Category: 8. Health
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Study Finds Link Between Higher Aerobic Fitness, Lower Body Fat, and Reduced Anxiety and Depression in Children – geneonline.com
- Study Finds Link Between Higher Aerobic Fitness, Lower Body Fat, and Reduced Anxiety and Depression in Children geneonline.com
- Study Finds Link Between Childhood Obesity and Increased Anxiety and Depression Rates geneonline.com
- Staying active as a teenager protects against depression, study finds AOL.com
- Body composition and fitness linked to anxiety and depression in preadolescent children Contemporary Pediatrics
- Fitness, Lean Mass Linked to Reduced Anxiety and Depression in Children Pharmacy Times
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Anesthesiologist shares 5 warning signs indicating heart disease: ‘See doctor immediately if chest pain spreads to jaw’
Your heart often sends subtle warning signals when something isn’t quite right. Recognising these signs early can help detect underlying heart conditions before they become serious, making timely medical attention crucial.
Watch out for these warning symptoms that could indicate heart disease.(Twitter/PsychiatristCNS) Also Read | Cardiologist reveals 1 daily habit that’s putting ‘young, healthy people in their 20s and 30s suddenly in heart failure’
Dr Kunal Sood, an anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine physician, has shared four symptoms that could be warning signals from your heart that indicate underlying complications.
In an Instagram video posted on August 6, the doctor stresses that while these signs – ranging from pounding heartbeats to chest pain – do not always confirm serious heart conditions, persisting or clustered symptoms are red flags that deserve to be checked out. He also adds that early detection of these symptoms can help with quick diagnosis and treatment, preventing complications related to delayed intervention which actually ends up saving lives.
Swelling in ankles or legs
That uncomfortable swelling in your ankles or legs by day’s end could be an early warning sign of heart failure. The swelling is caused by fluid build up, also known as edema, and could point towards heart failure or even kidney disease. According to Dr Sood, “In heart failure, weak pumping causes blood to back up in the legs.”
Irregular heartbeat
Fluttering, pounding or irregular heartbeat can point towards arrhythmia, a problem with your heartbeat’s rate or rhythm which can cause your heart to beat too fast or too slow. Dr Sood explains that atrial fibrillation is the most common form of arrhythmia and “raises stroke risk fivefold and can also cause heart failure or cognitive decline if untreated.”
Chest pain radiating to arm and jaw
Dr. Sood warns that if you are experiencing chest pain that radiates towards your arm and jaw, especially affecting the left side, it is a “classic sign of angina or heart attack.” He describes the pain as “heavy, crushing, or pressure-like” which has a tendency of spreading towards your neck, back or arms.
Fainting during palpitations
This condition is known as cardiac syncope – a temporary loss of consciousness caused when the heart fails to pump enough blood to the brain resulting in a lack of oxygen, according to the American Heart Association. Dr. Sood said, “This strongly suggests a rhythm problem like ventricular tachycardia or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.” He shares this accounts for approximately 15 percent of fainting cases.
Also Read | Doctor reveals 6 PCOS supplements that actually work and how they benefit hormonal health: Cinnamon, omega 3 and more
Warning signs that should not be ignored
Dr Sood lists the following warning signs as top priority and recommends seeing a doctor immediately if they occur or don’t go away:
- Severe crushing chest pain that spreads to the arm or jaw.
- You experience palpitations that lead to dizziness, breathlessness, or fainting spells.
- Worsening swelling, particularly when accompanied by shortness of breath.
- You can feel your pulse getting fast or irregular for the first time.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
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Common allergy spray slashes COVID-19 risk in surprising trial
The trial, led by Professor Robert Bals, Director of the Department of Internal Medicine V at Saarland University Medical Center and Professor of Internal Medicine at Saarland University, divided the 450 participants into two groups. The treatment group of 227 individuals used an azelastine nasal spray three times a day over a 56-day period. During that same period, the 223 participants in the control group used a placebo spray three times a day. Robert Bals summarized the key finding as follows: ‘During the observation period, 2.2% of the participants in the azelastine group became infected with SARS-CoV-2; in the placebo group, it was 6.7% — three times as many.’ All infections were confirmed by PCR testing.
