Demystifying Anxiety and Depression: Myths and Facts

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. Yet, despite their prevalence, there remain numerous misconceptions and stigmas surrounding these conditions. In this blog, we aim to shed light on the myths and facts surrounding anxiety and depression, offering a clearer understanding of these often misunderstood mental health issues.

Myth #1: Anxiety And Depression Are Just A Sign Of Weakness.

Fact: Mental health disorders are not a reflection of one’s strength or character. They are complex conditions influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Anyone, regardless of their strength or resilience, can experience anxiety and depression.

Anxiety and depression are not a choice, and those who suffer from these conditions are not weak. Seeking help and treatment for these disorders is an act of strength and courage. Understanding that these conditions are medical issues is crucial for reducing the stigma surrounding them.

Myth #2: Anxiety And Depression Are Just A Passing Phase; People Should “Snap Out Of It.”

Fact: Anxiety and depression are not temporary mood swings; they are clinical conditions that can persist for months or even years. While some individuals may experience occasional bouts of sadness or anxiety, clinical depression, and anxiety disorders involve persistent symptoms that often require professional treatment.

Telling someone to “snap out of it” minimises the seriousness of their condition and may discourage them from seeking help. These disorders can’t be overcome through willpower alone and usually require therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Myth #3: Only Traumatic Events Can Cause Anxiety And Depression.

Fact: While traumatic events can trigger or exacerbate anxiety and depression, they can also develop without any obvious external cause. These disorders are influenced by a wide range of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life experiences. Sometimes, a seemingly minor stressor can trigger a significant mental health issue in a susceptible individual.

It’s important to recognize that anxiety and depression are not solely the result of traumatic experiences, and individuals should not be judged based on the perceived severity of their life events.

Myth #4: People With Anxiety And Depression Can Just “Cheer Up.”

Fact: It’s a common misconception that individuals with anxiety and depression can simply choose to feel better. However, these disorders are characterised by chemical imbalances in the brain, and the affected person often has limited control over their emotions. Telling someone to “cheer up” or “think positive” can be counterproductive and make them feel more misunderstood.

Supportive and empathetic communication is far more beneficial than simply telling someone to change their mindset. Encouraging them to seek professional help and offering a listening ear can be invaluable.

Myth #5: Medication Is The Only Treatment For Anxiety And Depression.

Fact: Medication can be a helpful component of treatment for anxiety and depression, but it is not the sole solution. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), talk therapy, or psychotherapy, is often recommended alongside medication. Therapy helps individuals learn coping strategies, manage their symptoms, and understand the underlying causes of their conditions.

Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, also play a crucial role in managing anxiety and depression. Different individuals may require different combinations of treatments, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach.

Myth #6: People With Anxiety And Depression Can “Will” Themselves To Get Better.

Fact: It’s not as simple as “willing” oneself to get better when dealing with anxiety and depression. These disorders often involve persistent, intrusive thoughts and overwhelming feelings of hopelessness. Expecting someone to overcome these challenges through sheer willpower is unrealistic and unhelpful.

Recovery from anxiety and depression requires patience, time, and consistent effort. It often involves a combination of therapies, medication, and support from friends and family. Encouraging self-compassion and seeking professional help are vital steps on the path to recovery.

Myth #7: Anxiety And Depression Only Affect Adults.

Fact: Anxiety and depression can affect people of all ages, including children and adolescents. Childhood and adolescent anxiety and depression may manifest differently from adult symptoms. Children may exhibit symptoms such as irritability, school refusal, or changes in sleep and appetite patterns.

Early intervention is crucial for addressing these disorders in young individuals, as untreated anxiety and depression can have long-term effects on a person’s development and well-being.

Myth #8: People With Anxiety And Depression Are Just Seeking Attention.

Fact: This myth perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health. People with anxiety and depression do not seek attention but rather understanding and support. It’s essential to approach individuals with empathy and compassion, as they are going through a challenging and often isolating experience.

Need For Professional Care While Battling Anxiety And Depression.

Dismissive attitudes can further isolate those who are suffering, making it less likely for them to reach out for help or confide in others. Treating individuals with anxiety and depression with respect and support is the best way to assist them on their journey to recovery.

