact of vitamin deficiencies on the Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), say experts. In women, this hormone reflects the ovarian reserve and fertility potential. If certain vitamins are lacking in the body, AMH levels may drop, impacting reproductive planning and success with fertility treatments. According to experts, deficiencies in nutrients such as Vitamin D, B12, and folic acid have been found to influence hormonal balance, egg quality, and overall reproductive function. Dr Bushra Khan, who is a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Kharadi, Pune, shares, “When essential vitamins like Vitamin D or B12 are deficient, it can affect the body’s ability to produce optimal levels of AMH, which is critical for understanding a woman’s fertility potential. However, this can be improved through timely nutritional correction.” What causes vitamin deficiencies? Before taking correctional measures, it is important to know the causes behind vitamin deficiencies and the signs that may help one identify the issue. “Vitamin deficiency is common among women aged 25-30, especially those with irregular eating habits, strict diets, or high levels of stress. It can also result from digestive issues that affect absorption, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders. Symptoms can be fatigue, hair thinning, pale skin, low immunity, and menstrual irregularities,” informs Dr Khan. If left unchecked, this nutritional deficiency may cause hormonal imbalances, impaired fertility, and poor outcomes in pregnancy or fertility treatments. Managing vitamin deficiencies Regular blood tests, a balanced diet, and supplementation (if recommended by an expert) are key to addressing this issue. Recommending measures to maintain optimal vitamin levels in the body, Dr Preethika Shetty, who is the consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Kharadi, says, “To be able to support the fertility hormone, women should have a diet loaded with green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and dairy, get regular sunlight for at least 20 minutes in the morning for maintaining appropriate vitamin D levels, exercise and de-stress by doing yoga and meditation, opt for blood and hormone tests to track your levels.” By addressing these deficiencies early, women can potentially improve AMH levels. It is recommended to consult a fertility specialist for timely evaluations and management of potential issues that arise with vitamin deficiencies. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a medical expert for personalised guidance.
09 June,2025 02:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMigraines and chronic headaches aren’t just “in your head” — they’re real, debilitating, and often profoundly misunderstood. While stress and excessive screen time are commonly blamed, millions suffer due to a wide range of underlying reasons. However, with a bit of self-awareness, consistent lifestyle habits, and medical support, they can be managed. Every year, Migraine and Headache Awareness Month is observed in June. While there are many misconceptions about it, let’s shift the conversation from stigma to strategy. Medical dissect migraines to help you identify the type of your headache and aid better management with evidence-based lifestyle modifications. Decoding your headache could be the first step to reclaiming your peace of mind — and your life. Common triggers for headachesAlong with stress and screen time, there are several other factors responsible for headaches. Dr. Pradyumna J. Oak, director of neurology at Centre for Neurosciences, Nanavati Max Hospital, Mumbai outlines commonly recognised triggers for different types of headaches, including migraines: 1. Poor postureThis is common particularly in the case of desk jobs that require one to maintain your head in a forward position for extended periods or straining neck muscles can lead to tension-type headaches. 2. Blue light from devicesSome studies also indicate that blue light emitted from digital devices can disturb the sleep by reducing melatonin levels—our natural sleep hormone. These disrupted sleep patterns have been linked to migraines and tension headaches. 3. Flashing lightsFor some individuals, extreme visuals may act as triggers. Bright or flashing lights, high contrast patterns, have the potential to overstimulate certain areas of the brain in those prone to migraines. 