In addition to showing a marked reduction in coronavirus infections, the azelastine group also displayed fewer symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections, a lower overall number of confirmed respiratory infections, and, unexpectedly, a reduced incidence of rhinovirus infections, another major cause of respiratory illness. In the treatment group, 1.8% developed a rhinovirus infection, compared to 6.3% in the placebo group — a proportion similar to that seen for SARS-CoV-2.
Azelastine nasal spray has been available for decades as an over-the-counter treatment for hay fever. Previous in vitro studies on azelastine had already suggested antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses. ‘This clinical trial is the first to demonstrate a protective effect in a real-world setting,’ says Professor Bals.
For Robert Bals, the results suggest practical applications: ‘Azelastine nasal spray could provide an additional easily accessible prophylactic to complement existing protective measures, especially for vulnerable groups, during periods of high infection rates, or before travelling.’ But Professor Bals also stressed the importance of further research: ‘Our results highlight the need for larger, multicentre trials to continue exploring the use of azelastine nasal sprays as an on-demand preventive treatment, and to examine its potential effectiveness against other respiratory pathogens.’
Besides Professor Bals, the randomized, double-blind phase 2 study ‘CONTAIN’ also involved the Institute of Clinical Pharmacy (Professor Thorsten Lehr, Dr. Dominik Selzer), the Institute of Virology (Professor Sigrun Smola), and the Saarbrücken-based pharmaceutical company URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, which sponsored the study and manufactured the investigational product. The Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) contributed through the research groups of Professor Smola and Professor Bals. The project serves as an excellent example of successful collaboration between academic research, industry partners and public health initiatives in the Saarland region.
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Could the keto diet affect males and females differently?
Share on Pinterest A keto diet may affect males and females differently, according to research. Nadine Greeff/Stocksy - A new study in mice found that a ketogenic diet did not accelerate the aging of females, although it did cause males to age more rapidly.
- The authors of the study found that the presence of estrogen in the female mice blocked the aging effect of the diet.
- When males were treated with estrogen, estradiol, and antioxidants, the rapid-aging effects of the diets decreased.
- Further study is required to determine if these effects translate to humans.
The popular ketogenic, or keto, diet may accelerate the aging process, suggest studies in animals. According to a new murine, or mouse, study, this effect of the diet is primarily restricted to males.
The study suggests that estrogen protects female mice consuming a keto diet from the risk of accelerated aging.
The authors of the study say the keto diet produces excess oxidative stress, which speeds up cellular aging through the production of senescent cells. They found that treating the male mice in their study with estrogen or estradiol and antioxidant agents eliminated this rapid cell aging.
“The keto diet is a very low-carbohydrate, high fat way of eating that shifts the body’s primary energy source from carbohydrates to fat. Under normal conditions, carbohydrates are the body’s preferred fuel, especially for the brain,” explained Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com.
When the body lacks the carbohydrates it normally uses for fuel, it breaks down dietary fats into molecules called “ketones.” She said these “serve as an alternative energy source for both the brain and the body.”
To reduce the intake of carbohydrates and support the supply of fats, therefore, the keto diet promotes consumption of “high fat, very low-carbohydrate foods such as animal proteins, full-fat dairy, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables,” according to Routhenstein.
People on the keto diet are encouraged to eat fewer carbohydrate-rich foods such as grains, fruits, starchy vegetables, legumes, and added sugars.
As a long-term eating regimen, the keto diet is associated with several risks.
Routhenstein noted the keto diet limits “fruits, whole grains, some vegetables, and legumes, limiting intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can affect negatively gut, brain, and heart health.”
There are also concerns regarding increased cholesterol and soft arterial plaques, strained kidney and liver function, and an increased risk of bone loss.
In addition, the diet may lead to disordered eating and social isolation.
The keto diet has also been linked to increased oxidative stress, and the resulting increase in cellular senescence was investigated in the current study.