Seeking professional care while battling anxiety and depression is of utmost importance. These mental health conditions are complex and can have a profound impact on an individual’s life. Professional care provides several critical benefits.

First and foremost, it ensures accurate diagnosis. Trained mental health providers can assess symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. This tailored approach is crucial because what works for one person may not work for another.

Professional care also offers evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, which has a proven track record in treating anxiety and depression. Additionally, in cases where medication is necessary, psychiatrists can prescribe and manage it effectively.

The supportive environment created by professionals allows individuals to express their thoughts and feelings without judgement. This safe space fosters open communication and aids in the healing process.

Regular progress monitoring is another essential aspect of professional care. It helps track how symptoms are evolving and guides adjustments to the treatment plan. Ultimately, seeking professional care is the most reliable and effective way to address anxiety and depression, promoting a path to recovery and improved well-being.

Conclusion

We at RRMCH believe that anxiety and depression are complex and widespread mental health disorders that require a more nuanced and compassionate understanding. Thus, dispelling the myths surrounding these conditions is essential to reduce the stigma and encourage people to seek the help and support they need. Thus, we believe that by promoting accurate information and fostering empathy, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Just remember, seeking professional help from learned psychologists and providing unwavering support are the most effective ways to help someone on their path to recovery.

Sleep and Snoring: Unmasking The Silent Epidemic

When we think about sleep and snoring, we often picture a humorous scene in a sitcom where the loud snores of a character disrupt the peace of a shared bedroom, leading to a few laughs. However, behind the veil of this seemingly innocuous nighttime habit lies a much larger and more serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. In this blog, we will delve into the reasons why sleep and snoring are a problem far bigger than they appear.

A Health Crisis In Disguise

Snoring is bigger than just sleep disturbances can create irritability and tension in relationships. The other issues that arise due to sleep and snore are:

Sleep Crisis

Sleep Apnea: Snoring can be an indicator of a more severe problem – sleep apnea. This sleep disorder involves brief, repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to a cascade of health issues. The interrupted oxygen flow during sleep can result in high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It’s not just a nuisance; it’s a health crisis.

Sleep Quality: Even without sleep apnea, chronic snoring can severely affect the quality of sleep. The consequences of poor sleep quality are not limited to feeling groggy in the morning; it can lead to cognitive impairment, mood swings, and an overall decline in well-being.

The Economic Toll

Productivity Loss: Sleep disorders like sleep apnea result in lost productivity. Individuals suffering from these conditions often experience daytime fatigue, making it difficult to focus at work or engage in daily activities. This, in turn, affects not only personal performance but also the productivity of companies and the economy as a whole.

Healthcare Costs: The healthcare costs associated with untreated sleep disorders are substantial. Regular doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and potential surgical interventions can be financially burdensome. Moreover, the mental and physical health problems stemming from sleep disorders can lead to higher healthcare expenditures.

Cognitive Performance And Mental Health Issue

Depression and Anxiety: Chronic sleep issues are intrinsically linked to mental health problems. The lack of quality sleep can exacerbate conditions like depression and anxiety, making the battle against these issues even more challenging.

Impaired Memory and Learning: Sleep is not just a period of inactivity; it’s a critical time for memory consolidation and learning. Poor sleep quality can lead to impaired cognitive functions, hindering academic and professional success. It’s a problem that extends beyond the night and into our daily lives.

Safety Hazards: Excessive daytime fatigue resulting from sleep disturbances can pose a significant risk. Individuals with disrupted sleep patterns are more prone to accidents, especially when driving or operating heavy machinery. This puts not only their lives but also the lives of others at risk.

The Overlooked Problem

One of the most significant challenges in addressing sleep and snoring issues is the lack of awareness and stigma that surrounds them. Many individuals who snore or suffer from sleep apnea may not even realise the severity of their condition, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Sleep And Snoring Treatment

Sleep and snoring issues can be effectively managed through a variety of treatments and, in some cases, surgery. Here, we will explore some of the common approaches to address these problems.

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Weight management: Losing excess weight can reduce snoring and improve sleep quality.
  • Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime.
  • Changing sleep position: Sleeping on your side instead of your back can alleviate snoring.
  • Use Dental devices as it helps reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, reducing snoring and sleep apnea.

