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Category: Lifestyle

Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: Tips for Protecting Your Health

Many parts of the world are experiencing high temperatures and it is surpassing 40 degrees Celsius, much higher than usual. This heatwave is expected to persist for several days, with temperatures possibly reaching 42 degrees Celsius this month it is causing discomfort for many.

Extra care is advised for the elderly and children during this hot weather. It is best to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and stay indoors whenever possible to prevent heat-related illnesses. Heat stroke, in particular, poses a serious risk and can be fatal.

While it may seem refreshing, drinking ice-cold water after being in the heat is not recommended. It can shock the body and increase the risk of both colds and heat stroke. Instead, it’s better to drink water at a normal temperature gradually.

When the temperature climbs to 40 degrees Celsius, it’s crucial to avoid excessive consumption of cold water. Sudden intake of cold water can cause the blood vessels to constrict rapidly, increasing the chances of heat stroke.

When the outside temperature reaches 38°C, it’s advisable to seek shade and drink water at room temperature slowly. Washing hands with cold water immediately upon returning home is not recommended, as the body needs time to adjust to room temperature first.

It’s essential to drink water in small, regular amounts and avoid consuming juices too frequently. Plain water or bottled water is preferable to sugary drinks, which provide temporary relief but offer little nutritional value and can be harmful to the body.

In addition to beverages, it’s wise to avoid spicy and fried foods during hot weather. These foods can increase internal body temperature and lead to discomfort. Instead, opt for lighter, more hydrating meals to stay cool and healthy during the heatwave.

April 20, 2024
Japanese Diet: A Key to Better Brain Health for Women

Many people around the world are affected by cognitive decline and dementia which can cause problems with thinking and memory. Scientists predict that more people will have these issues as they get older. Some things that affect the risk of cognitive decline and dementia cannot be changed like having genes that make it more likely. But other things like smoking, being overweight and not exercising can be changed.

Researchers are interested in how food affects cognitive decline and dementia. They’ve studied diets like the Mediterranean diet, which seems to help keep the brain healthy. New research shows that following a traditional Japanese diet might also be good for the brain, especially for women.

The Traditional Japanese Diet

Japan is known for having many people who live a long time. One place in Japan Okinawa has a lot of people who are over 100 years old. The food they eat might be one reason why they live so long. The traditional Japanese diet includes foods like rice, fish, fruits (especially citrus fruits), miso (a kind of soybean paste), seaweed, pickles, green tea, soybeans, soybean sprouts, and mushrooms like shiitake. They don’t eat much red meat or coffee.

The Japanese diet isn’t something people do for a special reason like losing weight. It’s just what many Japanese people eat every day. Researchers looked at 1,636 Japanese adults aged 40 to 89. They asked them to write down everything they ate and drank for three days. They also took pictures of their meals.

Based on what they ate, the researchers put them into three groups: those who followed a traditional Japanese diet, those who followed a typical Western diet (with lots of refined carbs, fatty foods, soda, and alcohol), and those who ate a lot of plant foods (like grains, vegetables, fruits) and dairy.

The researchers also asked about other things that could affect brain health, like whether they smoked or exercised, and if they had health problems. They did brain scans on everyone to see if their brains were getting smaller, which can be a sign of cognitive decline and dementia.

Women who followed the traditional Japanese diet had less brain shrinkage over two years compared to women who followed the typical Western diet. But the diet didn’t seem to make a difference for men. There could be a few reasons for this. Women may benefit more from certain nutrients found in the Japanese diet, like magnesium and plant estrogens. Also, men were more likely to smoke and eat foods that aren’t part of the traditional Japanese diet which could be bad for their brains.

April 8, 2024
Stress-Reducing Snacks: 5 Foods for Relaxation

When stress hits you may skip the pizza and burgers and opt for these nutrient-packed snacks that not only satisfy cravings but also help ease tension. Comfort foods often tempt us during stressful times but indulging in calorie-rich treats like desserts, samosas, or cookies can worsen our mood and stress levels. While they may provide temporary relief, they can lead to long-term weight concerns. Choose snacks wisely by opting for nutrient-rich options such as almonds, berries, Greek yogurt, or makhana, which not only alleviate stress but also keep energy levels up.

Bananas
Bananas are a go-to stress-buster due to their rich nutrient content. It has enough potassium and they regulate blood pressure and promote steady heart function which makes them an ideal on-the-go snack.

