Insomonia

1)      Look for coexisting medical condition, psychiatric disorder, neurologic disease or drug asssociated with insomnia.

2)      Insomnia that last less than three months: acute insomnia, circadian rhythm sleep disorders (jet lag, shift work), and high altitude insomnia.

 

Insomnia that last longer than one month: include inadequate sleep hygiene, psycho-physiological insomnia, idiopathic insomnia, behavioral insomnia of childhood, paradoxical insomnia, and insomnia associated with a variety of medical conditions, psychiatric disorders, neurologic diseases, sleep disorders, medications or drugs.

Acute Insomnia

a.       Acute insomnia lasts for less than three months.

b.      Is temporally related to an identifiable stressor.

c.       Synonyms for acute insomnia include adjustment  insomnia, short-term insomnia, stress related insomnia and transient insomnia.

d.      Reslove when the stressor resloves or when the individual adapts to it.

e.      Stressors can be physical, psychological, psyxhosocial, interpersonal or environmental:

f.        Stressor as mentioned in Vidur Niti: A thief, A lustful person, A person who has lost all his wealth, A person whom has failed to achieve success, A person who is weak and has been attacked by a strong person.

g.       Ayurveda describes sleep as an aggravation of Vata. The causes are mental tension; suppressed feelings & acute bitterness.

h.      Other stressors : Changes in the type or level of background noise;changes in the bedroom, such as a different  furnishings, lighting, temperature, or occupants; consumption of or withdrawl from caffeine, nicotine, alcohol or foods or beverages that contain these substances; stressful life events, such as loss of a loved one, divorce, loss of employment, arguments, particularly happy or sad events, work demands, or school demands; acute or chronic injuries or illness, particularly those causing pain or discomfort; medications or illicit drugs that have stimulant properties such as theophylline, beta blockers, steroids, thyroxine, bronchodilators or amphetamines withdrawl from central nervous system depressant drugs and nursing home or hospital administration.

i.         Stress-induced insomnia is related to increased activation of arousal systems rather than decreased drive for sleep.

 

Source: e. MediNews.

Thanks,

Health / Dec-2012

Sleep Tips For School-Aged Children

Teach school-aged children about healthy sleep habits.

Continue to emphasize ned for regular and consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.

Make Child’s bedroom conducive to sleep- dark, cool and quiet.

Keep TV and computers out of the bedroom.

Avoid caffeine.

Thanks,

Health / Dec-2012

SCC Hospitals

Bannerghatta Road, Near Hulimavu Gate, Bangalore Karnataka

Shree Sapthagiri Hospital

BM Road, Mission Compound, Bangalore Karnataka-572130

Flaccid Muscle

Flaccid muscles, also known as hypotonicity is a condition characterized by a decrease or loss of normal muscle tone due to the deterioration of the lower motor nerve cells.

Flaccid muscles are the descriptive of muscle loss due to inactivity, improper nutrition and certain health problems such as high potassium and brain damage. Flaccid muscles make everyday tasks difficult to accomplish and can severely affect your emotional state. Physical therapists and licensed physicians are a valuable resource in managing flaccid muscle problems, but prevention is always best.

Step 1

Wear protective gear during sports participation to decrease your risk of brain or spinal trauma. Helmets and shoulder pads help decrease the amount of force you experience when playing full contact sports. MayoClinic.com also suggests avoiding using your head or shoulders to remove obstacles or score points such as with football and baseball.

Step 2

Lift weights to help increase muscle strength and mass. Weight lifting requires your muscles to contract resulting in increased contractile filaments, according to BBC. As a result of this contractile filament increase, your muscles become stronger and larger helping them become less susceptible to the side effects of muscular injuries.

Step 3

Eat a well-balanced diet including lean proteins. Your muscle cells require protein to increase muscle mass and resistance. Poultry, fish and legumes are excellent sources of lean proteins that can be incorporated into any diet.

Step 4

Decrease your risk of falling by installing safety mats in your bath and at each door leading into your home. Most injuries that could result in flaccid muscles occur in the home. By keeping your home clutter-free and floors dry, you can decrease the risk of household accidents.

Step 5

Ask your doctor to perform a full blood work-up, checking your potassium levels are too high. You may be put on medications and asked to follow a low potassium or low cholesterol diet omitting certain foods such as bananas.

Thanks,

Health / Dec-2012

Flaccid Skin

Flaccid skin can be caused by aging or disease, and in either cases can look unsightly. Intrusive treatments and surgeries are the only permanent ways to fix flaccid skin. Vitamins  can be used  to improve the texture and tone of your skin, making looseness less noticeable.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A in the form of tretinon, or Retina –A, has been used extensively as a topical treatment cream to tighten and firm sagging, loose skin. Although it is not medically proven that ingesting vitamin A will produce the same effect, Vitamin A is a necessary component in maintaining healthy skin. If you wish to avoid ingesting large amounts of vitamins in pill form, you can look to eggs, cheese, milk and fish oil to attain a proper level of Vitamin A. Vitamin A contains Beta carotene, which is optimal in the fight against flaccid skin. The best source of vitamin A, also called Retinol, is found in darker vegetables, such as kale, spinach and collard greens, as well as carrots—which carry one of the highest concentrations of this vitamin.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B  boosts the metabolism. An increase in the metabolism can greatly benefit flaccid skin, by reducing fat content and strengthening cardiovascular health for improved blood circulation. Vitamin B is also a natural regulator of oils produced by the skin, and can act as a healing agent for damaged and flaccid skin. Vitamin B works to keep the skin hydrated as well. Foods that a high level of vitamin B include: chicken , whole  grain bread, beef and seafood. Suggests eating hard-boiled eggs, low-fat yogurts, drinking a glass of milk or consuming raisin bran cereals to attain the proper amounts of vitamin B.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E can be supplemented to treat a variety of conditions in the body and is essential for your overall health. A  antioxidant, this vitamin promotes blood cell creation, which ensures enough oxygen gets to your brain and other areas of your body. By eating vitaminE- rich foods like nuts, you can prevent wrinkles and promote a smoother skin texture, making lose areas of skin less noticeable.

Thanks,

Health / Dec-20212

Flaccid Skin

Flaccid skin can be caused by aging or disease, and in either cases can look unsightly. Intrusive treatments and surgeries are the only permanent ways to fix flaccid skin. Vitamins  can be used  to improve the texture and tone of your skin, making looseness less noticeable.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A in the form of tretinon, or Retina –A, has been used extensively as a topical treatment cream to tighten and firm sagging, loose skin. Although it is not medically proven that ingesting vitamin A will produce the same effect, Vitamin A is a necessary component in maintaining healthy skin. If you wish to avoid ingesting large amounts of vitamins in pill form, you can look to eggs, cheese, milk and fish oil to attain a proper level of Vitamin A. Vitamin A contains Beta carotene, which is optimal in the fight against flaccid skin. The best source of vitamin A, also called Retinol, is found in darker vegetables, such as kale, spinach and collard greens, as well as carrots—which carry one of the highest concentrations of this vitamin.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B  boosts the metabolism. An increase in the metabolism can greatly benefit flaccid skin, by reducing fat content and strengthening cardiovascular health for improved blood circulation. Vitamin B is also a natural regulator of oils produced by the skin, and can act as a healing agent for damaged and flaccid skin. Vitamin B works to keep the skin hydrated as well. Foods that a high level of vitamin B include: chicken , whole  grain bread, beef and seafood. Suggests eating hard-boiled eggs, low-fat yogurts, drinking a glass of milk or consuming raisin bran cereals to attain the proper amounts of vitamin B.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E can be supplemented to treat a variety of conditions in the body and is essential for your overall health. A  antioxidant, this vitamin promotes blood cell creation, which ensures enough oxygen gets to your brain and other areas of your body. By eating vitaminE- rich foods like nuts, you can prevent wrinkles and promote a smoother skin texture, making lose areas of skin less noticeable.

Thanks,

Health / Dec-20212

Bharathi Raja Speciality Hospital Research Centre

#20, G.N. Chetty Road, Chennai Tamilnadu-600017

LifeCare Hospital

2nd Floor, Shree Mumabdevi, Irla, Mumbai Maharastra

Rane Hospital

37, Pestom Sagar, Mumbai Maharastra-400089

Acharya Shri Nanesh Hospital

Belapur Navi Mumbai Maharastra

Global Hospital & Research Institute

577/2, Near Dattawadi Police Chowky, Pune Maharastra-411030

Upasani Hospital

Rashman Apartments, S L Road,, Mumbai Maharastra

Heart Prescription For The Cold Onslaught

Much like the prescription Santa hats on Christmas eve and hateful hangovers the next morning, all health columns leading up to the new year are inevitably on innovative premutation-combinations of how  to live a sober, fitter and better life. At the risk of being contrarian, I won’t go into all that.