Therapies

  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) involves a machine that delivers a steady stream of air pressure through a mask, keeping the airway open during sleep.
  • Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) provides different airway pressures for inhalation and exhalation, often used for more severe sleep apnea.
  • Devices or clothing designed to encourage sleeping on your side.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) can help individuals with insomnia and sleep disorders improve their sleep patterns.

Medications And Nasal Devices

  • Nasal strips and dilators can improve airflow through the nasal passages, reducing snoring.
  • In some cases, specific medications may be prescribed to treat underlying conditions contributing to snoring or sleep apnea.

Surgery

  • Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) procedure removes excess tissue from the throat and palate to widen the airway.
  • Genioglossus Advancement (GA) repositions the tongue muscle attachment to prevent airway collapse.
  • Palatal Implants are small implants inserted into the soft palate to stiffen it and reduce vibrations that cause snoring.
  • Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA) repositions the upper and lower jaw to enlarge the airway.
  • Inspire Therapy comes as a surgically implanted device that stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to prevent airway obstruction during sleep.
  • Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy is used in children and some adults where the enlarged tonsils and adenoids are removed which can improve sleep and reduce snoring.

It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional or sleep specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment or surgical option based on the specific underlying causes of snoring and sleep-related issues.

Conclusion

The problem of sleep and snoring is indeed more significant than it initially seems. It’s a multifaceted issue with far-reaching implications for our physical and mental health, our relationships, and our productivity. The good news is that awareness is growing, and there are effective treatments available. If you or someone you know is struggling with snoring or sleep disturbances, it’s essential to seek professional help. It’s time to unmask this silent epidemic and ensure that everyone gets the peaceful, restorative sleep they deserve. So, visit us at RRMCH and get your appointment with the doctors.

What Are Clinical Trials? Are They Only Restricted To Cancer Treatment?

A clinical trial is a human research study that aims to provide specific answers about novel treatments, vaccines, or diagnostic techniques, as well as novel applications of currently available medications. Clinical trials are used to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new medications, tests, and treatments. The safest approach to discovering therapies and medicines that benefit people is through careful execution of clinical trials.

New investigational therapies and procedures are tested in the lab and on animals before the most promising ones are brought into human clinical trials. There are various phases of clinical studies. As a trial progresses, more knowledge is learned about the prospective treatment, its dangers, its potential efficacy, and issues relating to quality of life.

What Happens In A Clinical Trial?

Participating in a clinical study could make you one of the first individuals to gain the advantages of a novel therapy. However, it is extremely crucial to examine a clinical trial’s phases before getting into the process.

Testing a new medicine

  • To determine if new drugs are safe and effective, all clinical studies go through a number of stages.
  • The drugs will typically be evaluated against control, which is a different form of treatment.
  • Either a placebo or an established standard treatment will be used in place of this one.

Phase 1 trials

  • The medication is administered to a small group of volunteers, some of whom may be healthy.
  • For the first time, the medicine is being tested on human participants.
  • Researchers examine potential adverse effects and determine what dosage should be used for treatment.
  • If participants experience no negative effects or only minimal side effects, researchers only increase the dose after starting with a low amount.

Phase 2 trials

  • The new medication is being evaluated on a bigger population of sick people. This is done in order to better understand its immediate consequences.

Phase 3 trials

  • Trials are conducted on medications that have successfully completed stages 1 and 2.
  • To determine whether the medication is more effective in real-world settings and whether it has significant adverse effects, it is tested on bigger groups of sick individuals and compared to an existing treatment or a placebo.
  • Many clinical trials last a year or longer and include thousands of patients.

Phase 4 trials

  • While the medication is being used in practice, researchers continue to look into its effectiveness, side effects, and safety.
  • Not necessary for all medications.
  • This only applied to medications that have completed all prior tests and been granted marketing licences; a licence denotes that the medication is available only with a prescription.

 Diseases Clinical Trials Can Treat

Whenever we talk about clinical trials the first thing that comes to mind is cancer clinical research. However, do you know that clinical trials aren’t restricted to cancer? Check the listing mentioned below.