4. Extended use of screens in proximityActivities that involve prolonged focusing at a close distance, such as detailed reading or extended computer tasks or even overuse of smart phones can cause strain on the eyes, resulting in headaches and eye discomfort.Differentiating between tension headaches, migraines, and other types The most important way of managing headaches is to recognise its type. Tension headaches typically involve a steady, dull pain on both sides of the head, often described as a feeling of pressure or tightness, similar to something wrapped tightly around your forehead. These usually are not triggered by nausea or sensitivity to light or sound. Migraines are usually more intense, causing throbbing or pulsating pain. These are often concentrated on one side of the head. Migraine sufferers often experience nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to lights and noises, and their symptoms often worsen with physical activity. Cervicogenic headaches originate from neck problems. Located to one side and worsening with specific neck movements or postures, they're often accompanied by neck stiffness or limited neck motion. Tracking your headache for diagnosis and managementMany people who experience frequent headaches often try to pinpoint their triggers. This can involve avoiding certain foods, minimising exposure to bright or flickering lights, or even adjusting their posture while working. “If you happen to have multiple episodes of headaches, try to maintain a diary, specifying date, time and duration of the episode. This can help the doctor come to an accurate diagnosis and recommend effective treatments,” recommends Oak. He also suggests keeping a track of the specifics such as where it occurs on your head, the kind of sensation—whether throbbing, sharp, or a dull pressure—and its severity. It's also important to learn strategies for managing stress levels and coping with changes in routine. “Pay close attention to additional symptoms such as nausea, heightened sensitivity to light or sound, or any visual disturbances. Furthermore, diligently record the treatment method you used for each headache episode and its efficacy; this detailed information will significantly assist your neurologist in pinpointing the most effective course of action for your condition,” he concludes. Evidence-based strategies for headache prevention beyond screen time and stress managementManaging headaches and migraines usually requires a multifaceted approach, integrating significant lifestyle adjustments alongside professional medical consultation. In addition to managing stress and minimising time spent in front of the screen, Dr Aditya Kulkarni, consultant of neurology at Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road shares evidence-based strategies that can reduce head pain frequency and intensity:1. Maintain adequate hydration: Dehydration is a known precipitant for migraines, especially in the warmer seasons. Drinking water all day is very important to warding off headache from dehydration.2. Establish consistent routines: Disruptions to the body’s internal rhythm—due to haphazard sleep schedules, missed meals, and erratic daily routines—may trigger headaches. Keeping a routine of regular sleep and consistent daily habits can help maintain synchronisation of biological rhythms, minimising those triggers.3. Identify and avoid dietary triggers: There are certain foods that can contribute to migraines, such as aged cheese, processed meats, caffeine, alcohol and artificial sweeteners for some individuals. Keeping a food journal may identify specific dietary culprits.4. Limit exposure to heat and sunlight: Over-exposure to heat and sun is one of the most common environmental triggers. Taking proper sun protection and staying indoors during the peak heat of the day can be preventive.5. Engage in regular physical activity: Moderate and consistent exercising — such as walking, stretching or yoga — can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. However, strenuous activity at the time of, or near a migraine onset should be avoided.6. Review medication with a healthcare provider: People who have frequent or severe migraines may benefit from preventive medications. These are either beta-blockers, antiepileptics, or one of the newer anti-migraine specific drugs. Patients should consult with a physician regarding any change in therapy. When should you see a doctor?While most headaches are self-limited and benign, some can be warning signals of more serious disorders. Kulkarni recommends consulting a medical professional if you experience any of the following warning signs:1. A sudden, severe headache that reaches peak intensity within seconds to minutes, often described as a ‘thunderclap’ headache.2. New-onset headache in individuals over the age of 50, or a noticeable change in headache pattern.3. Headache with associated neurologic symptoms, eg., confusion, vision loss, weakness, numbness, or problems with speech.4. Headache not improving with over-the-counter medications.5. Headaches that occur with fever, stiff neck, rash, or in association with recent trauma to the head.6. Headaches that frequently awaken from sleep or cause disability even the day after. “In these instances, it is important to obtain immediate medical care to rule out more serious health issues including bleeding into the brain, infection or neurologic disease,” he cautions.