Instead, I’ll just help those over 40 years survive Monday morning and the very many cold winter mornings that follow it.

Heart attacks and strokes are five to six times more likely to occur in the morning, with wintry Mondays being the days when your heart and brain are most at risk. The most common cause is the sudden surge in blood pressure as you jump out of bed to meet the day and its many deadlines. This sudden spike in pressure – called the “a.m. surge” - taxes the heart, at times causing it to pack up. Apart from blood pressure, work-related stress also raises stress hormones cortisol, which makes the arteries constrict and restrict blood flow.

Newer studies now reveal a biological cause. A study in the journal Nature has identified a link between circadian rhythms – your hormone- governed sleep – wake cycle- and early morning heart attacks. It reports that daylight-related shifts in the body’s circadian clock makes the level of a protein called KLF15 fluctuate, which causes rapid, irregular heartbeats called arrhythmia that impair the heart’s ability to pump blood, causing sudden death.

Morning heart attacks and the resulting complications are also more serious. Heart attacks occurring between 6: a.m. and noon were associated with the most damage, according to a study reported by the journal Heart, earlier this year. Attacks that occurred in the morning hours resulted in 20% more dead heart tissues.

But while managing your stress would certainly be helpful, as would lowering all your risk factors for heart disease – quitting smoking, losing weight, getting active and if needed taking prescription medicines to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol, to name a few – you also need to watch out for the cold.

For much like Mondays and mornings, winter is high time for heart attacks and stroke. In cold weather, the heart needs more oxygen because it has to work harder to maintain body temperature. Cold  weather makes arteries tighten, restricting blood flow and reducing oxygen supply  to the heart. It also makes blood thick and sticky, making the platelets more likely to stick to the inside walls of the blood-vessels, blocking blood flow.

Viral attacks in winter, too, add to heart woes. Flu causes inflammation, make fatty deposits inside the arteries unstable and these may dislodge to block arteries.

Outdoor activities such as early morning walks and runs further add to the morning spike in blood pressure, increasing heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels. So start your day slow and give your heart and blood vessels sometime to adapt. Go for sunshine walks and runs and even then, make sure you don’t overdo it. While walking or exercising, push yourself just enough – till you’re slightly out of breathe but are not so breathless that you cannot complete a sentence.

And when you take a break, don’t smoke or have tea, coffee or alcohol to warm up because nicotine, caffeine and alcohol further burden the heart. While nicotine makes the blood viscous and more prone to clotting , caffeine  acts as a diuretic, while alcohol gives an initial feeling of warmth by making the blood vessels in the ski to expand  but ultimately make the body lose heart rapidly, leaving you colder.

And stay alert to the signs . Few people have the classic symptoms of chest pain. For most, especially women, the symptoms could just be a general feeling of uneasiness, a pulled back or neck muscle or a pain in the arm, stroke too, could just feel like a mild dizzy spell. So, listen to your body and get all signs of uneasiness whetted for early signs of a potentially fatal disease.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness,

30/12/2012

Walking Cuts Chance Of Early Death In Older People

A short walk just four times a week can reduce the risk of early  death in older people  by a straggering   40 %. According to a recent study, each walk only needs to be a 15-minute stroll in the open air to give older people a better chance of extending their life by a few years .

Walking is an easier form of exercise for older people to take up but it also has the effect of holding back heart disease, stroke and other likely causes of death. The fresh air and exercise makes the immune system robust, strengthens bones and lowers obesity. It also improves flexibility and balance , which in turn reduces risk of injuries from falls.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness

20/01/2013

Sanjay Dental Clinic

Rewari Rewari Haryana

Berries Cut Heart Attack Rise In Women

Women who ate at least three servings of blueberries and strawberries per week had fewer heart attacks. The diet reduces the risk by as much as one-third . Blueberries and strawberries contain high levels of heart-protecting compounds called dietary flavonoids, which are also found in grapes , blackberries, eggplant among others. A specific sub-class of flavonioids , called anthocyanins, dilate arteries and counter the build-up of plaque that impede blood.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness,

20/01/2013

Meditation Lowers Chronic Inflammation

People suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and asthma – in which physiological stress plays a major role – benefit from meditation. Mindfulness –based stress reduction, a form of meditation originally designed for patients with chronic pain, consists of continuously focusing attention on the breath, bodily sensations and mental content, while seated, walking or practicing yoga. Such behavioural interventions reduce emotional reactivity and also benefit people with chronic inflammatory conditions. Other pulses are that meditation is no-cost, complements standards treatment and can be practiced easily.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Well Being,

20/01/2013

Hemalatha Hospitals and Research Centre

Nalco Square, Khurda Orissa-751023

Coffee Adds To Incontinence

Men who have about two cups of coffee a day, or the equivalent amount of caffeine, are more likely to have urinary incontinence or a ‘leaky bladder’ than men who drink less or none at all, report US researchers in The Journal Of Urology.

While several studies have already established a link between caffeine intake and leaky bladder in women, the evidence for such a link in men is limited. For their study, the researchers used national survey results about food and drink intake of over 5,000 American men aged 20 and over.

The study concluded that people having problems with urinary incontinence should cut back on their caffeine intake.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times, Wellness

20/01/2013

No Workout Worries

Dr. Sheela Nambiar tells you how to start and stick with your workout schedule.

This is for those of you who are not yet exercising. Who think perhaps that you don’t need to, or can’t . This is also for those who tend to take long breaks in your fitness  routine ever so often on some vague pretext or the other , those who tend to keep ‘falling off the wagon’ so to speak.

I’ve heard all the excuses: I don’t have time; I don’t need to, (I am slim, I don’t have any medical disorders and so on); I have tried in the past but have always failed, so why try again?; I hate exercise, I can’t find anything I like to do.

Well, here is the news flash; you have to exercise whatever your shape, size, job, family situation….

Time? I haven’t heard of anyone who has more than 24 hours in a day, so you haven’t been singled out with a shortage of time. Strangely, I find the busiest people are the ones who “find” the time to workout. No, actually they do not “find” the time; they “ make “ the time. It is all about the priorities. You have to decide what is more important to you. Watching that TV serial or chatting for hours on the phone or getting  a quick 30 minute workout. Once you make a priority list, then the hour you spend working out becomes non-negotiable . You suddenly, magically, ”find “ the time.

If you can’t find anything you like, just do it anyway. Exercise is not meant to entertain you. Grow up. Sometimes we need to do what we need to do. Surprisingly , after doing it often enough, your body begins to recognize it as something you do and is able to cope with the drudgery. It is all about perspective .  You start looking at it as something that makes you look, feel and BE better. Not as something you hate or can’t do.

Sometimes I think one of the reasons people do not start at all is because the goals they set for themselves are so daunting that they don’t know where to begin. They expect results overnight; they think about the terribly difficult task ahead; they imagine the struggle they face and just back off in frustration even before they start.

They key is to set simple, realistic goals. More important , to set more than one single goal. Make sure the goals are not all focused on the weight on the scale because, that is NOT the only reason you need to exercise.

I will workout five days a week.

I will aim to burn 100 calories more per workout next week.

I will fill in my food journal every day and pay attention to what I eat every day.

I will be more active during the day and not plant myself in front of the TV for more than 15 minutes at a time.

I will do sit-ups at every commercial break on TV.

These are all goals that you can follow and feel pleased about achieving.

It’s not hard . Start with a 15-minute  walk every day. Cover a certain distance. Increase the time to 20-30 minutes. Increase the distance you cover in that time. Add weight training to your routine at least twice a week; 20 minutes a session. Increase the intensity.

Get more active during the day. Don’t remain seated all day. Move as much as possible.

Buy a pedometer. It clocks the number of steps you take a day. Put it on and try  to cover at leas 10,000 steps a day.

Find a mentor, preferably someone responsible. This could be an integral part of keeping you motivated. This is something like an AA sponsor/ guide who is  responsible for your progress. You become accountable  to that person. You feel bad if you don’t show up for your workout. You feel guilty for letting them down. This is great start with. It keeps you motivated, even obligated initially. After a while (hopefully) you start feeling responsible for yourself and are able to stand on your own two feet.

Gradually it becomes a habit. An integral part of your day that you are loathe to miss. You start seeing results (however slow) in your body that you appreciate and this motivates you to keep going. You try new things . Add Zumba to your cardio. Pilates for your Core. Oh yes, it CAN be fun too!