Much of the research regarding diets has focused on males’ responses to their effects. This is at least partially due to the relative complexities of female and male bodies and how they may affect responses to diets. An example would be the dynamic changes that occur within the female body across a woman’s estrous cycle, as opposed to a man’s body, which appears to be hormonally much the same all the time.
Jason Ng, MD, BA, teaches endocrinology and metabolism in the Department of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh.
“It would be interesting,’ he said, “to assess the effects of diet on male and female sex hormones, such as estrogen for women and testosterone for men, and how diets may play a role in increasing or decreasing levels to a certain extent, and how that impacts the role these hormones have on their specific genders’ physiology.”
Ng noted that the insights suggested in this study of mice, however, must be viewed as preliminary.
“Although we can gain insight into metabolic processes through studies defining effects of a keto diet in mice, we do not yet extrapolate those findings in humans,” Ng said.
“There is much more heterogeneity in the findings of effects in humans, and gender effects are likely more varied as well, compared to mice data across genders,” he noted.
“If these results can be replicated in human beings, there is the possibility of this specific effect reducing the age acceleration in males, although this would, of course, have to be weighed against known side effects of estrogen therapy in men,” said Ng.
He added that it is unknown whether this therapy would need to be continued after the person had discontinued a keto diet.
Considering that the mechanism behind the increase in senescent cells appears in the study to be oxidative stress, might a purely antioxidant therapy be similarly effective for men on a keto diet?
“I think a purely anti-oxidant approach could also help reduce the aging effect to some degree,” hypothesized Ng.
“Maybe not as much of an influence as estrogen,” he suggested, “but certainly something that would be worthy of investigating more, as this approach could have a potentially lower side effect profile.”
“In some cases, particularly for specific medical conditions like epilepsy, a medically supervised keto or modified low carb approach can be beneficial,” Routhenstein pointed out.
“A cyclical or more flexible low carb plan may also work for certain individuals when guided by a qualified healthcare provider,” she said.
Keto diet may not be heart-healthy in the long term
“[T]o remain in true ketosis, carbohydrate intake must stay extremely low, something that is very difficult to maintain long term without compromising nutritional adequacy. As a cardiovascular dietitian and based on the current research, I do not recommend a ketogenic diet as a long-term heart-healthy strategy.”
— Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD“The potential risks outweigh the benefits, especially when more balanced, sustainable approaches are available and have been shown to improve heart health, inflammation, and longevity,” Routhenstein concluded.
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Harvard-trained gastroenterologist reveals 3 foods that help reduce liver fat and support detox |
Fatty liver disease is becoming increasingly common worldwide, often linked to poor diet, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. What makes it particularly concerning is that it can progress silently without clear symptoms, while still causing long-term harm to liver function. The positive news is that certain foods can help reduce liver fat and support overall metabolic health. According to Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, adding antioxidant- and anti-inflammatory-rich foods to your diet can significantly protect the liver. He shared on Instagram that three simple dietary additions may promote healthier liver function.
Why reducing liver fat matters
The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs, responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient processing. Excess fat accumulation in the liver, known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), can lead to inflammation, scarring, and even long-term complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer.Since fatty liver often develops silently, nutrition and lifestyle modifications are essential tools for prevention and management. Dr Sethi emphasises that choosing foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds can go a long way in protecting liver cells and enhancing detoxification pathways.
3 foods that help reduce liver fat and support detox
Healthy beverages: Coffee, tea, and matcha
The first category on Dr Sethi’s list is healthy beverages, particularly black coffee, black tea, green tea, and matcha. These drinks are more than just energy-boosters; they are packed with bioactive compounds that directly benefit liver health.
- Black coffee contains caffeine and chlorogenic acids, which have been linked to lower levels of liver enzymes and reduced progression of liver fibrosis. Regular moderate consumption has even been shown to cut the risk of fatty liver disease.
- Green tea and matcha are rich in catechins, a type of antioxidant that may reduce fat deposition in the liver while improving insulin sensitivity.