09 June,2025 01:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalPeople can improve their health through dietary and lifestyle changes even if they do not lose weight, according to an international study. The research, conducted by the universities of Ben-Gurion (Israel), Harvard (US), and Leipzig (Germany), focused on individuals described as "weight loss resistant" -- those who adopt healthy habits but struggle to shed pounds, Xinhua news agency reported. “We have been conditioned to equate weight loss with health, and weight loss-resistant individuals are often labeled as failures,” said lead author Anat Yaskolka Meir, postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard Chan School. “Our findings reframe how we define clinical success. People who do not lose weight can improve their metabolism and reduce their long-term risk for disease. That’s a message of hope, not failure,” Meir added. Published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, the study challenges the long-standing belief that weight loss is the primary sign of a successful diet. Researchers found that even participants who did not lose weight showed measurable improvements in key health indicators. The study tracked 761 adults between 18 to 24 months. All participants followed lifestyle changes without taking supplements or medications and were assigned to healthy diets. Participants also received free gym access and exercise guidance. By the end of the trial, approximately one-third of the participants had not lost weight, despite closely following the programme. However, they showed improvements in metabolic health, including higher levels of "good" HDL cholesterol, lower levels of leptin (a hormone primarily produced by fat cells), and reductions in abdominal fat, confirmed through MRI scans. Researchers also identified 12 genetic markers that may influence whether a person is likely to lose weight through lifestyle changes, an insight that could help personalise future diet plans. The findings suggest that healthy eating and exercise can provide significant health benefits even without weight loss, including reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes, the researchers 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
09 June,2025 12:58 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSUsing a newly devised, three-dimensional model to study the regeneration of nerve tissue in the nose, researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) and colleagues have discovered that one type of stem cell thought to be dormant may play a more significant role in preserving the sense of smell than originally believed. Unlike cells in the central nervous system, sensory neurons in the nasal cavity have a remarkable ability to regenerate throughout life despite near-constant exposure to the outside environment. Viral infections such as COVID-19, exposure to toxins, or even aging itself can diminish their function or the ability of these cells to replicate, which can lead to a partial or complete loss of smell. The team of researchers devised a new, easy-to-create, three-dimensional olfactory tissue mouse model or organoid to help scientists better study how neurons are continually formed in the nose and why this process might decline in disease and aging. Their research, published recently in Cell Reports Methods, uses this mouse model to show how two types of stem cells in the nose, called horizontal basal cells (HBCs) and globose basal cells (GBCs), communicate and support each other to develop new smell-sensing nerve tissue. "Our research suggests that these two stem cells may be interdependent," says Brian Lin, senior author on the study and a research assistant professor in the Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology. "One type that we thought was largely dormant -- HBCs -- may actually play a crucial role in supporting the production of new neurons and the repair of damaged tissue," added Lin. Using this model, the team identified a specific subpopulation of HBCs, marked by their production of the protein KRT5, that actively support the generation of new olfactory neurons. The researchers observed that these particular HBCs play a key role in the formation of the organoids, and they found that when these cells were selectively depleted from the organoid cultures, the generation of new neurons was significantly impaired. These results suggest that these stem cells, once thought to be dormant, are essential players in the regenerative process. "We also looked at cells from mice of different ages and grew them in the model. We found a decline in the ability of the older mice cells to generate new neurons. We think this is due to a decrease in the GBC population as we age, but we need to do more work to test this hypothesis and if so, develop ways to rejuvenate them," said Lin. Lin says she was dedicated to developing a model that was easy to create in labs with limited funds and equipment. The ultimate goal is to use this mouse-tissue model of olfactory sensory neurons as a pathway to developing a human organoid that can be used to screen drugs to treat people whose sense of smell is significantly diminished or gone. 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.
09 June,2025 10:26 AM IST | Washington DC (USA) | ANIBiomedical scientists have discovered that a genetic mutation associated with Crohn’s disease can worsen iron deficiency and anemia — one of the most common complications experienced by patients with inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. The study led by scientists at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine in the US — performed on serum samples from IBD patients — reported that patients carrying a loss-of-function mutation in the gene PTPN2 (protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 2) exhibit significant disruption in blood proteins that regulate iron levels. This mutation is found in 14-16 per cent of the general population and 19-20 per cent of the IBD population. A loss-of-function mutation is a genetic change that reduces or eliminates the normal function of a gene or its product, a protein. While IBD primarily affects the intestines, it can have effects beyond the gut. Iron deficient anemia is the most prevalent of these effects, contributing to chronic fatigue and reduced quality of life, particularly during disease flare-ups, said the study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. “This discovery sheds light on a critical mechanism that links a patient’s genetics to their ability to absorb and regulate iron, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood and energy levels,” said Declan McCole, a professor of biomedical sciences at UCR who led the study. “Our findings offer an explanation for why some IBD patients remain iron-deficient despite oral supplementation.” When the researchers deleted the PTPN2 gene in mice, the animals developed anemia and were unable to absorb iron effectively. The team found this was due to reduced levels of a key iron-absorbing protein located in the intestinal epithelial cells — the cells responsible for taking up dietary nutrients. “The only way the body can obtain iron is through intestinal absorption from food, making this discovery particularly significant,” said first author Hillmin Lei, a doctoral student in McCole’s lab. Disruption of this pathway by genetic variants like those in PTPN2 could help explain why some IBD patients fail to respond to oral iron therapy, a commonly prescribed treatment for anemia, Lei added. The study is a vital step toward understanding how genetic risk factors for IBD can compound patient symptoms by interfering with nutrient absorption. 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.