Thanks,

The Hindu – Well Being,

06/01/2013

MetaMorphosis Aesthetic Clinic

R-9, GK-1 New Delhi Delhi-110048

Strong Muscles for strong Bones

My doctors says if I strengthen my muscles, I’ll strengthen my bones, too. Is that true? Madeline K.

It’s true that stronger muscles mean stronger bones. Not long ago, there was a study of women who went through early menopause (that increases the risk for osteoporosis) and then adopted a workout routine combining a range of physical activities from lifting weights to jumping rope. After two years of cross-training , the women’s muscle strength and bone mass increased.

Another recent study confirms that increasing muscle mass makes the spongy insides and the hard outsides of bones stronger. For women it is particularly effective in developing stronger, load-bearing bones, such as the hip, lumbar spine and thigh bone.

To protect yourself, adopt a workout routine you can stick to. Mix it up as you work it out to avoid boredom.

First, a good warm-up is crucial before muscle –building or aerobics, especially if you are working out in the morning, when you’re likely a bit stiffer. The try these:

Explore new equipment at the gym, and try innovative new combo classes: water workouts with swimming and strength training; yoga-lates (a blend of yoga and pilates); or piloxing , which puts pilates and boxing together.

Take up a new activity, such as racquetball or ballroom dancing. Learn to jump rope again.

Ad intervals – short bursts of increased intensity – to every workout that you can.

Beyond exercise, help your bones stay strong by making sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D-3.

Thanks,

King Features Syndicate

The Hindu- Well Being,

20/01/2013

Just Soap Will Do

Our pediatrician told me that using antimicrobial soaps and over – sanitizing our house could give my 4 year-old son asthma later in life. Is he kidding?  Grace P.

Bacteria- even disease-causing bugs- are important for good health. The indiscriminate annihilation of those little creatures may deny a young one’s developing immune system the opportunity to meet its adversaries and build its germ-fighting muscles properly.

That’s the so-called hygiene hypothesis in a nutshell: lack of exposure to some germs weakens the immune system, allowing certain parts to overdevelop unchecked. The result is autoimmune diseases in which immune system cells designed to battle invading bacteria decide, like bored delinquents, that they’ve got to some action somewhere, and kill off the body’s own healthy cells. That’s what happens in diseases like type1diabetes (insulin producing beta cells are killed) and Hashimoto’s (thyroid hormone producing cells die); and allergic asthma.

As the use of home-cleaning products and soaps containing an anti microbial chemical called triclosan has gone up in the past 40 years, reported cases of asthma have almost tripled. Now researchers at Johns Hopkins have found a significant association between children’s allergies and exposure to antimicrobial agents in tooth pastes, soaps and cosmetics. One other downside of our bug-killing spree and antibiotic overuse is the altered balance of our intestinal bacteria that evolved over centuries to help protect our bodies.

What’s the solution?  Soap (without anti-bacterials) and water is just as effective at killing bacteria as fancied sterilisers. Unlike antimicrobials that may trigger antibiotic resistance, soap does its job and the battle is over, until the next time you need to wash your hands.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

20/01/2013

Sanchet Hospital

Block No F, Hospital No 436, Bhera Enclusive, Behind Canara Bank, Delhi Delhi-110087

Jeevan Nursing Home

150, Gate No II, Jeevan Nagar, New Delhi Delhi

No More Aching Jaws

Grinding teeth and often-associated jaw problems (temporomandibular disorder TMD or TMJ) can make your face and jaw ache and even break teeth. But though the causes of bruxism (doc talk for teeth grinding)  and TMD are not known, a major new study may help. Turns out that people with TMD are not known, a major study may help. Turns out that people with TMD have heightened pain sensitivity, and may have genetic predispositions that increase their stress response and inflammatory reactions. That may be why TMD is associated with fibromyalgia, headaches and chronic back pain.

The good news is that the best remedies usually are the simplest. (Try to avoid surgery, implants and bite or jaw realignments as they often cause more problems than they solve.)

Use a dental night guard to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Use hot and cold compresses to ease pain.

NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, reduce inflammation.

Try progressive relaxation:

Start at your feet and move up your body, tensing each muscle group for seven to 10 seconds ; then releasing it quickly, resting for 15 seconds; then progress to the next muscle group and repeat.

Breathe evenly and deeply. If it hurts to tense any area, skip it.

Thanks,

The Hindu – Well Being,

20/01/2013

The Fats In Your Blood

Watch Your Weight : Obesity is a major cause of of dyslipidemia.

How does dyslipidemia affect your health?

Dr. A.G. Ravikishore has the answers.

Almost everyone knows that the build-up of cholesterol in the arteries is harmful for the heart. But what many don’t know is that this build –up can occur anywhere in the body and might lead to lower limb gangrene and kidney damage in addition to heart attack and stroke, collectively referred to as CVD (Cardiovascular disease) by doctors. CVD has a number of risk factors, most important of which are diabetes, high blood pressure (BP), smoking and abnormal lipid levels or ‘dyslipiedmia ‘.

Lipids are types of fats in the body. The two main forms are cholesterol and triglycirides.  Both travel in the blood in the form of lipoproteins, which are of three types: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) which carries 60-70 per cent of the total blood cholesterol; high-density lipoprotein (HDL) which carries 20-30 per cent of the total blood cholesterol and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), which is rich in triglyceride and carries 10-15 per cent of the blood cholesterol. Any imbalance or abnormality in their levels is known as dyslipidemia.

Although dyslipidemia can occur because of genetic causes, it is more often due to lifestyle factors such as diabetes, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. Certain medicines (steroids and some hormones) and disease conditions (thyroid problems) can also cause dyslipidemia.

LDL, better known as the ‘bad cholesterol’ , is the most important lipid element responsible for cholesterol build up. At any given LDL level, every 1 mg/ dl increase leads to a one per cent increase in heart attack risk. Although, there is no ‘normal’ range of LDL, the risk of heart attacks increases particularly rapidly when the LDL levels increases above 100 mg/ dl. However, more recent data suggests that among those with a heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes (such as those already having heart disease), it is good to have even lower levels i.e. less than 70 mg/dl of LDL.

It is better to start lowering LDL levels at a younger age. For example, a 10 mg/dl reduction in LDL level at the age of 40 is likely to reduce the life-time risk of heart attacks by 50 per cent whereas the same reduction achieved at 70 years will lead to only 20 per cent reduction. LDL levels as low as less than 40 mg/dl  have been shown to safe, and even beneficial to some patients with a history of heart attacks.

HDL , better known as ‘good cholesterol’ , removes cholesterol from blood vessels and return it to liver where it is broken down. Thus, HDL appears to protect against the development of atherosclerosis. A low level of HDL has been consistently shown to be associated with an increased risk of CVD and seems to be stronger reason for heart attacks than increased LDL. Ideally, the HDL levels should be maintained above 40 mg/ dl in men and above 50 mg/dl in women.

Increased triglyceride levels point only towards coming cardiovascular risk, rather than being the cause of CVD itself. However, newer evidence has clearly shown that raised triglyceride levels on their own also increase the risk of heart attacks. A triglyceride level of less than 150mg/ dl is considered ideal.

Dyslipidemia can be managed in simple ways, like being active, balancing your calorie intake and expenditure. Manage your weight, stop smoking and take precautions if you are a diabetic. As always, your doctor is the best judge to monitor your condition.

Thanks,

The Hindu-Well Being,

20/01/2013

Get Rid Of That Dark Patch

Dr. Uma Singh on how to manage and treat hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation is the formation of dark patches on the skin. It is a common and often distressing condition that can occur irrespective of skin type and complexion.

There are multiple causes for this problem. Dark spots on the face , post-acne marks, skin damage from sunlight and pigmentation are commonly referred to as Chhaiyas.

Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in the production and deposition of melanin, the colour pigment produced by special cells in the skin (melanocytes). Treatment depends on the duration of the problem. New patches are often easier and faster to get rid of than ones that have been on the skin for years.

Sun Damage: Dark skin patches often occur due to exposure to the sun. These are sometimes called age spots, lentigenes or liver spots and are often seen on the face, hands and shoulders. Most people do not realize that even on cloudy days, the UV index can high and sunburn can occur easily.

Scars : Post-acne scars often occur in the form of pigmented patches. Acne is a chronic disorder characterized by inflammatory papules, pustules, pimples, open and closed comedones, cysts and nodules affecting both adolescents and adults. Inflammatory acne lesions can disrupt the epidermal basal layer causing the melanocytes ti increase melanin production.

Freckles : Ephelides  or freckles are dark spots that are inherited and a stubborn condition that is difficult to treat.

Melasma or Chloasma : Usually called ‘the mask of pregnancy’, this is defined by brown patches on the skin as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy. Usually these dark spots disappear on their own after delivery. Sometimes birth control pills can also cause pigmentation.