Serial numberTherapy Area 
1Cancers
2Cardiovascular & Circulatory Diseases
3Digestive Diseases
4Musculoskeletal Diseases
5Infectious Diseases
6Endocrinology & Metabolic Disease
7Nervous System Diseases
8Mental Health & Behavioral Disorders
9Respiratory Diseases
10Blood Diseases
11Blood sugar

Why Are Clinical Trials Important?

People are now surviving longer thanks to cancer medicines that have been effective in clinical trials in the past. Clinical trials are how doctors decide whether new medicines are safe, efficient, and outperform existing ones. Additionally, they assist us in raising patients’ quality of life both during and after treatment. Participating in a clinical study advances our understanding of cancer and helps future patients receive better cancer care. Clinical trials are essential to developing new cancer treatments here’s why:

Access to the latest therapies

Only clinical trials can provide access to some of the most cutting-edge therapies because of how quickly our knowledge of fatal diseases is developing. Numerous new treatment options from this research are still being studied.

Closer monitoring

Usually, healthcare professionals monitor trial participants more closely than other patients. In-person consultations and a predetermined number of imaging tests are frequently required by the research project itself.

Patients occasionally believe they will be used as “guinea pigs,” yet the contrary is actually true. You’ll have access to a second group of medical professionals who can address your questions and concerns. This is an advantage of participating in a trial. Many people find that more frequent check-ins are comforting because they can see how they’re responding to treatment.

Reduced cost

Patients typically don’t pay for clinical trial medications. Instead, the study team pays for those expenses. However, for the majority of patients, clinical trial therapies are no more expensive than conventional treatments. There may be travel costs or imaging services that the study does not cover.

Make contact with your insurance company and medical staff before enrolling in a trial to estimate your expenses. Social workers and financial counsellors are readily accessible to help you at many cancer centres.

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Is Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy Treatable?

A group of muscle abnormalities that impair a child’s capacity to control movement are collectively referred to as cerebral palsy. It results from aberrant brain growth or damage before, during, or soon after birth. Depending on the extent and location of the brain damage, cerebral palsy has varying effects on various kids.

As the areas of the brain that control muscle function are damaged, the messages or signals from the brain to the related muscles are disrupted, which has some effect on a child’s movement.

Children with Cerebral Palsy may struggle with their balance, reflexes, muscle tone, and motor skills. Nevertheless, other characteristics like learning and language abilities could be comparable to those of a typical youngster, again depending on the extent of brain injury.

Symptoms Of Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy

Abnormal muscle tone, which affects balance, posture, and motor function, can be a defining feature of both cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. Infants with the disorders sometimes go undiagnosed until they begin to exhibit developmental difficulties. The majority of kids are diagnosed between 18 and 24 months.

 Cerebral palsy symptomsMuscular dystrophy symptoms
Difficulty walkingDifficulty eatingFine motor skill problemsLearning problemsStiff musclesTremorsDifficulties getting up, running, or moving feetGrowth delaysLearning problemsMuscle pain and weakness  

There is a subtype of cerebral palsy that is distinguished by hypotonia (low muscle tone), even though cerebral palsy is typically characterised by high muscle tone. A characteristic of muscular dystrophy is the weakening of the muscles with time. The muscle tone of those with muscular dystrophy declines as the disease worsens.

Children with muscular dystrophy are likely to develop respiratory and cardiac issues by the time they are teenagers. This is due to the fact that the heart and diaphragm are muscles, and their dysfunction may be brought on by a shortage of dystrophin.

Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy: similar or different?

Although the two illnesses may present similarly, they are fundamentally very distinct from one another. A section of the brain has been damaged, which is the underlying cause of the neurological disorder cerebral palsy. A hereditary disorder called muscular dystrophy, in contrast, has as its primary cause damage to the gene that produces the protein dystrophin, which is crucial for the preservation of normal muscle cell proliferation.