Almonds
Almonds are essential for combating stress thanks to their nutrient density. Loaded with magnesium, they aid relaxation and stress reduction. Additionally, their high vitamin E content acts as an antioxidant, shielding the body from stress-induced damage.

Green Tea
Swap that extra cup of coffee for a soothing cup of green tea. Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid known for its stress-relieving properties. Sipping on green tea can provide a calming effect, helping you unwind during tense moments.

Seasonal Berries and Fruits
You can try seasonal berries and fruits which are rich in Vitamin C to combat stress. Oranges, grapefruit, watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are loaded with antioxidants that not only reduce stress and anxiety but also uplift mood, leaving you feeling refreshed.

Makhana
Makhana, or fox nuts are a nutritious snacking option packed with essential micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. They also contain antioxidant compounds like gallic acid and epicatechin which reduce inflammation and protect against stress and other health issues. Roasted makhana paired with ghee-roasted almonds makes for a satisfying and stress-relieving snack.

April 1, 2024
Moving Towards Wellness: Embracing Physical Activity for a Healthier Life

In the new year, people often make resolutions to improve their health. Many wonder about the best exercise for staying healthy, but there isn’t a single “best” exercise, says Emmanuel Stamatakis from the University of Sydney.

What’s important is that regular physical activity, in any form, brings long-term health benefits. You don’t have to do intense workouts like bodybuilding or marathons. Simple activities like biking, raking leaves, or playing with your kids can make a difference.

The idea is to find something you enjoy and will stick with. It’s about moving your body, not about following a specific exercise routine.

Studies over the years have shown that physical activity is linked to better health and a longer life. Even small amounts of activity can be helpful. You don’t have to do a lot to start seeing benefits. Wearable technology has helped scientists understand the importance of daily movements. Tracking devices can measure steps, heart rate, and activity levels, showing how movement affects health.

Recent research has found that even incidental activity, like taking the stairs or walking to catch a train, can lower the risk of death. Short bursts of activity throughout the day can add up and improve overall health. The U.S. physical activity guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. But even if you don’t meet these guidelines, any amount of movement is better than none.

Physical activity can lower the risk of common health problems like diabetes and infections. It’s never too late to start being active. Studies have shown that older adults who exercise regularly have a lower risk of dying. Even small amounts of exercise can make a big difference in health outcomes.

The key is to find activities that you enjoy and can incorporate into your daily life. You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership to be active. Simple activities like walking, gardening, or dancing can have significant health benefits.

March 8, 2024
Non-communicable diseases: The Importance of Nutrition and Lifestyle

Adolescence is a crucial time in life, where habits formed can impact future health. Health experts emphasize the role of nutrition and healthy living in preventing diseases among teenagers. According to Dr. Rajeev Gupta, a leading expert, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is vital for adolescents. These foods provide essential nutrients for growth, physical activity, cognitive function, and emotional well-being.

Regular physical activity is also crucial in reducing the risk of diseases. Engaging in activities like sports, yoga, or brisk walking promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens bones, and improves mental well-being. These activities help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the chances of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Dr. Gupta warns against the harmful effects of unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as excessive consumption of sugary beverages and processed foods, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle spent in front of screens. These habits can lead to various non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Empowering adolescents with knowledge about nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices is essential. By encouraging informed decision-making, lifelong habits that promote overall health can be instilled.

Dr. Nalini Saligram, Founder and CEO at Arogya World, emphasizes the importance of prevention through lifestyle changes in combating the rising prevalence of diseases like diabetes among young Indians.

Dr. Saligram suggests intervening in early adolescence to address risk factors before unhealthy habits are entrenched. Utilizing engaging educational tools and activities can help children learn about healthy eating habits and the importance of balanced meals.

She encourages adolescents to champion healthy eating by making informed food choices and reducing the consumption of unhealthy snacks and junk food. Encouraging outdoor play is also essential for promoting physical activity and overall health.

By prioritizing nutrition and healthy lifestyles, adolescents can safeguard their future health and well-being, contributing to a productive and healthier next generation workforce.

Source: Hindustan Times

February 19, 2024
Enhancing Well-being: The Nutritional Value of Pomegranate

Pomegranate is a beloved fruit enjoyed by people of all ages. It not only boasts a delightful taste and vibrant color but also offers numerous health benefits due to its rich nutritional content.