Other than sun exposure, other causative factors include autoimmune and thyroid disorders and photosensitizing drugs Treatment.

First, the doctor has to check whether pigmentation is epidermal or dermal. Only epidermal pigmentation responds to treatment. First-line therapy includes prescription creams to lighten the skin. These contain a combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin and a class V to VII topical corticosteroid but this usually takes a long time. Chemical peeling with glycolic acid or trichloroacetic  acid is an option for patients with severe melasma  unresponsive to topical bleaching agents.

There are some simple and effective home remedies that one can try.

Lemon juice : Lemon acts as a natural bleaching agent. Mix equal quantities of lemon juice and water and apply it on the spots. Leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse.

Aloe Vera     : Aloe vera is a powerful astringent and can be directly applied to acne spots.

Potato : Potato is a common skin lightening and bleaching agent. Apply thin slices of potato to the skin and leave on for 20-30 minutes so that the juices is absorbed by the skin.

Turmeric and Milk : Apply the mixture of turmeric and milk on the affected area and leave it for 10 minutes before washing. Both milk and turmeric have bleaching properties and regular  use  makes the skin flawless.

Apart from these remedies, have a regular skin care routine. Keep the skin hydrated, moisture and well nourished.  Apply sunscreen before going out in the sun, whether you are 16 to 60, to prevent the sun ray’s from damaging and aging your skin.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

13/01/2013

Are Your Bones older Than You?

Brittle bones aren’t just a problem of old age. Damage can start decades earlier, Writes Dr. Rajeev K. Sharma.

Women tend to suffer from brittle bones after the age of 40. But fragile bones can become a problem much earlier.

A sedentary lifestyle, bad habits like smoking and drinking combined with unhealthy low-calcium diets are all causes for soaring osteoporosis. Usually calcium stores in the body decrease in the teens, 20s and 30s,  so it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle during these years.

Osteoporosis affects the bone structure and makes it weak. When we’re young, the body absorbs calcium more efficiently. But as the body ages, calcium reserves are depleted and this makes the bone weaker. High levels of stress also make the body produce the hormone cortisol, which causes bone loss.

Deficiency of calcium and vitamin D can also lead to weaker bones. Approriate intake of calcium through diet or supplements is essential.

Vitamin D deficiency is a more serious problem. This is also known as the ‘disease of neglect.’ Vitamin D, also called sunlight Vitamin, is a fat soluble vitamin that helps absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream.

Human beings require different amounts of calcium and Vitamin D during different phases in life. An average adult requires 1000 IU/day; a pregnant woman 2000 IU/day and a lactating mother 4000 IU/day. Similarly when it comes to calcium, adults in the age group of 19-50 require 1000 mg/day while those above 51 years require 1200 mg/day.

The main sources of Vitamin D are sunlight and supplements. Ninety per cent of Vitamin D production in the body is through sunlight. In food, vitamin D is found in milk, mushroom, wild salmon, fish and vitamin D supplements. Calcium sources in food include yoghurt, cheese, orange juice, salmon, tofu amd leafy green vegetables such as kale, broccoli and spinach. Dried fruits such as figs ansd currants and fortified breakfast cereals are also good sources.

How can one prevent bones from getting weak?

The answer is to lead a healthy life: exercise daily, avoid smoking and alcohol, eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D and take supplements if necessary.

Since obesity can cause vitamin D deficiency, opt for low-fat or skimmed milk and yoghurt and bony fish like salmon and sardines.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

13/01/2013

Pros Of Protein

More than 700,000 times a month someone Googles the phrases “high protein” or ‘high protein diet.” It’s become accepted that slashing carbs and eating a lot of protein (from meat with fat included!) is a smart way to lose weight and get healthy.

Protein is essential for your body to build hormones, enzymes, antibodies and every cell.

Protein is a great “I’m full and I’m not getting hungry anytime soon” nutrient. New research shows that when you eat protein  rich foods, you set off a chemical  reaction that doubles back through the gut and nervous system to tell the brain you’re food satisfied long after you eat.

After age 40 your body has to work harder to maintain muscle mass, so it’s important to make sure you get enough muscle building protein in a steady supply throughout the day. Our recommendation:

Aim for a minimum of 46-56 grams of protein per day.

And most important, protein doesn’t mean saturated fat! Stay clear of all red meats. Opt for fish and lean poultry if you aren’t vegetarian. But everyone should rely on lean, protein-packing beans, hummus, low-fat dairy, 100 per cent whole grains, soy foods and egg whites.

Thanks,

King Features Syndicate,

The Hindu- Well Being,

01/13/2013

Cool The Hot Flush

“ The Hot Flashes,” an upcoming movie starring Daryl Hannah (51), Brooke shields (47) and Wanda sykes (48) as members of a middle-age  basketball team may seem pretty cool.

But when it coms to the estrogen rollercoaster that hits most women in their 40s, and ends with menopause around age 51, hot flashes are sweaty, sleep-disturbing interruptions to every day life and romance.

Now a new study shows a drug free way to chill out! The study recommends an ultralow saturated – and trans fat diet loaded with veggies, fruits and whole grains – and if you’re over weight, lose at least 10 per cent of your weight. So here is todays’s cool –the –hot –flush news flash:

1.       Raspberry ketone, the chemical that makes this fruit smell so good, may help. Use a supplement to get 100 mg a day.

2.       Jump-start weight loss with the 90/10 rule. For seven days, make 90 per cent of what you eat veggies, fruits, seeds and nuts, beans and whole grains. The other 10 per cent? Healthy oils, skinless poultry  and fish, and no-fat dairy.

3.       Boost Your metabolism by eating every three hours- three meals plus two healthy snacks a day. Eat within an hour of walking up and not after 8:00 p.m.

Thanks,

King Features Syndicate,

The Hindu – Well Being,

13/01/2013

Breathes Of fresh Air

Although laughter often is great Medicine, you don’t want to come up short of breath too often. Breathing fully and deeply helps lower your heart rate and blood pressure, promotes endurance and better calorie burn, reduces stress, eases pain and strengthens the immune system.

Whew! Here are three great ways to maximize your supply of oxygen and get all the benefits.

Morning breathe –and –stretch. Stand tall, arms straight over your head. Inhale deeply and, as you bend forward, exhale (slowly); bring your finger tips toward your toes. (you don’t have to touch  them!) then, inhaling slowly stretch back up to your original position. Repeat three times.

Midafternoon  re-energizing breath. Sitting, rapidly inhale through your nose and exhale through puckered lips- about three times a second – until you are out of stream,. Your diaphragm should go up and down.

Sweet-dreams breathing, stretch out and put your right hand over your belly button. Inhale and let the air fill your belly and push it out so it’s big and full. Then slowly and evenly exhale and let your belly button sink way down to your spine. Repeat 10 times.

Thanks,

King Features syndicate,

The Hindu-Well Being,

 13/01/2013

Apollo Institute Of Robotic Surgery

Aim Right at Cancer - World Cancer Day 4th February-2013

Apollo Hospitals is amongst the first in India to introduce the robotic surgery program for  Cancer, which is available in Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and shortly to be introduced in Bangalore.  With Comprehensive training and extensive experience, the Apollo Robotic surgery team is redefining standards of cancer care.

Thanks,

Apollo Hospitals,
Institute of Robotic surgery

The Hindu- 20/01/2013

Apollo Institute Of Robotic Surgery

Aim Right at Cancer - World Cancer Day 4th February-2013

Apollo Hospitals is amongst the first in India to introduce the robotic surgery program for  Cancer, which is available in Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and shortly to be introduced in Bangalore.  With Comprehensive training and extensive experience, the Apollo Robotic surgery team is redefining standards of cancer care.

Thanks,

Apollo Hospitals,

Institute of Robotic surgery

The Hindu- 20/01/2012

Be Well MN Hospitals

Specialty Orthopedic Hospital, No.15, Bank Street, Chennai Tamilnadu-600010

Let’s Talk About STI

Napoleon Bonaparte and Franz Schubert died from arsenic and mercury poisoning, because in the 19^th century these toxins were used to treat syphilis.

In the 20^th century, Al Capone succumbed  to the same sexually transmitted infection.

STIs caused by viruses include hepatitis B, herpes, HIV and the human papilloma virus. Bacterial STIs are Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. A parasite causes trichomoniasis.

Fortunately, antibiotics can treat bacterial and parasitic infections (although some strains are becoming antibiotic resistant).

Viral STI are difficult to cure; you usually just manage symptoms.

Left unchecked, STIs can cause infertility, cancer, immune system damage or organ failure.