However, these diseases would impact a child’s ability to move, whether through delays in the development of motor milestones like crawling, sitting, standing, and walking. A child with cerebral palsy and dystonia both impact the capacity to control muscles, therefore the following secondary consequences of muscular dystrophy may also occur:

  • Insufficient muscular growth as a result of inactivity.
  • Deformities of the feet, arms, and hands, as well as malformed bones and joints and muscle imbalances that may cause complications including scoliosis and hip dislocations.
  • Compensatory movement techniques to facilitate movement, such as excessive hip rotations when walking rather than a straight line.
  • Easily exhausted because they tend to use more energy on simple movements than other youngsters do.

Can Cerebral Palsy or Muscular Dystrophy be treated?

Children who have Cerebral Palsy have permanent, non-progressive brain damage, which indicates that while the disorder cannot be treated, the damage won’t become worse. If necessary precautions are not taken, the damage’s side effects could worsen. The muscles will get weaker with age for kids with muscular dystrophy. Medication can, however, lessen the impact of the decline.

Physiotherapists work to help children with movement impairments and challenges learn the most effective ways to maximise their bodies’ functional mobility. Depending on their capabilities and needs, interventions would be concentrated on promoting mobility and achieving age-appropriate gross motor skills (e.g., sitting, crawling, standing, walking, running, and jumping). This would be done through enjoyable games and activities that incorporate training for strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, and endurance.

Intervention would include dealing with any secondary problems that these kids could have, like coping mechanisms for scoliosis and hip dislocations. The kid’s quality of life can be maximised by a physiotherapist working with the child’s carers to empower the youngster and maximise their independent movement, even though they may not be able to undo the underlying harm. Thus, to optimise a child’s potential and to lessen or better control the illnesses’ secondary effects, early detection, diagnosis, and intervention are essential. If the field of Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy motor mobility and how it is treated interests your medical mind visit us at RRMCH and fulfil the dream set by the medical aspirant in you. For more information contact us and scroll through our website.

Corona Virus – Facts Overview

As the corona virus or Wuhan virus scare is catching like wild fire and as the number of infected people across the world. The cases in china are about to reach 15000 and over 300 people are said to be already affected. The virus is on the spread across the world as it is highly contagious and the UN has already declared it as a medical emergency. While the world is on high alert and is also flown out their nationals from the country, the clouds of this virus causing a havoc are already mounting. Here are a few tips to keep the corona virus infection at bay.

  1. Wash your hands with soap and water on regular basis or with alcohol based disinfectant
  2. While sneezing or coughing cover your mouth with a tissue or hand
  3. Avoid close contact with people suffering from cold or flu like symptoms
  4. Do not eat under cooked meat or eggs
  5. Avoid contact with farm animals or the wild
  6. Stay indoors at home when sick
  7. Clean all objects and surfaces that are dirty or touched
  8. Avoid touching your mouth, eyes or hands with dirty hands
  9. Use a mask whenever outdoor
  10. Always carry a disinfectant along when outdoor

There’s also a debate around the transfer of the virus without showing symptoms. While the Germans are firm that asymptomatic transmission is possible, nothing is yet officially conveyed.

Well, as the cases in China keep exploding as the days pass by, the risk of it spreading across continents is always there. As of now the process of developing a vaccine for controlling the virus is on but it might take almost a year before it comes to the pharmacy. Until then, prevention is the only way out. So, stay safe and clean to keep the condition out of harm’s way.

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Sourced from Internet

BRAT Diet For Stomach Health

If You are suffering from stomach related issues then, one of the most recommended diets is the BRAT diet. For the uninitiated, BRAT is an acronym standing for Banana, rice, Applesauce and toast. The reason behind recommending these foods when having stomach problems is that they are light on the stomach and bland as well. Stomach problems can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fatigue and the BRAT diet definitely plays a role in keeping you energized without side effects.

Brat Diet For Stomach Health

The BRAT diet is about eating bananas, applesauce, rice and toast in abundance as these foods are bland I taste and easy on your digestive systems. Well, if you cannot eat the same food over and over until you get well, you may choose from other bland foods like weak tea, apple juice or soda, broth, boiled potatoes as well as cooked cereals.

Though you need to avoid dairy products like milk and more as well as oily, fried and spicy food. You also need to avoid raw or uncooked food as well as food that is very hot or very cold. Stay away from alcohol as well as coffee or other foods containing caffeine.