08 June,2025 12:36 PM IST | New York | IANSAustralian researchers have pioneered a new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tool to assess the risk of developing type 1 diabetes (T1D). The tool, developed by researchers at Western Sydney University, predicts treatment responses, potentially changing how the disease is diagnosed and managed. The tool utilises an innovative risk score -- Dynamic Risk Score (DRS4C) which can classify individuals as having or not having T1D. It is based on microRNAs -- small RNA molecules measured from blood -- to help accurately capture the changing risk of T1D. "T1D risk prediction is timely, with therapies that can delay T1D progression becoming recognised and available. Since early-onset T1D before the age of 10 years is particularly aggressive and linked to up to 16 years of reduced life expectancy, accurately predicting progression gives doctors a powerful tool to intervene sooner," said Professor Anand Hardikar, lead investigator from the University's School of Medicine and Translational Health Research Institute. In their article published in the journal Nature Medicine, the research analysed molecular data in 5,983 study samples from participants across India, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and the US, to develop DRS4C. By leveraging AI, the researchers enhanced the risk score, which was validated in 662 other participants. Just an hour after therapy, the risk score predicted which individuals with T1D would remain insulin-free. In addition to T1D risk and drug efficacy prediction, the risk score could potentially discriminate T1D from Type 2 diabetes. Dr. Mugdha Joglekar, lead researcher, from the School of Medicine and Translational Health Research Institute at the University, explained the difference between genetic and dynamic risk markers, adding that genetic testing offered a static view of risk. "Genetic markers identify lifelong risk, it's like knowing you live in a flood zone, but dynamic risk scores offer a real-time check on the rising water levels; it reflects current risk rather than a lifelong sentence, allowing for timely and adaptive monitoring without stigma," said Joglekar. --IANS rvt/ 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.
08 June,2025 07:34 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSLove to consume legumes and pulses? Fermenting them can help raise their antioxidant levels, as well as raise their ability to fight diabetes, according to a study. Food scientists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, US, identified the optimal fermentation conditions for pulses --the dried edible seeds of legumes -- that increased their antioxidant and antidiabetic properties and their soluble protein content. In the study, the team fermented pulses obtained from varying concentrations of black beans, black-eyed peas, green split peas, red lentils, and pinto bean flour. The fermentation was done using the bacteria Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v as microorganisms. The results showed that antioxidant activity increased by up to 83 per cent and their capacity to regulate Type 2 diabetes markers increased by 70 per cent. Fermentation also increased the amount of soluble protein in these food items. Red lentils and green split peas showed the greatest improvements in antioxidant scavenging activity and protein solubility. These also demonstrated the greatest modulation of two enzymes that improve insulin metabolism. Lp299v is a probiotic strain "containing microorganisms that support gut health," explained first author Andrea Jimena Valdés-Alvarado, a graduate student at the varsity. "After fermentation, it remains in the digestive process. It will not only preserve the fermented product that you're consuming, but it will also produce these peptides or amino acids that are more easily absorbed than the intact protein in the pulses," Valdés-Alvarado said. Further, Lp299v is also known to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and enhance iron absorption, the team said, in the paper published in the journal Antioxidants. "These pulses contain between 18 per cent and 25 per cent good-quality proteins that can be used alone or as ingredients in other food products. We need to find adequate processing conditions and motivate the food industry to use them in dairy beverages or meat substitutes," said Elvira Gonzalez de Mejia, Professor of food science from the varsity. The researchers stressed the need to explore the sustainability of plant-based diets amid global food insecurity, shortages of natural resources, and climate change. 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.