The smart move is to avoid getting one, But, if you do, treat it immediately.

Prevention : Abstinence works; Latex condoms help block out HIV and other infections but don’t protect against herpes or HPV.

The HPV vaccine prevents that infection. Yearly pelvic exams (for women) can identify infections.

Thanks,

King Features Syndicate,

The Hindu- Well Being,

06/01/2013

Daydream Believer

So, you want to boost your creativity, calm your blood pressure, melt stress and raise the happiness quotient of your closest relationships?

Don’t do anything – just haul out the hammock, pour a tall glass of iced tea (unsweetened, of course) and send your gray cells off on a mini- vacation.

Daydreaming has a slew of surprising benefits:

Better Problem-Solving :  When Canadian researchers watched brain scans of people as theyu day dreamed, they discovered that their brain’s  “executive networks” lit up like Christmas trees when they weren’t thinking about anything in particular. These networks  are a combo of high-powered brain areas that work together to find answers to trickly questions.

Closer Relationships : Daydreaming about the good things you’ve done or would like to do together produces more of the “glue” that bonds happy marriages and makes friendships and parent child relationships tight.

More Compassion : Daydreaming increases compassion with others.

Less Stress : Related studies have shown to bust stress, reduce your blood pressure, ease your pain and bolster your immune system.

King Features syndicate,

The Hindu – well Being,

06/01/2013

Chandulal Chandrakar Memorial Hospital Pvt. Ltd.

Nehru Nagar Square, G.E. Road, Durg Chattisgarh

Dr. Hedgewar Hospital

Gharkheda, Aurangabad Maharastra

Paras HMRI Hospital

Baily Road, Raja Bajar, Patna Bihar-800014

Beat Breast Cancer

When Jennifer Aniston, Patricia Clarkson and Demi Moore team up to direct and act in “Five,” an anthology of short films about breast cancer, you know it’s a subject you can’t walk away from . But you can run from it.

Running, cycling, walking, swimming – any regular workout, including lifting weights and doing stretch bands- slashes your risk by up to 30 per cent. Although vigorous exercise is most effective , you can gain some benefits from moderate  activity.

How does this work? Physical activity lowers specific hormone levels, helps decrease inflammation and reduces body fat. This triggers a chain reaction: less fat, less estrogen and less inflammation equals  less cancer risk.

Go walking for five days ; aim for 10,000 steps a day. Include 20 minutes of rapid walking or other cardio exercise three times a week to raise  your pulse  to 80 per cent of your age-adjusted maximum heart rate . Also , do two days strength training for 20 to 30 minutes. The Combo also helps you dodge cancer and heart disease and keep your mind sharp and emotions calm.

King  Features Syndicate,

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being

06/01/2013

More Coffee Breaks

Here’s a rundown of what you’ll get from your daily caffeine shot.(Make it black and filtered! Avoid milk, cream and sugar, research confirms  they block the benefits.)

Drinking three or more cups a day slashes the risk of basal  cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, by 40 per cent. Other cancers caffeine protects against: breast, the most lethal form of prostate, liver and endometrial . Caffeine –laced water (but not energy drinks), tea and chocolate protect , too.

Four cups a day reduces your risk for type 2 diabetes and protects you from developing  Alz-heimer’s disease.

Caffeine also has been shown to boost muscle power and endurance.

You can cut your risk of heart failure by 11 per cent with four cups a day.

Good news for decaf drinkers: A large study from 1995 to 2008 found that three cups a day of either decaf or regular lowered the risk  of dying  from heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke , injuries and accidents , diabetes and infections.

Thanks,

The Hindu-Well Being,

06/01/2013

RASHTRA SANT TUKDOJI REGIONAL CANCER HOSPITAL & RESEARCH CENTRE

(RCC under Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India) Tukdoji Chowk, Manewada Road, Nagpur Maharastra-440027

At Swath Health Clinic

184, Zeta-1, Gautam Budh Nagar Uttar Pradesh-201308

Arpana Hospital

Madhuban Karnal Haryana

Sodhi Nursing Home

House No 455, Behra Enclave, Near Outer Ring Road, Delhi Delhi-110087

Aastha Kidney & General Hospital

2/1-D, Sukhadia Nagar, Near Tantia Hospital, Sri Ganga Nagar Rajasthan-335001

Dhir Hospital

Meham Chowk, Circular Road Bhiwani Haryana-127021

Slightly Plump Better Than Skinny, Helps Live Longer

A bit of extra weight could actually help you live longer, according to new research which found that men and women who are slightly plump have longer lives than those who are slimmer.

In the research, those judged to be slightly overweight were 6% less likely to have died by the end of the study period than those of normal weight. However, those who were any bigger were around a third more likely to die during the months or years they were being studied than those of normal weight.

The analysis suggests that a bit of extra weight is actually good for health. It could be because those who start out slightly heavier will have more fat reserves to call on should they lose weight due to ill health as they get older.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness,

06/01/2013

Yoga Lowers Chronic Neck Pain And Improves Quality Of Life

Yoga appears to be an effective treatment for neck pain and provides added benefits of improved psychological well being and quality of life, according to a recent German study.

A type of yoga, called Iyengar yoga, has been shown effective in other pain syndromes, including low back pain. This activity uses supportive props and the sequences of postures can be trailored to address an individual’s medical problem. It might enhance both the toning of muscles tension. Relaxation responses, therefore, could reduce stress related muscle tension and modify neurobiological pain perception.

The mainstay of conservative treatment for neck pain is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, and the evidence of its effectiveness is contradictory while side effects, such as nausea and dizziness, are well known.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness,

02/01/2012

Holiday Excesses Upset Food Clock

If the sinful excess of holiday eating sends your system into butter slathered, brandy-soaked overload, you are not alone: people who are jet-lagged, people who work grave yard shifts and plain-old late-night snackers know just how you feel.

All these activities upset the body’s food clock, a collection  of interacting genes and molecules known technically as the food enterable oscillator, which keeps the human body on a metabolic even keel.

It may also help explain why night owls are more likely to be obese than morning larks, and the food clock is there to help our bodies make the most of our nutritional intake.

Thanks,

Hindustan times- Wellness,

06/01/2013

Smoking Doesn’t Relieve Stress

Contrary to the popular perception, smoking does not relieve stress, while quitting does.  British researchers measured anxiety levels in almost 500 smokers-before and after they tried to give up and found the claims of benefits associated with nicotine are a myth.

Though one in five people said they smoked to help them deal with stress, the reverse is true: Smoking probably causes anxiety. The confusion seems to have arisen because nicotine withdrawal is edginess. While smoking takes the edge off stress related to lack of nicotine , it does nothing to ease the pressures of everyday life.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness,

06/01/2013

Aspharagus May Prevent A Hangover

Suffering with the dreaded hangover, and looking for a cure to get over it? Amino acids and minerals found in asparagus extract could help alleviate alcohol hangover and protect liver cells against toxins, shows new research.

Asparagus is used in herbal medicine for its anti-cancer effects. Chronic alcohol use causes oxidative stress on the liver as well as unpleasant symptoms such as headache and jellied limbs associated with a hangover. The study treatment with extracts of asparagus leaves and shoots lowered these cellular toxicities.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times-Wellness,

02/01/2012

Want Your Baby To Learn? Sitting Up Helps

From the Mozart effect to educational videos, many parents want to aid their infants in learning ; and a recent research has shown something as simple as the body position of babies while they learn plays a critical role in their cognitive development.

For babies, sitting up, either by themselves or with assistance plays a significant role in how infants learn. The study’s results show that babies’ ability to sit up unsupported has a profound effect on their ability to learn about objects. The research also shows that when babies who cannot sit up alone are given posture support from infant seats that help them sit up, they learn as well as babies who can already sit alone.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness

02/01/2013

Getting Started With Healthy Weight Loss

                                

While there is no “one size fits all” solution to permanent bhealthy weight loss, the following guidelines are a great place to start.

Think  lifestyle change, not short-term diet.

Permanent weight loss is not something that a “quick – fix” diet can achieve. Instead , think about weight loss as a permanent lifestyle change- a commitment to your health for life. Various popular diets can help to jumpstart your weightloss, but permanent changes in your lifestyle and food choices are what will work in the long run.

Find a cheering section.

Social support means a lot. Seek out support – whether in the form of family, friends, or a support group – so that you can get the encouragement you need.

Slow  and steady wins the race.

Aim to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week to ensure healthy weight loss. Losing weight too fast can take a toll on your mind and body, making you feel sluggish, drained and sick. When you drop a lot of weight quickly, you’re actually losing mostly water and muscle, rather than fat.

Set goals to keep your motivated.