Once 24 hours of illness have passed you may consume clear liquids again, sipping on at an interval of 10 minutes. Try drinking water, chicken broth, apple juice and similar liquids.

Although the BRAT diet is a common recommendation by Doctors in USA, children and infants are excluded form the recommendation.

The reason being that these food cannot fulfil the body requirements in terms of micro nutrients and proteins.

But, if you are suffering from severe bout of diarrhea then you need to seek medical assistance immediately. Also in case of severe abdominal or rectal pain, black or bloody stools or a high fever or above 102 F.

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Plaques of Pregnancy or Puppp – A Rare Pregnancy Rash

We all know that pregnancy can bring along a lot of side effects also like fatigue, nausea, vomiting and more. But, one rare condition that only a few or say 1 in 160 women get are pregnancy PUPPPs. Though, it is known to be a common condition experienced by pregnant women, not all are aware of it. Here’s and over view of Pruritic Urticarial Papules or PUPPPS, also known as plaques or Pregnancy.

Plaques of Pregnancy or Puppp

Though as on day scientists and medical experts aren’t really sure of the reason behind the surfacing of such itchy rashes in women during pregnancy but believe that it could be due to excessive stretching of skin in the months nearing to delivery.

Also, there is no cure. The rashes tend to appear in the third semester and disappear within 2 weeks post birthing. The rashes start mostly from the stomach and spread across your thighs, legs, hands and neck area. They look like red swollen patches and are extremely itchy.

Another reason cited by experts around rash is the circulation of immune fetal cells through the body. These cells spark an immune response that in turn leads to the rash surfacing. The theory finds support in the fact that the fetal cells do stay in the body for short time after delivery. But, it’s not proved yet.

The itching could get worse if you tend to scratch it. Better to avoid scratching. In hotter regions the itching and pain is much worse and proper care needs to be taken for relief. Here are a few tips around relief from rashes

  1. Ice – Cool ice compresses can help relieve the itching. Wrap the ice compress in a cloth and apply few time during the day.
  2. Oatmeal – Oatmeal baths are known to be effective home remedy for may skin conditions including this one.
  3. Peppermint – Peppermint comes with menthol and it is known to have cooling effects. Use peppermint oil on the rashes or you might consume the prescribed quantity after consulting your doctor.
  4. Moisturiser –
  5. Clove oil – Clove oil is also known to have cooling effects because it contains antimicrobials and antioxidants, phenol eugenol to be specific.

A study in 2017 revealed that around 25 participants who applied petroleum jelly followed by clove oil on rash prone areas show a reduction in symptoms compared to the group that used on petroleum jelly.

Having said that, not every pregnant woman gets these itchy rashes but those who get could use the above tips for relief purpose because these rashes could get itchy to hell and frustrate you to the core. But, be calm, this will pass off and there is not known effects to the fetus due to their occurrence as yet.

*Sourced from Internet

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The Role Of Legumes In Heart Health

We all know how a nutritious and balanced diet can help us live longer by keeping heart ailments at bay. A recent study carried out to find out the role of legumes in heart health reveals that legumes. Though it’s never been easy to know the benefits of food on an individual basis.

Five color legumes for healthy , Soy bean, Navy bean or white bean, Black beam, Red bean and Green bean,

But, recently researchers of the review called Advances in Nutrition took up the task of understanding the significance of legumes like lentils, peas and beans etc. around heart health.

Primarily, they focused on cardiovascular diseases like coronary heart disease, stroke, myocardial infarction besides looking into hypertension, obesity and diabetes. They chose cardiovascular diseases because it is one of the most common causes of mortality and even one of the most expensive ones. It is known to cause US 1 billion dollars a day.

They used the data analysis of Eurpoean Association which recently carried out a series of systematic reviews as well as meta-analysis for Diabetics study. The researchers hope that these results could be quite a help in updating the recommendations already made around the role of legumes in preventing as well as treating cardio-metabolic diseases.

The data review and comparison with people with lowest and highest intake of legumes revealed that dietary pulses that had legumes which either did or did not include other legumes did decrease coronary heart disease, obesity incidence and hypertension.

Though the researchers were able to find a positive relationship between intake of legumes in higher amounts and reduction in certain parameters related to cardiovascular risks, the conclusion they came to are muted relatively.