This fruit is renowned for its various health properties, such as boosting appetite, promoting body softness, increasing fat and strength, relieving indigestion, alleviating shortness of breath, soothing coughs, and combating rheumatism.

Heart disease is a prevalent concern, often exacerbated by a diet high in oils and fatty foods. Pomegranate juice facilitates the rapid delivery of oxygen to muscles, while regular consumption of currant juice helps cleanse fatty deposits from arteries, maintaining arterial health. The antioxidants present in currants aid in managing blood cholesterol levels, making daily pomegranate consumption a potent preventive measure against heart issues.

Pomegranate also boasts numerous benefits for skin health. Pomegranate or currant oil serves as an effective moisturizer and guards against bacterial skin infections. Furthermore, the folic acid, vitamin C, citric acid, and tannins found in pomegranates contribute to overall skin health.

The cartilage fluid present in bone joints acts as a cushion for bones. Pomegranate’s potassium and polyphenols are invaluable in preventing cartilage diseases and alleviating various bone ailments such as osteoporosis.

With its potassium and fiber content, pomegranate plays a crucial role in bolstering the immune system, making pomegranate juice an effective remedy for warding off colds.

Furthermore, pomegranate’s antioxidants help prevent plaque buildup on teeth and mitigate gum diseases like gingivitis. Incorporating a small amount of pomegranate into daily diet promotes dental health.

Pomegranate and currants offer a plethora of health benefits, ranging from boosting immunity to promoting cardiovascular health and enhancing skin vitality. Regular consumption of these fruits can significantly contribute to overall well-being and vitality.

February 8, 2024
Healthy Living: Seven Habits to Incorporate into Your Daily Routine

Some people have habits that are not good for their health. They might not sleep enough, drink enough water, or eat unhealthy food. But it’s important to know that these habits can harm your body.

Today, we’ll talk about seven habits that are good for your health. First, try to sleep for eight hours every night. Go to bed at the same time every day to make it a habit.

Second, drink eight to ten glasses of water each day. Carry a water bottle when you go out to remember to drink enough water regularly.

Third, spending time in the sunlight is good for your mental health. Try to get at least ten minutes of sunlight between 6 am and 9 am every day.

Fourth, sugar is not good for your body or skin. Try to avoid sugary foods and drinks for a month. Instead, drink tea or coffee without sugar.

Fifth, try to exercise at least three days a week. You can go to the gym, exercise at home, or simply take a walk outside.

Sixth, reading for thirty minutes a day can make your brain work better. Choose a book you like and read for half an hour every day.

Seventh, try to meditate for at least ten minutes a day. Find a quiet place in your home and practice meditation. You can do it right after waking up to prepare your body and mind for the day ahead.

February 1, 2024
Soft and Fluffy Pita Bread: A Simple Recipe for Success!

If you want tasty pita bread better than what you buy, try making it yourself! You can bake them in the oven and watch them puff up like clouds, or cook them in a skillet for soft and fluffy flatbread. This easy recipe has lots of tips to help you along the way. These homemade pitas turn out soft and fluffy. When you bake them, they create the perfect pocket for filling with hummus, falafel, and more.

We’ve been searching for a great pita bread recipe for a while, and we found it. This recipe swaps baking powder for yeast, making the pita taste amazing and helping create that airy pocket. With just a few simple ingredients like flour, warm water, instant yeast, sugar, and salt, you can make fluffy, soft pita bread ready for sandwiches or dipping.

To make pita bread with a nice pocket, we need yeast. Activate it by mixing warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes until it froths and bubbles. Then gradually add flour and salt, gently knead the dough in the bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for an hour until it doubles.

Once the dough has doubled, divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball, then flatten into disks. Use your fingers to flatten the dough gently to keep as many air bubbles as possible. Let the dough rest, and then you’re ready to cook them.

You can cook pita bread in two ways: in a skillet on the stove or bake them in the oven. The skillet makes soft pita without a big pocket, like what you see at Greek restaurants. If you want a big, tall pocket, bake them instead. To cook pita bread on the stove, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, add some oil, and then cook the pitas until they’re blistered on both sides and cooked in the middle.

To bake pita bread in the oven, preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C). A hot oven is key to getting that pocket. Cook the pita bread on a pizza steel or baking sheet until they puff up and turn light brown around the edges. You can store pita bread at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To warm it up, bake it in a 350°F oven, wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave it, or heat it in a dry skillet on the stove.