Short-term goals, like wnting to fit into a bikini for the summer, usually don’t work as well as goals like wanting to feel more confident or become healthier for your childre’s sakes. When frustration and temptation strike, concentrate on the many benefits you  will reap from being haelthier and leaner.

 Use tools  that help you track your progress.

Keep a food  journal and weigh yourself regularly, keeping track of each pound you lose and inch of your waist lost. By keeping track of your weight loss efforts, you’ll see the results in black and white, which will help you stay motivated.

Keep in mind it may take some experimenting to find the right diet for your individual body. It’s important that you feel satisfied so that you can stick with it on a long –term basis. If one diet plan dosen’t work, then try another one. There are many ways to lose weight. The key is to find what works for you.

Thanks,

Health- Dec-2012

Eating Tips

Try not to think of certain foods as “off limits”

When you ban certain foods or food groups, it is natural to want those foods more, and then feel like a failure if you give in to temptation. Instead of denying yourself  the unhealthy foods you love, simply eat them less often.

Fruits and vegetables to eat in moderation                

Fruits and vegetables of all colors, shapes and sizes are major players in a healthy diet, but you still need to watch out for the following diet busters.

Veggies that have been breaded of fried or doused in heavy sauces are no longer low calorie, so tread with caution. Opt for healthier cooking methods, such as steaming, and use low-fat dressings and spices for flavor.

Salads are guilt-free – unless you drench them in high –fat dressing and toppings. By all means, add some nuts or cheese, but don’t  overdo it. As for dressing, a little fat is healthy (try a vinaigrette made with olive oil), but again, moderation is key.

Dried fruit. Be careful when it comes to dried fruit, which is high in calories and aften in added sugar. You can eat a whole lot more fresh fruit for the same number of calories. If you do choose to snack on dried fruit, keep your serving size small.

Fruit Juice. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a glass of juice every now and again. But remember that the calories quickly add up, without doing much to make feel full. Also make sure that your drink of choice is made from 100% fruit juice and contains no Reducing calorie intake promotes weight loss-type of diet isn’t important.

A major study concluded that it doesn’t matter which diet program your choose, as long as it is one that reduces your calorie intake and is healthy for your heart (low in saturated fat and cholesterol). In other words , the best diet is the one you’ll stick to, not necessarily the one currently topping the best seller list.

Thanks,

Health-Dec-2012

Eating Tips

Try not to think of certain foods as “off limits”

When you ban certain foods or food groups, it is natural to want those foods more, and then feel like a failure if you give in to temptation. Instead of denying yourself  the unhealthy foods you love, simply eat them less often.

Fruits and vegetables to eat in moderation                

Fruits and vegetables of all colors, shapes and sizes are major players in a healthy diet, but you still need to watch out for the following diet busters.

Veggies that have been breaded of fried or doused in heavy sauces are no longer low calorie, so tread with caution. Opt for healthier cooking methods, such as steaming, and use low-fat dressings and spices for flavor.

Salads are guilt-free – unless you drench them in high –fat dressing and toppings. By all means, add some nuts or cheese, but don’t  overdo it. As for dressing, a little fat is healthy (try a vinaigrette made with olive oil), but again, moderation is key.

Dried fruit. Be careful when it comes to dried fruit, which is high in calories and aften in added sugar. You can eat a whole lot more fresh fruit for the same number of calories. If you do choose to snack on dried fruit, keep your serving size small.

Fruit Juice. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a glass of juice every now and again. But remember that the calories quickly add up, without doing much to make feel full. Also make sure that your drink of choice is made from 100% fruit juice and contains no Reducing calorie intake promotes weight loss-type of diet isn’t important.

A major study concluded that it doesn’t matter which diet program your choose, as long as it is one that reduces your calorie intake and is healthy for your heart (low in saturated fat and cholesterol). In other words , the best diet is the one you’ll stick to, not necessarily the one currently topping the best seller list.

Thanks,

Health-Dec-2012

More Time On Violent Video Games, More Aggression

A new study provides the first experimental evidence that the negative effects of playing violent video games can accumulate over time.

Researchers found that people who played a violent video game for three consecutive days showed increases in aggressive behavior each day they played. Even a single session of playing a violent video game tends to increase short-term aggression.

Researchers compared playing video games to smoking cigarettes. A single cigarette won’t cause lung cancer, but smoking over weeks for months or years greatly increases the risk.

In the same way, repeated exposure to violent video games may have a cumulative effect on aggression.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Wellness,

23/12/2012

Gopi Krishna Piramal Memorial Hospita

Peninsula Corporate Park, Piramal Tower Annex, Ganpatrao Kadam Marg, Lower Parel West , Mumbai Maharastra-400013

Life Line Hospital.

Opp. S.T. Stand, NH 4, Raigad Maharastra-410206

Dr. Bedekar's Hospital for Women & Children

Shiva Shakthi', M Karve Path, Naupada, Mumbai Maharastra-400062

Dhanwantari Hospital

DL Vaidya Road, Behind Shiv Sena Bhawan, Mumbai Maharastra-400028

The Apollo Clinic

1st Floor, Ambika Apartment, A- Wings, Mahakali Caves Road Mumbai Maharastra-400093

Masina Hospital

Sant Savta Marg, Byculla East,, Behind Gloria Church, Mumbai Maharastra

The Origin Hospital

Opp Hiranandani Meadows, Off Pokhran Rd 2, Mumbai Maharastra-400610

Abhay Hospital

Palwal Palwal Haryana

Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children

Acharya Dhonde Marg Near K.E.M. Hospital, Mumbai Maharastra-400012

Eat With Your Kids To Boost Their fruit, Veggies’ Intake

Eating meals together as a family, even once or twice a week, increases children’s daily fruit and vegetable intake, according to the researchers at the University of Leeds.

Children, who always ate a family meal together at a table consumed 125g (1.5 portions) more fruit and vegetables on average than children who never ate with their families. Even those who reported eating together only once or twice a week consumed 95g (1.2 portions) more than those who never ate together.

Even if it’s just one family meal a week, when children eat together with parents or older siblings they learn about eating. Watching the way their parents or siblings eat and the different types of food they eat is pivotal in creating their own food habits and preferences.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Well Being,

23/12/2012

Eat With Your Kids To Boost Their fruit, Veggies’ Intake

Eating meals together as a family, even once or twice a week, increases children’s daily fruit and vegetable intake, according to the researchers at the University of Leeds.

Children, who always ate a family meal together at a table consumed 125g (1.5 portions) more fruit and vegetables on average than children who never ate with their families. Even those who reported eating together only once or twice a week consumed 95g (1.2 portions) more than those who never ate together.

Even if it’s just one family meal a week, when children eat together with parents or older siblings they learn about eating. Watching the way their parents or siblings eat and the different types of food they eat is pivotal in creating their own food habits and preferences.

Thanks,

Hindustan Times- Well Being,

]23/12/2012

Aerobics Best For Weight Loss

Aerobic exercise that includes walking, running and swimming are an effective way to lose weight, says a new study.

The exercise is not only beneficial for weight loss, but for fat loss as well. Researchers from the Duke University Medical Centre, US, that conducted the survey on 234 obese adults, found aerobic exercises helped in increasing a person’s overall metabolic rate that resulted in significant weightn and fat loss. The group performing resistance exercises in the survey, however, gained weight due to an increase in lean body mass.

Thanks,

Hindustan  Times– Well Being,

23/12/2012

Shalby Hospitals

Opp. Karnavati Club, S G Road, Ahmedabad Gujarat-380015

Global Spoecialty Hospital

Behind Hotel Sita Monor, Gwalior MadhyaPRadesh

Goyal MRI and Diagnostic Centre

B-1/ 12, Safdurjung Enclave, New Delhi Delhi

Savitri Hospital

Kanjhawala Delhi Delhi

Virk Hospital

363, Randhir Lane, Near Dyal Singh College, Karnal Haryana-132001

Noble Hospital

203-A,205, Trimurti Arcade, 2nd Floor, Near Sarvodaya Hospital, L.B.S. Marg, Mumbai Maharastra-400086

A Burning Question

Both reconstructive surgery and home remedies help combat scarring and disfigurement in burn patients.

Dr. Uma Singh

Scarring is a major source of morbidity in patients with burns. Burn scars cause both functional and cosmetic problems.

Besides being disfiguring, burn scars also cause pain, burning , itching, decreased function and reduced range of motion.

Effective reconstructive surgery is, thus, of paramount importance to the patient’s quality of life. The long term care seeks to optimize the functional and aesthetic outcome.

Types of burns

The severity and type of scarring depends on the degree of burn. Several factors including the person’s age , size and depth of the burn determine severity. Generally, burns are categorized by their depth in degrees from one to three.