As per the researchers “The overall certainty of the evidence was graded as low for CVD incidence and ‘very low for all the other outcomes.”

Therefore, the co author of the study Dr Hana Kahleova said “ Americans eat less than one serving of legumes per day, on average. Simply adding more beans to our plates could be a powerful tool in fighting heart disease and bringing down blood pressure.

*Sourced from Internet

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Board Games Can Keep Cognitive Degradation At Bay – A Study

We all know that board games are a fun way to be engaged in play in doors particularly for kids. But, here’s some news. A new study carried out by the Researchers at Edinburgh university of United Kingdom reveals that board games could actually help Older Adults avert off their cognitive decline. The paper was authored by Drew Altschul of School of philosophy, Pscychology and Language sciences in association with Professor Deary, director of Edinburgh Lothian Birth Cohorts and published in the Journals of Gerontology.

FBHDTJ Still-life selection of board games (Monopoly, Chess, Cluedo, Scrabble) with playing cards and gambling chips

The study was carried out on 1091 subjects born in the year 1936 for assessment of their mental and cognitive capabilities. The researchers did the evaluation for cognitive functioning across ages 11, 70, 73, 79 with the help of 14 different standard cognitive tests.

The study included asking questions to participants in the age group of 70 and 76 about how many times across the week they indulged in board games like bingo, chess, crosswords, cards, bingo and more . The researchers also took into account confounding factors like education, early life cognitive function, activity levels, sex and health issues to name a few, as a part of their analysis.

The results unleashed that the people who were more into board games in their later year’s post 70’s were better off maintaining their cognitive functioning. Particularly those older adults who indulged in analog games post 70’s showed relative less decline in cognitive abilities across 11 and 70 years and also between the age of 70 and 79.

Altschul, one of the study leads says “ these latest findings add to evidence that being more engaged in activities during the life course might be associated with better thinking skills in later life”.

While coauthor thinks that there is a possibility that there is an interpretation of results as push to start playing board games and avoid cognitive decline.

*Sourced from Internet

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Early Signs Of Diabetes Type 2 You Must Not Ignore

Also known as the silent killer, diabetes can do a lot of damage if you do not manage to understand the early signs of it. Type 2 diabetes is a very common form of diabetes and is a result of lack of exercise and obesity.

Many a times your skin shows you the symptoms and it is preventable if you exercise and maintain normal weight. As per reports around 90% of cases of diabetes are apparently preventable if measures are taken on time. Furthermore, if diabetes type 2 is left untreated then it could also lead to life threatening health complications like heart attack, kidney failure and strokes.

So, why are the warning signs not taken seriously, is one question that haunts many. The reason could be as simple as not taking them as signs but simple health issues that could fade away with time or just taking notice and delaying checkup till it’s forgotten.

Well, let us run down some of the signs that could help you alert around type 2 diabetes.

  1. Frequent Washroom trips – high blood sugar means kidneys work hard to remove the excess sugar form the blood and hence it is considered to be an alarm for diabetes if one has to frequently wake up to go to pee.
  2. Frequent urge to drink water – Due to frequent urination, even the urge to drink water increases due to dehydration
  3. Fatigue – The energy levels of type 2 diabetes people are low due to deficiency of sugar through the blood stream to the body cells.
  4. Hunger pangs – Due to lack of energy people suffering from type 2 diabetes tend to feel hungry on a constant basis even if they’d have eaten recently enough
  5. Blurry Vision – At times high sugar could damage vision and result into blurred vision in one or both the eyes
  6. Yeast Infections – Excess sugar in body could lead to yeast infection. The affected areas could get red, sore or itchy.
  1. Tingling and Numbness – Due to rise in sugar levels people with this condition could experience tingling and numbess in their hands and feet. Known as neuropathy this condition has chances of worsening with time and hence early intervention is required.
  1. Skin Darkening – For people suffering from diabetes, dark, velvety and soft patches appear on skin anywhere around the armpits, groin or neck.

Perhaps, its not that difficult to be alarmed if we only pay attention at the signs. Early intervention could help deal with diabetes in a better way and also keep other life threatening conditions at bay.

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