If you’re having trouble getting your pita bread to puff up, make sure you’re using active yeast and that your oven is preheated for at least 30 minutes. Stovetop pita bread is delicious but less likely to puff up. For the best chance of achieving a pita pocket, bake them in a preheated oven.

You can fill your homemade pita bread with all sorts of delicious things! Try hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki, spinach artichoke dip, labneh, falafel, grilled chicken, veggies, seared halloumi cheese, roasted red pepper hummus, or smashed chickpea salad. Making your own pita bread is fun, easy, and delicious.

January 27, 2024
Rise of Hybrid Workforce: Essential Skills for Remote Work Success in 2024

2024’s work world is like a jungle with office desks. It’s an exciting adventure called “Hybrid Work,” where having the right skills makes you free man of your remote system. So, what’s this hybrid work all about? It’s a mix of working from home and going to the office, like having two work homes. Thriving in both takes practice, and these essential skills are your survival kit for the hybrid work system:

You have to learn to manage your schedule like a master chef, juggling deadlines, meetings, and even laundry breaks. Think to-do lists, calendar magic, and saying “no” sometimes. your time-taming skills will make you the ruler of your schedule.

In the office, face-to-face chats are easy. At home, it’s all emails and video calls. Learn to write clear emails, give presentations online, and master small talk on Zoom. Your communication skills bridge the gap between desks and screens.

Distractions are everywhere, from barking dogs to tempting Netflix. Learn to laser-focus like a flamingo on one leg. Consider noise-canceling headphones, work zones, and time-blocking techniques; your focus skills turn you into a productivity powerhouse.

Relax, computers aren’t taking over yet. But learning basic tech skills is smart. Think video conferencing tools, file sharing platforms, and maybe even basic coding. Working from home can feel lonely. Learn to motivate yourself like a monkey swinging from tree to tree. Consider setting mini-goals, rewarding yourself, and joining online communities. Your self-motivation skills keep you energized.

You have to learn to understand and respect colleagues’ work styles. Consider flexible schedules, virtual coffee breaks, and checking in on well-being; your empathy skills make the hybrid jungle welcoming for everyone.

You need to learn to create healthy boundaries. Consider designated work hours, unplugging after work, and taking vacations. Your work-life balance skills keep you happy and healthy.

Avoid burnout in the blurred lines of work and life. Be a mental wellness warrior. Learn to set boundaries, take breaks, disconnect after work, and prioritize well-being. Consider ending your day with a mindful walk, getting a good night’s sleep.

In the hybrid work jungle, these skills are your vines, helping you swing effortlessly between home and office. With time management, communication, focus, tech skills, self-motivation, empathy, work-life balance, and mental wellness, you’ll not only survive but thrive in the exciting adventure of hybrid work.

January 1, 2024
Simple Ways to Keep Your Mind Fresh and Focused

Many of us turn to meditation to give our minds a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, traditional methods don’t always do the trick because our minds tend to stay active. In today’s article, we’ll explore alternative techniques to train your brain and keep it sharp.

Take a Stroll Outdoors

A refreshing walk outside can do wonders for your mental well-being. Pay attention to your surroundings – the sounds, the sights. Focusing on the present moment helps divert your mind from distractions and brings a sense of peace.

Find Inspiration in Nature

Nature has a calming and beautiful quality. Watching the sunrise or listening to birds chirping can bring tranquility to your heart. Even a few moments of gazing at the sky and trees can uplift your mood.

Express Yourself Through Drawing

Engage in the art of drawing to soothe your heart and concentrate on the task at hand. This method effectively keeps your focus on the present moment. If anxiety troubles you, expressing your thoughts through drawing can bring a sense of calm.

Read and Reflect with Pen and Paper

Take a few minutes each night to jot down your thoughts and feelings in a notebook. This practice offers clarity about your surroundings and helps you manage your emotions. Set aside five minutes before bedtime for this reflective exercise.

Escape into the World of Movies

If you find it hard to concentrate on a specific task, take a break and immerse yourself in a movie. The captivating storyline can divert your mind from distractions, allowing you to enjoy the movie and take a mental break. Incorporating these simple practices into your routine can contribute to a fresh and focused mind. Experiment with each technique and discover what works best for you in maintaining mental clarity amidst life’s busyness.

December 4, 2023