First degree burns cause minimal damage and affect only the epidermis or the surface layer. It causes pain, redness and swelling. With proper treatment, it is possible to prevent scars. In such cases, flush or soak the wound and cover it with a sterile non-adhesive bandage to protect it from friction or pressure.

A second degree burn affects the outer layer (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis) and causes redness, pain, swelling and blisters. These also affect sweat glands and hair follicles. A moist sterile bandage should be placed over the wound. Do not apply cold water, compresses or ointment and make sure the burn area stays clean.

A third degree burn affects the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis causing either charring or a translucent white colour, with coagulated vessels visible just below the skin surface. These burns are so deep that they damage the skin tissue and often leave the skin feeling numb. Treat third degree burns like second degree while getting the person to a medical professional as quickly as possible.

Home remedies for burns, especially from boiling water and oil, need to be administered quickly. Honey is commonly used for the burns. Covering the burns with honey helps reduce scarring.

Another remedy often used for first degree burns is diluted vinegar. Covered the injured area with a clean cloth soaked in diluted vinegar .it is usually  painless but, if it starts to pain, change the bandage.

Treatment

For a minor burn, hold the area under cool running water as the first step of treatment. In case of blistering, the cool water will take away the pain. Cover the area with a clean and sterile cloth. Do not apply any ointments, butter or oil.

A good home remedy to remove scars is to gently massage the area with almond oil. A twice a day massage will help reduce the scar.

Another method is to use fenugreek seeds. Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight. The next morning, grind the seeds into a fine paste  and apply gently on the mark and leave it on. Once the paste dries off, wash it off with  water. Apply this paste regularly to remove the scars.

Fresh lemon or tomato juice  is also very effective. Lemon juice has acidic properties that naturally lighten the scars. Freshly squeezed tomato juice is another natural bleaching agent.

First wash the burn area in cool water. Place a damp washcloth on the burn mark. Keep some fresh lemon juice ready. Moisten another washcloth with the lemon juice and dab gently on the mark. This will help cleanse  the skin and lighten the scar. Once this is done, apply fresh tomato juice on the mark. Repeat twice a day to get rid of the mark in a few days.

Colloidal silver is another healing agent with antiseptic properties. It also help damaged tissue regenerate. Major hospital burns unit use colloidal silver bandages and ointments. Severe burns often heal little or no scarring.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

16/12/2012

A Burning Question

Both reconstructive surgery and home remedies help combat scarring and disfigurement in burn patients.

Dr. Uma Singh

Scarring is a major source of morbidity in patients with burns. Burn scars cause both functional and cosmetic problems.

Besides being disfiguring, burn scars also cause pain, burning , itching, decreased function and reduced range of motion.

Effective reconstructive surgery is, thus, of paramount importance to the patient’s quality of life. The long term care seeks to optimize the functional and aesthetic outcome.

Types of burns

The severity and type of scarring depends on the degree of burn. Several factors including the person’s age , size and depth of the burn determine severity. Generally, burns are categorized by their depth in degrees from one to three.

First degree burns cause minimal damage and affect only the epidermis or the surface layer. It causes pain, redness and swelling. With proper treatment, it is possible to prevent scars. In such cases, flush or soak the wound and cover it with a sterile non-adhesive bandage to protect it from friction or pressure.

A second degree burn affects the outer layer (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis) and causes redness, pain, swelling and blisters. These also affect sweat glands and hair follicles. A moist sterile bandage should be placed over the wound. Do not apply cold water, compresses or ointment and make sure the burn area stays clean.

A third degree burn affects the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis causing either charring or a translucent white colour, with coagulated vessels visible just below the skin surface. These burns are so deep that they damage the skin tissue and often leave the skin feeling numb. Treat third degree burns like second degree while getting the person to a medical professional as quickly as possible.

Home remedies for burns, especially from boiling water and oil, need to be administered quickly. Honey is commonly used for the burns. Covering the burns with honey helps reduce scarring.

Another remedy often used for first degree burns is diluted vinegar. Covered the injured area with a clean cloth soaked in diluted vinegar .it is usually  painless but, if it starts to pain, change the bandage.

Treatment

For a minor burn, hold the area under cool running water as the first step of treatment. In case of blistering, the cool water will take away the pain. Cover the area with a clean and sterile cloth. Do not apply any ointments, butter or oil.

A good home remedy to remove scars is to gently massage the area with almond oil. A twice a day massage will help reduce the scar.

Another method is to use fenugreek seeds. Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight. The next morning, grind the seeds into a fine paste  and apply gently on the mark and leave it on. Once the paste dries off, wash it off with  water. Apply this paste regularly to remove the scars.

Fresh lemon or tomato juice  is also very effective. Lemon juice has acidic properties that naturally lighten the scars. Freshly squeezed tomato juice is another natural bleaching agent.

First wash the burn area in cool water. Place a damp washcloth on the burn mark. Keep some fresh lemon juice ready. Moisten another washcloth with the lemon juice and dab gently on the mark. This will help cleanse  the skin and lighten the scar. Once this is done, apply fresh tomato juice on the mark. Repeat twice a day to get rid of the mark in a few days.

Colloidal silver is another healing agent with antiseptic properties. It also help damaged tissue regenerate. Major hospital burns unit use colloidal silver bandages and ointments. Severe burns often heal little or no scarring.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

16/12/2012

No More Aching Joints

Dr. Ashok Goel Offers easy remedies to combat joint pain in this cold season

Arthritis is a disorder caused by inflammation of one or more joints. Patients who have arthritis usually complain of constant joint pain that gets aggravated during winters. However , there a few simple things that will help relieve this excruciating pain.

Keep the affected areas warm : During winters, aching joints are affected by the cold and the severity of pain increases . Keeping those parts covered help keep the joints warm and also relieve pain.

Remain active: People generally tend to be inactive during winters and this causes stiffening of joints. Exercising regularly and moving around helps increase blood circulation, which in turn reduces pain.

Do not overstrain: However staying active does not mean straining oneself. Overdoing exercise might put pressure on the joints and aggravate the pain.

Avoid injuries: Injuries can restrict movement further so ensure that the exercise routine does not cause harm.

Eat a balanced diet: Arthritis patients should avoid foods that increase the uric acid content in the body. Avoid intake of excess alcohol and red meat. A healthy and balanced diet that contains fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grain is the best.

Thanks,

The Hindu-Well Being,

16/12/2012

Your Body Clock is Ticking

Jayanthi Murahari explains why it’s important to start the day early.

When was the last time you saw the sun rise? For most of us, the answer is never. Our pace is set by our gadgets; they decide when we start the day; and this can sometimes stretch to the next day. In fact, a few people even stay up the entire night, at least getting to see the sun rise, in a manner of speaking. All this is normal . what’s become unusual is waking up early and falling asleep at the right time at night.

I hated waking up early during school holidays . My mom usually said,”Has the sun ever failed to rise? You should wake up early like the sun.” I wonder how she knew the significance of waking up with  the sun . May be she just told me what her mother had told her. Wherever she got from, she was absolutely right. There is a pattern and a unique rhythm in Nature, which depends on the sun. Our biological body has been following this rhythm forever and breaking it causes disturbances.

This does not seen too important at a micro level but, at a macro level, it has humongous implications. Our changing lifestyle increases health complications. Our body, similar to plants and animals, follows a pattern or a timetable called the circadian rhythm, which is any biological process that displays an endogenous clock of 24 hours. ‘Circa ‘ means around ‘dian’  means day; so, roughly, the word means going around the day. This rhythm adjusts to the local environment through external clues called ‘Zeitgebers’ (the time givers). The most common zeitberger is daylight. Our biological clock affects the daily rhythm of many physiological processes.

Going by the system (see box), it is best to have a balanced and sumptuous breakfast in the morning, as it prevents binging during the day. It is also a ghood idea to drink water and fresh juice through the mid-morning and have an early lunch when the sun is at its peak. As the sun starts setting, one should reduce the portion of food and have an early dinner.

Though the circadian rhythm tends to synchronise  with cycles of light and dark, other factors that can influence it are meal timings, temperature, stress and exercise. So think about how our present lifestyle can affect the rhythm. Today, many of us have our biggest meal at dinner, just when the body needs the least energy and when bowel movements are suppressed . This way, most of the food gets stored as fat.

When we work late at night, with the help of electrical lights, our body’s photoreceptors sense light and slowly suppress metatonin (a hormone secreted to slow down metabolism and to help in sleeping) . So not only do we fake light to work, we also fake darkness in the morning to sleep. We alter the natural cycle and disrupt the circadian rhythm, which otherwise follows nature.