08 June,2025 07:28 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSFocus on food safety essential to protect health and well-being, said Union Health Minister JP Nadda on World Food Safety Day on Saturday. World Food Safety Day is observed annually on June 7 to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats associated with unsafe food. This year’s theme, ‘Food safety: science in action,’ draws attention to using scientific knowledge as the key to reducing illness, cutting costs, and saving lives. “This World Food Safety Day, we come together to raise awareness about the essential role of safe and hygienic food in safeguarding health and reducing foodborne diseases. Food is the fuel that keeps us going every day. When we focus on food safety, we’re protecting our health and the well-being of families everywhere,” Nadda said, in a post on social media platform X. This World Food Safety Day, we come together to raise awareness about the essential role of safe and hygienic food in safeguarding health and reducing foodborne diseases.Food is the fuel that keeps us going every day. When we focus on food safety, we’re protecting our health… pic.twitter.com/EofI7ktFDn — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) June 7, 2025 “This year's theme celebrates how science and technology is protecting our food quality and safety at every stage,” he added. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in a post on X, noted that “science plays a monumental role in ensuring the food on your plate is safe” “From laboratories that test for quality to research that informs food standards, the power of science helps us make informed choices. Choose wisely, eat safely!” it added. Science plays a monumental role in ensuring the food on your plate is safe? From laboratories that test for quality to research that informs food standards, the power of science helps us make informed choices .Choose wisely, eat safely!#WorldFoodSafetyDay #WFSD2025 pic.twitter.com/hEkmxcr90c — FSSAI (@fssaiindia) June 7, 2025 According to the World Health Organization (WHO), eating food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances such as heavy metals can lead to over 200 diseases. For safer food, the global health body urges individuals to keep food clean, separate raw and cooked food, cook food thoroughly, keep them at safe temperatures, and use safe water and raw materials during the preparation. “On World Food Safety Day, let us commit to safe food practices that protect health and prevent foodborne diseases. Safe food is everyone's responsibility and the foundation of a healthier, stronger, and safer tomorrow,” said Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of Food and Public Distribution, on X. 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
07 June,2025 01:32 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSWomen with early onset of periods, and later menopause -- which means a longer reproductive span -- can have a healthier brain ageing in life, according to a study. The study showed how a woman’s reproductive years may shape brain health later in life and also reduce the risk of dementia. It also suggested the role of oestradiol (or the lack thereof) in the development of dementia. Oestradiol levels rise at puberty, remain high during most of a woman’s reproductive life, and then decline sharply around menopause. This drop in oestradiol has been linked to an increased risk of dementia and other age-related brain conditions. “These findings support the idea that oestradiol -- the most potent and prevalent form of oestrogen during a woman’s reproductive years -- may help protect the brain as it ages,” said lead researcher Eileen Lueders, Associate Professor from the University of Auckland’s School of Psychology. The research may point toward the potential for health interventions such as hormone treatment in the years leading up to menopause and immediately afterward to combat an increased risk of Alzheimer’s for some women. The team applied a machine learning approach to analyse both cross-sectional and longitudinal data from a sample of 1,006 postmenopausal women who underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging twice, approximately 2 years apart. Women with earlier menarche, later menopause, and a longer reproductive span (that is, the time interval between menarche and menopause) showed less brain ageing. While the study, published in the journal GigaScience, adds to the growing evidence that oestradiol may play a protective role in brain health, Luders cautions that the effects were small, and estradiol levels were not directly measured. Other factors -- like genetics, lifestyle, and overall health -- also influence brain ageing. Lueders hopes future studies will include more diverse participants and directly measure hormone levels to better understand how oestradiol and other factors contribute to brain health in women. 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
06 June,2025 04:03 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