- Black tea provides polyphenols that help protect liver cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.
According to Dr Sethi, incorporating these drinks daily—without added sugar or cream—is a simple yet powerful step for liver health.
Turmeric: A natural anti-inflammatory powerhouse
Next on his list is turmeric, the golden spice widely celebrated in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support liver health.Chronic inflammation is one of the major contributors to liver damage. Curcumin works by reducing oxidative stress, calming inflammation pathways, and even supporting bile production, which helps metabolise fats more efficiently.He shared on Instagram that consuming half to one teaspoon of turmeric daily can offer protective benefits. Turmeric can be easily added to curries, soups, smoothies, or warm milk (golden milk). Pairing turmeric with black pepper enhances curcumin absorption in the body.
The three Bs: Berries, broccoli, and beets
Dr Sethi rounds off his recommendations with what he calls the “three Bs”—berries, broccoli, and beets. These plant-based foods provide a concentrated source of antioxidants and nutrients that protect the liver.
- Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that neutralise free radicals and protect the liver from oxidative damage.
- Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, is high in fibre and sulforaphane, which activates detoxification enzymes and supports the liver’s ability to process toxins.
- Beetroot is packed with betalains, plant pigments with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They also improve blood flow and aid natural detoxification processes.
According to Dr Sethi, making space for these three Bs in your meals can provide lasting protection for liver and metabolic health.
Natural ways to support liver health beyond diet
While these three food groups are highly beneficial, Dr Sethi stresses that liver health depends on overall lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding excess alcohol are essential for protecting the liver. Processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats should be limited, as they can worsen fatty liver disease.In his Instagram caption, he wrote: “3 foods to reduce liver fat. Science shows these foods can support your liver and overall metabolic health—worth adding to your routine.”Fatty liver may not always show symptoms, but it can silently affect your health over time. According to Dr Sethi, adding antioxidant- and anti-inflammatory-rich foods such as black coffee or tea, turmeric, berries, broccoli, and beetroot can reduce liver fat and strengthen long-term liver function. He shared on Instagram that small, consistent dietary choices like these can make a meaningful difference to overall well-being.Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.Also Read: Early signs of fatty liver in your hands: Subtle changes you shouldn’t ignore
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Savvy Therapists Are Starting To Provide Therapy For Those Contending With AI Psychosis But Not Everyone Is Convinced – Forbes
- Savvy Therapists Are Starting To Provide Therapy For Those Contending With AI Psychosis But Not Everyone Is Convinced Forbes
- They thought they were making technological breakthroughs. It was an AI-sparked delusion CNN
- The dangers of living in an artificial reality bupipedream.com
- Delusions and hallucinations: The dark side of AI chatbots Euronews.com
- A new framework for navigating AI wisely without losing ourselves. Psychology Today
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Study Finds Over Half of Women With Hyperemesis Gravidarum Considered Pregnancy Termination – geneonline.com
- Study Finds Over Half of Women With Hyperemesis Gravidarum Considered Pregnancy Termination geneonline.com
- Don’t call it morning sickness: ‘At times in my pregnancy I wondered if this was death coming for me’ – podcast The Guardian
- ‘Dismissed as a normal part of pregnancy’: Debilitating condition making pregnant women consider termination 9News
- Severe pregnancy nausea takes mental and medical toll Milton Ulladulla Times
- Extreme Morning Sickness Leading Women to Consider Abortion, Study Finds Newsweek
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Study Links Impaired Spatial Orientation in Virtual Environments to Higher Alzheimer’s Dementia Risk – geneonline.com
- Study Links Impaired Spatial Orientation in Virtual Environments to Higher Alzheimer’s Dementia Risk geneonline.com
- Impaired spatial orientation found in older adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease News-Medical
- What your spatial awareness reveals about your dementia risk BBC Science Focus Magazine
- How you MOVE could reveal an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease – long before memory loss The US Sun
- Study Finds Link Between Impaired Spatial Orientation in Virtual Tests and Higher Alzheimer’s Risk geneonline.com
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