If you start walking early with the sun, you can reset the biological clock and rely on your body to do the rest. Studies have also shown that light has a direct effect on health because of the way it influences the circadian rhythm. Disrupting the circadian and biological rhythm has significant and adverse consequences  on health like fatigue, disorientation and insomnia. Remember the old saying : make hay while the sun shines. Now go do it.

How it works

For an early riser the system works like this:

6:00 a.m. :- Wake up

6:30 a.m.:- sharpest rise in blood pressure

7:30 a.m.:- Melatonin stops secretion

8:30 a.m.:-Bowel movements likely

9:00 a.m.:- Cortisol secretion

10:00 a.m.:- High alertness

Noon          :- Metabolism at its peak

2:30 p.m.:- Best Coordination

3:30 p.m.:- Fastest reaction time

5:00 p.m.:- Optimum Cardiovascular efficiency and muscle strength

6:30 p.m.:- Blood pressure is high

7:00 p.m.:- Body temperature is high

9:00 p.m.:- Melatonin secretion starts

10:30 p.m.:- Bowel movements suppressed

11:00 p.m.:- Sleep

2:00   a.m.:- Deepest Sleep

4:30 a.m. :- Lowest body temperature

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

23/12/2012

Beat, Treat and defeat Cancer

When is it OK to put the words “good news” and “cancer” in the same sentence? Right now! Overall cancer rates are failing – dropping about a half a per cent annually for cancers of the breast, cervix, colon, lings and prostate  in recent years. This means your attempts to prevent it (with the HPV vaccine, aspirin, exercise, quitting tobacco, making better food choices and / or stress management) or to detect it earlier with mammography , colonoscopy and physical exams are working.

Wow-worthy advances:

Some of the toughest cancers have been taking it on the chin lately. Lung cancer may become easier to treat as more long term smokers quit and then sign up for yearly low-dose computed to mography screenings that detect it in early stages. )Ask your doctor about the CT scan if you’re 55 to 74 and smoked the equivalent of a pack a day for 30 years or more.)

Next there’s new evidence that vitamin D-3 (at prescription strength doses) eases breast cancer treatment pain by 30 per cent, making it easier to stick with therapy.

The power of prevention:

Meanwhile, researchers from Washington University recently published this bold statement in a major medical journal: “More than half of the cancer occurring today is preventable by applying knowledge that we already have.” In other words, your lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking, eating healthfully and working out regularly, make a big difference.

Keep your midsection slim:

This alone can slash your risk for a fatal cancer by 20 per cent. Keeping your weight within a healthy range and avoiding belly flab is especially effective against cancers of the breast (in women after menopause), Colon, Uterus, Oesophagus, Kidneys and Pancreas and may trim back your odds for cancers of the gallbladder, liver, cervix, ovaries and prostate, too. The link may be that less belly fat means lower levels of cancer – fuelling hormones such as insulin and oestrogen.

Say “Yes” to the fibre in whole grains and produce:

Eating beans three times a week cuts risk for precancerous colon polyps 33 per cent; brown rice just once a week drops it 40 per cent. Green Vegetables and dried fruit supply vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that may help your body fight back.

Love a meat alternative:

Avoiding red meat could cut your overall cancer risk by 40 per cent. Substituting fish could specifically lower your risk for colon cancer by 40 per cent.

Walk for 30 minutes today. Repeat tomorrow:

Thirty to 60 minutes of exercise a day can lower your odds for cancers of the colon, breast, prostate, lungs and uterus.

Ask about aspirin:

Taking 162 milligrams of aspirin daily (sip a glass of warm water before and after) may prevent several types of cancer, such as breast, prostate and colon.

King Features Syndicate.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

16/12/2012

Roll Back Your Real Age

Teenage girls swoon over Edward Cullen, the forever young, eternally romantic vampire of “ The Twilight Saga.” “ But you don’t need a vampire’s “kiss” – or the hassles that go with it – to gain a longer, younger life. Just follow these six steps:

No.1: Visit a dentist every six months and floss every day: Avoid gum disease to reduce body wide inflammation that boosts your risk for cardio problems (heart attack, stroke and angina) and diabetes  not to mention osteoporosis, problem pregnancies and respiratory disease. As a bonus, a healthy set of pearly whites make you look years younger.

No. 2: go for two baby aspirins a day- with half a glass of warm water before and after –to prevent gastrointestinal problems, cardio problems, protect the brain and decrease risk of cancer. Remember  to always get your doc’s approval before taking any aspirin regularly.

No. 3: Go for three servings of salmon or trout a week: their DHA omega-3 fatty acid content protects your heart, eyes, brain and waistline. Eating fish also reduces the risk of colon cancer.

No.4: Go for four sessions of cardio and resistance  training every week and you’ll s\lash your risk for heart attack, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, obesity, dementia and low moods. Exercise is a one-stop health fix because it rejuvenates the tiny power plants – mitochondria – inside every cell in your body so you feel more energetic, burn more calories around the clock and process fat and blood sugar a whole lot more efficiently.

No. 5: Go for five small fistfuls of nuts every week. These will slash your risk for belly fat, diabetes, heart disease and even knock back heart-menacing LDL cholesterol by 10 points and high Triglycerides  by 20 points. One fistful has 160 to 200 calories. So don’t overdo it. Eating four to five servings of fruit and a handful of nuts daily can make your RealAge more than four years younger.

No. 6: caffeine boost: you’ll delay or help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s with two cups of caffeinated coffee a day.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

16/12/2012

Leave Your Car At Home

While you might love to take a quick five-minute ride, the truth is, every short hop you make in your car takes years off your life. We’ve gotten so leg-lazy that some say cars are the new tobacco and just as dangerous for public health.

So replace one of your short car trips a day with a walk. This is a great first step toward getting your 10,000 steps a day. Other great ways to increase your stride time:

Invest in a rolling shopping bag or trundle bag to carry whatever you’d have transported in the car.

At the mall? Remember , most malls have stairs. Eliminate elevators and escalators whenever possible.

Play dates during the day? Walk your kids to their friend’s house, and walk back to pick them up later.

Walking opportunities are everywhere. You can slash your risk of death in the next few years by 24 per cent if you get in seven hours of moderate activity a week.

So turn off your engines!

King Features Syndicate.

Thanks,

The Hindu – Well Being,

23/12/2012

Hassle – Free Holiday

What boosts your sex life, reduces risk of heart attack, makes you more successful at work and helps keep your brain young? Omega-3 DHA? Aspirin? Well, maybe both. But there’s one sure thing: A vacation.

It breaks your routine, clears your mind and relaxes you. But these days, balanced work, family and a budget can put holidays on hold. So get the health benefits even if you stay  home. Get safe sunshine! In your backyard, hiking with the kids or touring a new city, getting more vitamin D-3 and relaxation is life – extending. Go for 1,000 IU of D-3 per day from vitamins, D-fortified foods and sun exposure. After 10 minutes or so, slather on micronized zinc oxide SPF 30 sunblock!

Find nature. Whether you trek up a mountain or plant a bed of tulips, the sights , scents and sounds of nature reduce stress and crank up passion, and help you make better decisions at work. (Bring nature to work with plants or photographs).

Laugh loud and long. Tickle your funny bone to bathe your body in feel good hormones, fill your organs with oxygen-rich blood and lower your blood pressure.

Plan your next break. The delight of thinking about a holiday is as relaxing –or even more so- than taking one!

King features Syndicate.

Thanks,

The Hindu- Well Being,

23/12/2012

Keep The Pounds Off

If you’ve worked hard to achieve a healthy  weight , you want to see (and maintain) the results. To do that, avoid refined carbs (white bread, white rice) and fatty meats (including all red meat). They deliver saturated fat and trigger blood-sugar levels that bounce all over, fuelling cravings and making it harder to stay trim.

The healthiest way to keep weight off once you’ve lost it is not to slash all carbs or eliminate healthy fat. A low-fat  diet (20 per cent of daily calories) causes your metabolism to slow down , so you burn fewer calories a day than you  would (with the same amount of activity) on more a moderate diet. A low-carb diet (10 per cent of daily calories ) may crank up the fat burn, but it raises stress hormone levels. That increases inflammation and risk of heart disease, cancer and overall grumpiness.

So, to keep from regaining weight, the winning formula is found around the shores of the Mediterranean: Lots of unrefined carbohydrates (40 per cent of calories from veggies and 100 per cent whole grains); mono and polyunsaturated fats (from olives, canola, avocados, walnuts, peanuts) and minimal saturated fat. Go easy on animal protein; more from fish and skinless poultry. And daily physical activity is a must.

King Features Syndicate

Thanks,

The Hindu – Well Being,

23/12/2012